The controversy surrounding Turkish President Erdogan's reconversion of the Hagia Sophia into a mosque in 2020 is a complex and multifaceted issue, with various critics citing concerns over the historical significance of the site, its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the perceived religious undertones of the decision.

The Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine cathedral and Ottoman mosque, has a rich and diverse history, having served as a church for 916 years before its conquest and subsequent conversion into a mosque in 1453.

The site's historical significance is further underscored by its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a status it has held since 1985.

In 2020, Erdogan signed a decree converting the Hagia Sophia into a mosque, a move that was widely criticized by international leaders, including the Pope, who expressed grief over the decision.

The Greek Orthodox Church also decried the conversion, with the Patriarch warning of a negative reaction in the Orthodox world.

Critics have argued that Erdogan's decision was motivated by a desire to promote his Islamist agenda and shore up his conservative support base.

The move has been seen as erasing the multiculturalism of the site, with Erdogan's actions being viewed as a means of promoting his Islamo-nationalist ideology.

The decision has also been criticized for its perceived religious undertones, with some arguing that it represents an attempt to impose Islamic values on a site with a rich and diverse cultural heritage.

In addition to the criticism from international leaders, the decision has also been met with opposition from within Turkey, with some arguing that it represents a threat to the country's secular identity.

The conversion of the Hagia Sophia has also been accompanied by the conversion of other historical sites, including the Chora Church, which was converted into a mosque in 2020.

The Chora Church, also known as the Kariye Mosque, is a 4th-century Byzantine construction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its fine mosaics and frescoes.

The conversion of these sites has been met with widespread criticism, with many arguing that it represents a loss of cultural heritage and a threat to the country's multicultural identity.

The Turkish government has defended the decision, arguing that it is a means of promoting democracy and preserving the country's cultural heritage.

However, critics have argued that the decision is a politically motivated move, designed to consolidate Erdogan's power and promote his Islamist agenda.

The controversy surrounding the Hagia Sophia has also raised concerns about the preservation of the site, with some arguing that the conversion has put the site's historical and cultural significance at risk.

The site has undergone extensive restoration work, with 21 million visitors having visited the site since its conversion into a mosque.

However, concerns have been raised about the impact of large crowds on the site, with fragments having fallen from the dome due to humidity and crowd pressure.

The Turkish government has implemented a visitor management policy, and an entrance fee has been charged to foreign tourists in an effort to preserve the site.

Despite these efforts, the controversy surrounding the Hagia Sophia remains a highly contentious issue, with many arguing that the decision represents a threat to the site's cultural and historical significance.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site designation of the Hagia Sophia and other historical sites in Turkey has also been cited as a reason for the controversy, with many arguing that the conversion of these sites represents a threat to the country's cultural heritage.

In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the Hagia Sophia is a complex and multifaceted issue, with various critics citing concerns over the historical significance of the site, its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the perceived religious undertones of the decision.

The decision has been widely criticized, with many arguing that it represents a threat to the site's cultural and historical significance, as well as the country's multicultural identity.

As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the Turkish government will address the concerns of critics and preserve the cultural and historical significance of the Hagia Sophia.

The international community has also been critical of the decision, with many arguing that it represents a threat to the principles of multiculturalism and secularism.

The Greek PM has criticized the conversion of the Chora Church as offensive to history, and the US, Russia, and Orthodox Christian institutions have also expressed their criticism of the decision.

The Turkish Directorate of Religion's caretaking of the Hagia Sophia has also been criticized, with many arguing that it is inadequate and threatens the site's cultural and historical significance.

The artwork of human figures in the Hagia Sophia, including mosaics of Jesus and Mary, have been covered with curtains, as they are forbidden in Islamic places of prayer.

The Historic Imperial Gate of the Hagia Sophia was damaged in 2022, further highlighting the need for preservation and protection of the site.

Overall, the controversy surrounding the Hagia Sophia is a complex issue that requires careful consideration and preservation of the site's cultural and historical significance.

