5 August 2024: The Gujarat Chapter of All India Unani Tibbi Congress convened a meeting at Umargi General Hospital in Vapi, under the leadership of Dr. Akbar U. Shirgaonker, President of AIUTC Gujarat. The assembly urged the Gujarat government to formulate policies to promote and develop Unani medicine, similar to Ayurveda.
Dr. Akbar Shirgaonker highlighted that numerous attempts have been made to engage with the Gujarat government for the advancement of Unani medicine. However, the lack of a dedicated officer for Unani medicine in the AYUSH department has resulted in their proposals being dismissed during planning phases. Consequently, Unani medicine remains largely neglected at the state level in Gujarat.
Last year, a memorandum was submitted to Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, the Central Secretary of AYUSH, seeking support for the promotion and development of Unani medicine in Gujarat. Dr. Shirgaonker recalled the assurance given by Kotecha that efforts would be made towards this cause.
Dr. Mohsin Jamal Shaikh addressed the absence of a single Unani medical college in Gujarat, emphasizing that the revival of Unani medicine in the state hinges on the establishment of such an institution. He urged the attendees to prioritize the creation of a Unani medical college.
Dr. Mubarak Hussain Alig proposed that initial efforts should focus on securing land and establishing a Unani hospital, which would pave the way for the medical college. Dr. Wasim Rahman concurred with Dr. Shaikh’s suggestion, advocating for continuous engagement with the Gujarat government and ensuring the appointment of Unani medical officers.
Further contributions came from Dr. Shoaib Alam and Dr. Anwarul Islam Malik, who supported the idea of forming a trust dedicated to promoting Unani medicine and facilitating the establishment of a medical college.
The event also saw the welcoming of Dr. Syed Ahmed Khan, Secretary General of the All India Unani Tibbi Congress, and a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Anwarul Islam Malik to all participants.
