The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, inaugurated the National Arogya Fair 2026 at Shegaon in Buldhana district of Maharashtra on 25 February 2026. The four-day national event is organised by the Ministry of Ayush in collaboration with the All India Ayurvedic Congress.
The Fair aims to promote India’s traditional systems of medicine and holistic healthcare by bringing together policymakers, researchers, practitioners, farmers, industry representatives and citizens on a common platform.
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Key Facts for UPSC & State PCS (Prelims)
- Event: National Arogya Fair 2026
- Location: Shegaon, Buldhana, Maharashtra
- Organised by: Ministry of Ayush & All India Ayurvedic Congress
- Duration: Four days
- Source: PIB Delhi (25 February 2026)
President of India’s Key Observations
The President stated that in Indian tradition, it is said “Aarogyam Paramam Sukham”, meaning good health is the greatest happiness. She emphasised that healthy citizens are essential for nation-building.
She highlighted the role of Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa and Homoeopathy in preventive, promotive and curative healthcare.
According to the President, Ayush systems offer a comprehensive lifestyle framework based on balanced diet, daily and seasonal regimens, yoga, meditation and natural therapies, which are essential for long-term wellbeing.
Medicinal Plants and Sustainable Healthcare
The President highlighted India’s rich heritage of medicinal plants and stressed the importance of conservation and scientific cultivation. Strengthening the raw material base would support sustainable healthcare, enhance farmers’ income and protect the environment.
Views of the Governor of Maharashtra
The Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Acharya Devvrat, described Ayurveda as a timeless scientific tradition established by India’s ancient Rishis. He emphasised that preventive healthcare is superior to curative healthcare and urged practitioners to ensure authenticity and quality in traditional medicines.
National Arogya Fair as a “Mahakumbh” of Ayush
The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, described the National Arogya Fair as a “Mahakumbh of Indian traditional medicine systems”. The Fair acts as a national platform connecting policymakers, researchers, farmers, industry representatives and practitioners.
The Minister stated that the Ministry of Ayush is focusing on evidence-based research, scientific validation, standardisation and quality assurance to enhance the global credibility of Ayush systems.
Ayush Tourism and Economic Potential
Highlighting Ayush tourism, the Minister stated that India can become the “Crown of the World” in holistic wellness. Ayurveda, Yoga and natural therapies can position India as a global wellness destination while generating employment and strengthening rural economies.
Role of Maharashtra Government
Shri Makarand Jadhav Patil, Minister for Relief and Rehabilitation, Government of Maharashtra, stated that hosting the Fair in Shegaon is a matter of pride for Maharashtra. The Fair provides free consultations, medicine distribution, expert lectures and opportunities for medicinal plant farmers.
Institutional Perspective
Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, stated that Arogya Melas play a crucial role in public awareness, public engagement and showcasing authentic Ayush practices. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to research advancement, quality assurance and global collaboration.
Lifetime Ayurvedic Gaurav Samman 2026
The President conferred the Lifetime Ayurvedic Gaurav Samman upon eminent practitioners for their exceptional contributions to Ayurveda and public health.
- Vaidya Devendra Triguna
- Vaidya Rakesh Sharma
- Dr. Ashutosh Gupta
- Dr. Manisha Kotekar
- P. M. Varier
- Dr. Ramdas
Relevance for UPSC & State PCS Examination
This event is important due to its relevance to government health initiatives, traditional medicine promotion, sustainable development, medicinal plant economy and Ayush tourism.
For the Mains examination, it can be used in answers related to public health policy, preventive healthcare, indigenous knowledge systems and holistic development.
Conclusion
The National Arogya Fair 2026 reflects India’s integrated approach towards healthcare by combining traditional wisdom with modern scientific standards. It strengthens holistic wellbeing, supports rural livelihoods and reinforces India’s vision of becoming a global leader in wellness and sustainable healthcare.
Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB), Government of India

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