The controversy surrounding Turkish President Erdogan's reconversion of the Hagia Sophia into a mosque in 2020 is a complex and multifaceted issue, with various critics citing concerns over the historical significance of the site, its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the perceived religious undertones of the decision.

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Content: Turkey’s iconic Hagia Sophia mosque to charge $28 entry fee for tourists

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Turkey’s Hagia Sophia mosque began charging tourists nearly $28 on Monday for entrance to the landmark site.

The UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its blue-tiled interior, will no longer allow free admission to foreigners, the Turkish tourism ministry announced.

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The former museum-turned mosque has a new entrance in front of the Topkapi Palace Museum open for tourists.

Tunnel entrance at Turkey's Hagia Sophia. (File photo)

The Hagia Sophia was a museum space from 1934 until 2020 when Turkey decided to change it to a mosque. Various historical reports say the mosque with byzantine architecture was an Orthodox cathedral decades ago.

“With the new application that will start on January 15 at the Hagia Sophia Mosque, tourists will be able to visit the mosque without disturbing the prayer environment,” the ministry said in a statement.

The entrance to the mosque will be “provided in a controlled manner through the tunnel and entrance ramp where visitors will be transported to the gallery floor and exited via the ramp in the northeast direction,” the statement said.

“Tourists who come to the gallery section will be able to see the sanctuary floor of the mosque and the Ottoman Period annexes, pass through the heaven-hell gate, and examine the Byzantine Period mosaics in this section,” it added.

Security cameras, fire detection and emergency announcement systems were reportedly installed in the mosque along the tour route. Cleaning and conservation work on the marble coverings and wooden railings on the gallery floor of the mosque was also carried out by restorers and conservators.

Visitors will also have access to a headset guide with QR codes where information on the sight is available in 23 languages.

People visit the Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in Istanbul, Turkey, July 10, 2020. (Reuters)

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How did Muslims and Orthodox Christians react to the reconversion?

No--In 1934, Ataturk turned it into a museum, making it a major tourist attraction and secular symbol in Turkey.

Who was angered by the reconversion of Hagia Sophia in July 2020?

The Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine cathedral and Ottoman mosque, has a rich and diverse history, having served as a church for 916 years before its conquest and subsequent conversion into a mosque in 1453.

Title:

Content: She returned Hagia Sophia to a mosque.
Turkey has challenged global trusteeship
Daily Morning
Istanbul, Turkey
Posted at 29.10.2022 10: 23
Hagia Sophia Mosque (Getty Images)
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Friday that the fact that Turkey has returned the Hagia Sophia museum from a museum to a mosque represents a major challenge to the global trusteeship.
Speaking at a ceremony announcing the vision of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) “Turkey ’ s Century ” in Ankara, Erdogan said his country was challenging global tutelage and thanked citizens for their support for the decision to return Hagia Sophia.
He noted that his party has always sought to eliminate any vestiges of guardianship and promote democracy in the country over the past 20 years.
Turkey has lived through a remarkable period in its history in general and the history of Istanbul, especially when Hagia Sophia was transformed from its status as a museum and restored to its former glory as the Grand Mosque of Hagia Sophia on July 24, 2020.
The historic building remained a church for 916 years until the conquest of Istanbul.
It was then used as a mosque between 1453 and 1934, nearly 500 years before becoming a museum for 86 years.
It is one of the most visited historical buildings in Turkey by domestic and international tourists, and Hagia Sophia was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985.
On July 10, 2020, a Turkish court overturned a 1934 ministerial decision that turned Hagia Sophia into a museum, paving the way for it to be used again as a mosque after an 86-year hiatus.

How did Hagia Sophia become important for Muslims?

Sultan Mehmed II converted Hagia Sophia into a mosque,making it a key religious site for Muslims for centuries.

No--In 1934, Ataturk turned it into a museum, making it a major tourist attraction and secular symbol in Turkey.

