Silchar becomes North-east India's first Unani medicine centre

In a significant development for traditional medicine in the Northeast, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated the new complex of the Regional Research Institute of Unani Medicine (RRIUM) in Silchar, Assam on Sunday. The institute, the first of its kind in the region focusing on Unani medicine within the Ayush systems, is poised to contribute to healthcare and research.

The sprawling complex, covering 3.5 acres, was constructed with an investment of Rs 48 crore and was developed by the National Projects Construction Corporation (NPCC), a government of India enterprise. The institute has been handed over to the Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM), an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Ayush.

During the inauguration ceremony, Minister Sonowal emphasized the growing acceptance of Ayush system of medicine, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic. He stated, "The effectiveness of the Ayush system of medicine in enhancing the quality of life of people is a proven fact, and that's why we are working on a medical system where the best of contemporary medicines can be supplemented with the traditional medicinal practices of Ayush."

Minister Sonowal also highlighted the global significance of Unani medicine, describing it as one of the most celebrated traditional medicines not only in India but also in other countries. He expressed pride in the establishment of the state-of-the-art institute in Silchar, emphasizing its role in providing effective treatment and improving the quality of life for the region's residents.

The RRIUM in Silchar is poised to offer a wide range of patient care services while conducting research on various aspects of Unani medicine. It will particularly focus on diseases more prevalent in the Northeast, addressing the unique healthcare needs of the local population.

Moreover, the institute is equipped to screen patients for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiac issues, pulmonary conditions, stroke, cancer, and diabetes. In a special initiative targeting children, the center will conduct health check-ups for school children, providing effective treatment to those in need.

The inauguration of this cutting-edge institute marks a significant step forward in bridging modern and traditional medicine, reinforcing the commitment to holistic healthcare solutions in the region. The RRIUM is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing research, patient care, and medical outreach, setting a benchmark for Unani medicine in the Northeast.