India will host the WHO–IRCH Herbal Medicine Safety Workshop from Aug 6–8, 2025, in Ghaziabad, focusing on global regulations, safety, and traditional medicine integration.
Global Workshop on Herbal Medicine Safety and Regulations
India is set to host the prestigious WHO–International Regulatory Cooperation for Herbal Medicines (IRCH) Workshop from August 6 to 8, 2025, at Hotel Fortune District Centre in Ghaziabad. The event, organized by the Ministry of Ayush in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and supported by the Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine & Homoeopathy (PCIM&H), aims to enhance global regulatory capacity for herbal medicines.
Global Participation and Inauguration
The workshop will be inaugurated by Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, and Dr. Kim Sungchol, Chairperson, WHO–IRCH. Delegates from countries like Bhutan, Brunei, Cuba, Ghana, Indonesia, Japan, Nepal, Paraguay, Poland, Sri Lanka, Uganda, and Zimbabwe will participate in person, while Brazil, Egypt, and the USA will join virtually.
Key Objectives of the Workshop
- Fostering international collaboration in herbal medicine regulation.
- Enhancing safety and efficacy mechanisms for herbal products.
- Supporting regulatory convergence across countries.
- Strengthening traditional medicine systems worldwide.
- Promoting integration of herbal medicine into public health systems.
Workshop Highlights
- Review of WHO–IRCH Working Groups 1 and 3.
- Scientific sessions on pre-clinical research and regulatory frameworks.
- Safety case studies with a focus on Ashwagandha.
- Hands-on training in herbal drug identification and chemo-profiling.
Ayush Suraksha Programme
An essential feature of the workshop is the introduction of the Ayush Suraksha (Pharmacovigilance) Programme to enhance safety monitoring for traditional medicines, ensuring their effectiveness and purity.
Exposure to India’s Integrative Health Ecosystem
Delegates will visit PCIM&H for quality control, NIUM for Unani medicine practices, and AIIA for Ayurvedic research, gaining insights into India’s integrative health practices.
Global Significance
The workshop offers a global platform for regulators, scientists, and traditional medicine practitioners to align safety standards, share practices, and discuss the future of herbal medicine regulation, vital for public safety and trust.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- India to host WHO–IRCH Herbal Medicine Safety Workshop in Ghaziabad.
- Key objectives include fostering international collaboration and promoting integration of herbal medicine into public health systems.
- The workshop focuses on enhancing safety mechanisms, regulatory convergence, and strengthening traditional medicine systems.
- Delegates from various countries will participate to align safety standards and discuss the future of herbal medicine regulation.