Why is Hagia Sophia considered one of the greatest buildings in history?

Served as the central church of Byzantine Christianity,

The site's historical significance is further underscored by its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a status it has held since 1985.

In 2020, Erdogan signed a decree converting the Hagia Sophia into a mosque, a move that was widely criticized by international leaders, including the Pope, who expressed grief over the decision.

Title:

Content: Erdogan invited the leaders of Muslim states to the first prayer in Hagia Sophia
13: 26 22 July Kiev, Ukraine
According to the plan, on July 24, the first prayer will be held in Hagia Sophia in Turkey, after it was decided to convert the building of the Orthodox church into a mosque.
The leaders of many Muslim countries are invited to take part in it.
Erdogan ’ s invitation came from Qatar and Azerbaijan.
The remaining heads of state have not yet responded to the Turkish president.
Remind me!
The Turkish government decided to change the status of the architectural monument and the Orthodox Church of St. Sophia and convert the room into a mosque.
The Pope said that this situation causes him grief.
The Patriarch of Ecumenical and Constantinople, who recently received a great number of churches on the territory of Ukraine, and did not demand the transfer of the museum to the Diocese of Constantinople in a timely manner, said that the creation of a mosque in the museum building can be negatively met in the Orthodox world.
It is expected that the first prayer in the new mosque will be attended by about 1000-1500 people.
All quarantine conditions will be met, participants in prayer will be given masks, and disinfectants will be placed everywhere in the cathedral so that people can treat their hands and their prayer mats.
During the prayer, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will also be present in the cathedral, along with Turkish ministers, leaders of the ruling Justice and Development Party.
As previously reported, all the frescoes and mosaics at the time of prayer will be covered with curtains.
On July 10, a Turkish court ruled that the decision to convert the mosque into a museum in 1934 was illegal.
Erdogan immediately signed a decree on assigning Hagia Sophia the status of a mosque.
The move has sparked international criticism and concern, including from Greece, the United States and Russia, as well as UNESCO and Pope Francis.
Turkey insists that the status of the architectural monument is its internal affair.

No--In 1934, Ataturk turned it into a museum, making it a major tourist attraction and secular symbol in Turkey.

Who was angered by the reconversion of Hagia Sophia in July 2020?

The Greek Orthodox Church also decried the conversion, with the Patriarch warning of a negative reaction in the Orthodox world.

How did Muslims and Orthodox Christians react to the reconversion?

Who was angered by the reconversion of Hagia Sophia in July 2020?

Critics have argued that Erdogan's decision was motivated by a desire to promote his Islamist agenda and shore up his conservative support base.

Title:

Content: Turkey officially opens the Byzantine church and museum "Khora" as a mosque (PHOTOS)
World News
"Kari Mosque" in the Museum and Monastery of "Khora"
Copy Link https: / / www.rt.com / xhpk
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday officially opened the Kari Mosque in Istanbul ’ s Byzantine Museum and Monastery of Khora, four years after the church dedicated a mosque to Muslims.
On Monday, Erdogan oversaw the official remote opening of the Khora mosque and a number of restored sites from the conference hall of his residence in Ankara.
Erdogan said during the opening ceremony, which was broadcast on Turkish television, "May it be a good start."
One of the first worshipers at the mosque told Anadolu Agency: “I have been waiting for its opening for four years, and I have been honored to pray in such a place. ”
Anadolu quoted another serum as saying: “Thank God for showing us these days, I hope we come here from time to time and do our prayers. ”
The site near the walls of the old city of Istanbul is famous for its fine mosaics and frescoes.
The church dates back to the 4th century, although the edifice took its present form during the 11th and 12th centuries.
Greece has criticized the Turkish government ’ s decision to return it to use as a mosque, accusing Ankara of “personal insult ” to another World Heritage site, saying the decisions to turn Hagia Sophia and Khora back into mosques are steps aimed at strengthening the support base of conservatives and the religious trend of Erdogan ’ s ruling party amid an economic downturn.
The museum was built "Khora" monastery, in 534, the building was converted into "Kari Mosque" at the beginning of the 16th century, it was used as a mosque for more than four centuries and was converted into a museum in 1945 by a Turkish ministerial decision.
In August 2020, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan signed a decree on the conversion of the Hagia Sophia Cathedral and the Kari Museum, known as a “bottomless church ” in Turkish, into mosques.
The conversion of the two churches into mosques was praised by Muslims, but drew criticism from Greece and other countries that urged Turkey to protect important Byzantine monuments, both of which have been listed as World Heritage Sites by the United Nations.
Source: A B
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What political motivations influenced Erdogan's decision to reconvert Hagia Sophia?

