NISR to launch new healthcare facility in Arunachal Pradesh

Leh, Aug 11 (PTI) - The National Institute of Sowa Rigpa (NISR), an autonomous organization focused on the traditional Himalayan system of medicine, is gearing up to launch a healthcare facility in Arunachal Pradesh, as confirmed by a senior official. With five years under its belt since inception, this institute, operating under the Ministry of Ayush, is now enrolling its fifth group of students in its undergraduate program.

Sowa Rigpa, acknowledged by the Government of India as part of the traditional medical systems under the Ministry of Ayush, has a dedicated national institute akin to other disciplines managed by the ministry. NISR was announced by Prime Minister in 2019, and following requisite approvals, began operations in 2020, according to NISR Director Padma Gurmet in an interview here.

This ancient medical tradition, known as 'Sowa-Rigpa' or 'knowledge of healing' in the Bhoti language, is prevalent in Himalayan regions such as Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh (Spiti and Lahoul), Jammu and Kashmir, West Bengal (Darjeeling), Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim. The practice extends into certain areas of China, Mongolia, Nepal, Russia, and Bhutan as well.

An Institute official emphasized the primary goals of NISR are the provision of quality education in Sowa Rigpa, engaging in scientific research, and enhancing public health across the Himalayan region. The swift progress of NISR is highlighted by the launch of its five-year undergraduate program just a year after its establishment.

The National Commission for Indian System of Medicine administers the NEET examination for entry into NISR's Bachelor of Sowa Rigpa Medicine and Surgery program. "In our inaugural year, 10 pioneering students were enrolled and are set to graduate next year. The fifth cohort of students has been admitted this year, selected through their performance in the national-level entrance examination," said the director.

Speaking on NISR's expansion strategies, Gurmet detailed the institute's ongoing outreach activities, including seminars and conferences in locations like Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim. "Our next steps include setting up a healthcare operation in Arunachal Pradesh, targeted for completion in two to three months. Post that, efforts will focus on launching another campus in Sikkim," he remarked.

Updating on infrastructure developments, the director noted rapid advancements with a Rs 40 crore allocation from the central government for the initial phase of construction. New academic facilities are underway, while hostels and a new hospital are planned, aiming for completion in three to four years.

Gurmet stressed the importance of sufficient staffing to operate the institute and its services, mentioning that 49 positions across teaching, laboratory, and support roles have been sanctioned, with a second phase of recruitment in progress.

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