The 9th International Health & Wellness Expo (IHWE) 2026 opened at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, bringing together experts, policymakers, healthcare professionals and industry stakeholders to discuss the growing role of AYUSH, traditional medicine, preventive healthcare and integrated wellness.
Organised by Namo Gange Trust, the three-day expo is being held from August 21 to 23 alongside the 18th Arogya Sangoshthi. The opening day featured discussions on evidence-based traditional medicine, scientific research, professional standards and the integration of traditional healthcare systems with modern medicine.
“The Future Belongs to AYUSH”
Addressing the inaugural session, Prof. (Dr.) Mahesh Kumar Dadhich, CEO of the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), Ministry of AYUSH, said, “The future belongs to AYUSH.” He highlighted the sector’s growth potential, noting that while several sectors are growing at around 7–8%, the AYUSH sector is witnessing growth of nearly 17-18%.
He also emphasised the potential of medicinal plants and natural health resources and called for their effective utilisation.
Experts Call for Evidence-Based Traditional Medicine
The inaugural sessions focused on strengthening Ayurveda and other traditional systems through scientific research, evidence-based clinical practices, quality education and professional standards.
Prof. Mahesh Vyas, Dean (Ph.D.), All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), highlighted the need to strengthen research and education in Ayurveda. Prof. (Dr.) Atul Varshney, Member, Board of Ayurveda, NCISM, discussed Ayurveda education, clinical practice and its evolving role in contemporary healthcare.
The Homoeopathy sessions featured Dr. Tarkeshwar Jain, Chairperson, National Commission for Homoeopathy, and Dr. Harcharan Jeet Kaur, President, Board of Ethics and Registration for Homoeopathy. Discussions centred on education, ethics, professional standards and quality healthcare delivery.
Moksh Sewa Initiative Launched
A key highlight of the opening day was the launch of Moksh Sewa by Mrs. Srujena and Mr. Vishwa. The initiative aims to promote care, dignity, service and social responsibility as part of a broader approach to holistic wellbeing.
The launch was attended by experts, delegates and visitors participating in the expo.
Expo Brings Together 100+ Exhibitors
According to the organisers, IHWE 2026 features more than 100 national and international exhibitors, 150+ expert speakers, over 10,000 expected visitors and more than 1,000 buyers.
The exhibition showcases products, technologies and services spanning Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy, medical technology, nutraceuticals, herbal and organic products, medical devices, digital health, diagnostics, healthcare startups and wellness.
Focus on AI, Digital Health and Preventive Care
The second and third days of IHWE 2026 will feature the Healthcare Innovation Summit, Global Wellness Leadership Forum and Wellness & AYUSH Leadership Forum.
Sessions will explore emerging areas including artificial intelligence in healthcare, digital health, preventive medicine, integrated healthcare, nutrition, wellness tourism and AYUSH.
Vijay Sharma, Chairman, Namo Gange Trust, said the expo aims to facilitate knowledge exchange, innovation, business collaboration, investment and global partnerships while strengthening India’s position in AYUSH, traditional medicine and holistic healthcare.