Erdogan's decision was influenced by Turkey's Islamic resurgence.

The move has been seen as erasing the multiculturalism of the site, with Erdogan's actions being viewed as a means of promoting his Islamo-nationalist ideology.

Title:

Content: >
December 9, 2021

Christian leaders look forward to Turkey's new law on religious foundations

This is an issue of vital importance for local Christian communities whose places of worship are entrusted to and managed by their governing bodies

Religious minorities in Turkey are looking forward to the increasingly Islamo-nationalist government making good its promise of outreach to non-Muslims by giving them freedom to establish and run their religious and social institutions.

The Turkish government is preparing to issue a new regulation on the administrative management of foundations linked to non-Muslim faith communities, which have been paralyzed for years by a legislative impasse that blocks the renewal of their governing bodies.

This is an issue of vital importance for local Christian communities such as Armenians and Assyrians, whose places of worship – many of them historic --, other real estate and public institutions are entrusted to and managed by foundations.

Burhan Ersoy, head of the state-run Directorate of the Foundations, has confirmed that the plan for the drafting of a new regulation concerning the elections for the assignment of offices within the foundations has come into being, Fides reported.

The draft of the text has been drawn up, taking into account requests and proposals from the various minority communities, and it is expected that the new rules, after obtaining government approval, would be implemented by April 2022.

The previous electoral regulation for the top management of foundations had been suspended in 2013, after the government chose to establish new procedures to make the management of real estate more functional and transparent.

This led to some confusion with representatives of the various minority communities unable to come to a consensus to either accept or reject the new electoral rules, Ersoy said.

The Syrian Orthodox Christian Süleyman Can Ustabaşı, current representative of the non-Muslim Foundations within the Assembly of Foundations, has said that the structure of foundations and their membership profiles had changed over time.

The Turkish government already had consultations with the representatives of religious minorities to resolve the dispute over board elections for their foundations.

But Ustabaşı now urges Turkish authorities to carry out another consultation with representatives of minority communities before the new text is to be implemented in 2022.

The legal status of the Foundations is still based on the Peace Treaty of Lausanne, signed in 1923 by Turkey and the Entente powers (British Empire, France and Russian Empire) victorious from the First World War.

The treaty guaranteed equality before the laws and the freedom to promote and manage "religious and social institutions" for non-Muslim communities in Turkey.

However, the state had seized properties run by these foundations and had to contend with litigation as these foundations claimed the rights guaranteed by the Treaty of Lausanne.

Also, starting from 1936, legislative provisions had allowed foundations of non-Muslim communities to acquire new properties. But in 1974, this guarantee was canceled and the state begun seizing assets acquired by these foundations.

Between 2013 and 2018 about 1,084 properties were returned to the foundations linked to non-Muslim communities, and 20 places of worship restored and given back to the foundations, according to official data.

Greek Orthodox Laki Vingas, in a speech published by the Armenian-Turkish newspaper Agos, said that the legislative deadlock on the question of the regulation of the foundations has had a negative effect on the life of the different ecclesial communities.

