Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Sunday underlined the growing relevance of naturopathy and yoga in tackling lifestyle diseases, urging people to adopt a balanced, nature-aligned way of life.
Addressing the 81st Foundation Day of Nisargopachar Ashram in Pune, he said the institution reflected Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of simple, disciplined living in harmony with nature.
Describing the ashram as “a philosophy and a way of life”, Radhakrishnan said health should be seen as a state of complete physical, mental and spiritual well-being, not merely the absence of disease. He flagged the rising burden of non-communicable diseases and called for a focus on preventive healthcare through balanced nutrition, regular physical activity and mental well-being.
Drawing from his tenure as Governor in Jharkhand and Maharashtra, the Vice-President pointed to the enduring value of indigenous healing practices among tribal communities, describing them as part of India’s civilisational knowledge systems. He said traditional medicine systems have gained global traction in recent years, citing government efforts under Prime Minister Narendra Modi to promote AYUSH and wellness tourism.
Radhakrishnan said yoga and naturopathy should be seen as complementary to modern medicine, not alternatives. In a fast-paced, material-driven world, he added, lasting fulfilment comes from balance and inner peace.
Calling for a “Swasth Bharat” alongside the goal of a developed India, he said institutions like the ashram would play a key role in shaping a healthier society. He also paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi and Manibhai Desai, and released a book authored by Dr Narayan Hegde on the occasion.
Among those present were Maharashtra Governor Jishnu Dev Varma, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar and Legislative Council Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe.
