Four-day arogya fair evokes overwhelming response

Ganta says alternative medicine systems provide permanent solution to ailments

Soothing effect: Minister for HRD Ganta Srinivasa Rao giving away the first prize to the best stall to representatives of Herabalife in Visakhapatnam on Monday.

The overwhelming response to the four-day ‘National Arogya Fair-2017’ is an indication of the growing patronage of Indian systems of medicine by the people, Minister for HRD Ganta Srinivasa Rao has said.

Participating as a chief guest at the valedictory of the ‘National Arogya Fair-2017’, being organised jointly by the PHD Chamber and the Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy), at the Andhra University Engineering College (AUCE) Grounds here on Monday, the Minister said that alternative medicine systems like Ayurveda and Homoeopathy could provide a permanent solution to many ailments without any side-effects.

While Allopathy could provide immediate relief, at times it produces side-effects.

He said it was unfortunate that Indian systems of medicine have been neglected for long and now foreigners were evincing keen interest in them.

70 exhibitors

Highlighting the priority being given to health by the State government, Mr. Srinivasa Rao said that ₹7,020 crore was earmarked for health in the budget this year and briefed about the programmes being undertaken for the welfare of the people. Principal Director of PHD Chamber, Vivek Seigell said that 70 exhibitors from all over India had participated in the fair and showcased their products.

Over 50,000 people had visited the fair during the last three days, which was the highest at any Arogya fair held in the country so far. On Sunday alone, 31,000 people had visited the stalls and 12,000 out patients were examined by the doctors.

The best stalls at the fair judged on their ambience and maximum number of visitors were given away prizes by the Minister.