The block in the processes of renewal of the governing bodies of foundations had led to the expulsion of young people from the institutions linked to their communities, and also that many voluntary activities were "unfortunately interrupted".

Non-Muslim places of worship

Within the general Assembly of the Turkish Foundations are some 167 minority foundations. The Turkish Greek community has 77, the highest number of foundations. The Armenian community has 54 and the Jewish community has 19 foundations.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan after a cabinet meeting held on October 25 announced that authorities had put on the agenda the question of the elections of the directorates of the foundations linked to religious minorities.

He also spoke of fundamental tools for the management of assets and resources destined for non-Muslim places of worship.

The issue of the foundations come at a time when Turkish authorities have expelled more and more Protestant Christians -- foreigners and Turkish converts-- on grounds they constitute a "threat to national security".

Turkey had also recently transformed museums into mosques, such as the Hagia Sophia and the Church of the Holy Saviour in Chora.

Both churches had been turned into museums after the end of the Ottoman Empire and the establishment of modern Turkey.

The Church of the Holy Saviour in Chora was built by the Byzantines in the 5th century. The Ottomans then turned it into a mosque after they captured Constantinople in 1453. And it remained a Muslim worship space until the end of the Second World War when it was transformed into a museum.

The same happened to the Hagia Sophia Museum in Iznik, and the high-profile reconversion of the Hagia Sophia Museum, Istanbul's most identifiable monument.

Many observers believe that President Erdogan, weakened internally by a bad economy and a lack of political perspective, is compensating with erasing part of the country's multiculturalism, aimed at shoring up the ranks of his Islamo-nationalist base.

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What political motivations influenced Erdogan's decision to reconvert Hagia Sophia?

Erdogan's decision was influenced by Turkey's Islamic resurgence.

The decision has also been criticized for its perceived religious undertones, with some arguing that it represents an attempt to impose Islamic values on a site with a rich and diverse cultural heritage.

What political motivations influenced Erdogan's decision to reconvert Hagia Sophia?

Erdogan's decision was influenced by Turkey's Islamic resurgence.

In addition to the criticism from international leaders, the decision has also been met with opposition from within Turkey, with some arguing that it represents a threat to the country's secular identity.

Title:

Content: The first Friday prayer in the old church of Istanbul that has been converted into a mosque - Sunrise Gate
Friday 10 May 2024 9: 23 PM Cairo Cairo 24 °
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First Friday prayers held in the old Istanbul church that has been converted into a mosque
Istanbul - (DPA)
Published on: Friday 10 May 2024 - 7: 21 PM | Last updated on Friday 10 May 2024 - 7: 21 PM
Muslims held Friday prayers at the historic ancient church of Chora, one of Istanbul ’ s most famous Byzantine era monuments, for the first time since it was converted into a mosque, state broadcaster TRT reported.
The Chora Church, formerly a museum, was officially converted into a mosque in 2020.
After lengthy restoration work, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan inaugurated the UNESCO World Heritage Site as a mosque on Monday.
It is noteworthy that in 2020, the famous Hagia Sophia church in Istanbul was converted into a mosque after a decree issued by Erdogan.
The two churches were converted into mosques after the Ottoman conquest of Istanbul in 1435.
The Hagia Sophia became a museum in 1935 and Chora in 1945, and the conversion of the two churches was met with international criticism.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis criticized the transformation of Chora as "an act that offends Istanbul's rich history" ahead of his planned meeting with Erdogan on May 13 in Turkey.
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The conversion of the Hagia Sophia has also been accompanied by the conversion of other historical sites, including the Chora Church, which was converted into a mosque in 2020.

The Chora Church, also known as the Kariye Mosque, is a 4th-century Byzantine construction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its fine mosaics and frescoes.

Title:

Content: After Hagia Sophia, Turkey converts a second ancient Byzantine church into a mosque

Hundreds of worshippers filled the narrow streets of Istanbul's Fatih district on Friday to hear the sounds of Friday prayers ringing out from the newly inaugurated Kariye Mosque.

