Speaking at the 2nd Convocation Ceremony of Tapovana Ayurvedic Medical College and Hospital at Doddanere near Davanagere on Saturday, the Governor said India's medical heritage is among the oldest and richest in the world.
Congratulating the graduating students, Gehlot said the convocation marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. "This achievement is the result of your hard work, the guidance of your teachers, and the sacrifices and support of your parents and family members," he said.
The Governor noted that Ayurveda is not merely a system of treatment but a way of life that promotes holistic well-being. He said India's ancient sages had understood thousands of years ago that health is not just the condition of the body but a balance of the body, mind and soul.
Highlighting the growing importance of traditional healthcare systems, Gehlot said that Yoga and Naturopathy teach people to live in harmony with nature. Yoga is not merely physical exercise but a path to self-discipline, mental peace and spiritual growth, he added.
The Governor observed that the healthcare sector is undergoing unprecedented transformation due to modern technology, artificial intelligence, digital health services and scientific research. In such a scenario, he urged the graduating students to serve as a bridge between traditional knowledge and modern science.
Emphasizing the need for evidence-based practice, he said the effectiveness of Ayurveda and Yoga must be strengthened through scientific research and documentation. He encouraged students to become researchers, innovators and leaders in society, in addition to being healthcare professionals.
Describing medical service as one of the noblest forms of human and divine service, Gehlot said doctors possess not only medicines but also compassion, sensitivity and trust. "Often, patients need kind words and a positive attitude even before they need medicine," he remarked.
The Governor said the Ministry of AYUSH is actively promoting traditional systems of healthcare, including Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani and Homoeopathy. He also highlighted the establishment of the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine in Jamnagar, Gujarat, which aims to integrate ancient knowledge systems such as Ayurveda and Yoga with modern science and expand their global acceptance.
Appreciating the efforts of Tapovana Chairman Dr. Shashikumar V. Meharawade and his team in promoting Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Gehlot said a healthy nation can only be built by healthy citizens. He expressed confidence that the graduating students would play a significant role in realizing the vision of "Viksit Bharat 2047."
Rajya Sabha Member Narayan Sa Bhandage, KSOU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sharanappa V. Halse, former Dean of Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences Dr. Srinivas Bannigol, Tapovana Chairman Dr. Shashikumar V. Meharawade, faculty members, students and parents were present on the occasion.