Once known as the Chora Church, the site spent the last 79 years as a museum. But it is now the latest structure to be converted back into a mosque by the government of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, following the conversion of Hagia Sophia in 2020. While viewed as a triumph by many Turkish Muslims, the Greek Orthodox Church has decried it as an "ill-advised decision" that "makes a mockery of the Turkish government's commitment to religious tolerance and religious freedom."

Chora's conversion was announced shortly after Hagia Sophia's, but its opening for prayer was delayed by years of restoration work.

The showing for the first Friday prayers at Kariye was relatively quiet compared to Hagia Sophia, which drew hundreds of thousands who filled the streets with prayer rugs for blocks and blocks away from the building. By contrast, the crowd on Friday was relatively average for a mosque in one of Istanbul's more religiously conservative neighborhoods, where Friday worshippers frequently spill out onto the streets.

Both the Chora Church and Hagia Sophia are 4th-century Byzantine constructions. They spent nearly a millennium as Christian holy sites before being converted to mosques by the Ottomans after their conquest of Constantinople in the 15th century. Despite their conversions, they remained revered by Orthodox Christians. After the founding of a secular Turkish Republic in the early 20th century, the decision was made for both to be neither mosque nor church but simply museums.

"Both Hagia Sophia and Chora embodied Byzantine and Ottoman pasts, and they became symbols of co-existence and multi-faith living practices. Their conversion fundamentally implies a hierarchy, prioritizing the Islamic past over all other layers, Greek Orthodox, Armenian, Jewish, Syriac, et al," Dr. Özgür Kaymak, a lecturer and researcher on minority rights at Istanbul's MEF University, told Religion News Service in an email.

Rededicating the sites as mosques is more than just a status change. According to Islamic tradition, artwork of human figures are forbidden in places of prayer, while in Orthodox Churches, icons of Christ, saints and other biblical figures are a defining feature.

In Hagia Sophia, the mosaics of Jesus and Mary have been covered with curtains since the conversion. While Erdoğan promised Hagia Sophia would remain fully accessible and free to all visitors, Turkey reneged on that earlier this year, reimposing an entrance fee on tourists and relegating them to the upper level, while the main floor is exclusive to Muslim worshippers.

Observers have also criticized the Turkish Directorate of Religion's caretaking of the site, noting damage that did not exist when it was under the purview of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Though Chora is significantly smaller than Hagia Sophia, it is home to some of the best-preserved examples of late-Byzantine art, including mosaics, icons and frescoes, and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage site.

"For us it's a very important place because it remembers our culture and our traditions here," Father Evangelos Markantonis, an Orthodox priest who was leading a group of theology students to Chora on Friday, told Religion News Service.

"Though we cannot venerate as Orthodox Christians, we have to try to find things we can be united on. Only with dialogue and good deeds can we continue our lives," Markantonis, who is also a professor at the University of Athens, said when asked about the controversy.

Erdoğan had long refused calls from his right to convert churches like Hagia Sophia and Chora, telling supporters in 2018 to fill the nearby Sultan Ahmet Mosque (also known in English as the Blue Mosque) before they talked about needing to pray in Hagia Sophia.

Nonetheless, he made an about-turn in 2020.

"My dear nation, the conquest of Istanbul and the conversion of the Hagia Sophia into a Mosque are among the most glorious chapters in Turkish history," Erdoğan said at the time in a speech inaugurating the Hagia Sophia as a mosque.

"This is the most honorable day that Islam has been looking forward to, Greek Constantinople has become Turkish Istanbul," he added, quoting the Turkish poet Nazim Hikmet.

"The resurrection of Hagia Sophia heralds the liberation of the al-Aqsa Mosque. The resurrection of Hagia Sophia is the footsteps of the will of Muslims across the world to come out of the interregnum," Erdoğan said in his concluding remarks.

Chora's opening as the Kariye Mosque comes just weeks after Erdoğan's Justice and Development Party (AKP) suffered its largest electoral defeat in two decades during Turkey's nationwide municipal elections.

"The recent conversion of Chora into a mosque may be due to Erdoğan's many problems, including his geopolitical power politics, his appeal to religio-nationalism to revive his electoral popularity after the March elections or his tactic to divert attention from Turkey's economic downturn," Kaymak said.

Many analysts have attributed the loss to AKP bleeding votes to the more Islamist-leaning New Welfare Party, which has pressured Erdogan over his response to the Israel-Hamas war and humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.

Muslim worshippers at the mosque on Friday said they viewed its rededication as an Islamic site to be a national win for Turkey.

"This mosque is one of the symbols of the Conquest. We are proud and happy. There are very beautiful frescoes inside. They were also nicely renovated before they were closed. May it be good for our country and our nation," a bystander, Ahmet Öteyüzoğlu, told Turkish media.

"Thank God for these days. Not everyone has the opportunity in their lifetime," another bystander named Mehmet Çelik told the Turkish news service Anadolu Agency, in reference to having been able to pray at both the rededicated Hagia Sophia and Kariye Mosques.

However, Greece, the U.S. State Department and Orthodox Christian institutions worldwide have all criticized the decision to revert the structure into a mosque.

"I want to publicly express my intense dissatisfaction, interpreting the feelings of all Greek women and men, for the completely unnecessary conversion of a historic Byzantine temple, the Monastery of Chora, into a mosque. It is, I believe, an action that offends the rich history of Istanbul itself as a crossroads of cultures," Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said shortly before leaving for Turkey for a planned meeting with Erdogan.

"We encourage the Turkish government to preserve and ensure access to sites and buildings that have hosted different religious communities in a way that respects their diverse histories," a State Department spokesperson said in response to questions from Greek media.

"The Turkish government's appropriation of both as the property of one faith group not only constitutes yet another sign of that government's contempt for Turkey's rich Orthodox Christian heritage but further imperils the religious freedom of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the remaining Christians of that land," the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate said in a statement.

© Religion News Service

The conversion of these sites has been met with widespread criticism, with many arguing that it represents a loss of cultural heritage and a threat to the country's multicultural identity.

The Turkish government has defended the decision, arguing that it is a means of promoting democracy and preserving the country's cultural heritage.

What kind of domestic reaction did Erdogan's reconversion of Hagia Sophia receive?

However, critics have argued that the decision is a politically motivated move, designed to consolidate Erdogan's power and promote his Islamist agenda.

What political motivations influenced Erdogan's decision to reconvert Hagia Sophia?

Erdogan's decision was influenced by Turkey's Islamic resurgence.

The controversy surrounding the Hagia Sophia has also raised concerns about the preservation of the site, with some arguing that the conversion has put the site's historical and cultural significance at risk.

Title:

Content: [ditty_news_ticker id="27897"] Video Shows Fragments Falling from the Dome of Hagia Sophia - Orthodox Christian Laity

Video Shows Fragments Falling from the Dome of Hagia Sophia

0

Source: Greek Reporter

A still from a recently released video shows visitors rushing to take cover as fragments fall from the dome of Hagia Sophia. Credit: Daily Motion/BirGün

A video from 2022 that came to light recently shows fragments falling on visitors from the dome of Hagia Sophia, the former epicenter of Christian worship at Constantinople, today’s Istanbul.

The footage released by the Turkish newspaper, BirGün, raises serious questions over the safety of the former Orthodox Christian cathedral, now a mosque.

BirGün notably quoted officials as saying that “pieces are falling from the roof, due to the humidity created by the crowd, but no precautions are being taken”.

The president of the Turkish Art History Association, Serif Yasar, argued for restoration of the monument as soon as possible, suggesting that “If Hagia Sophia is not restored, it will collapse with the first earthquake.”

The monument was restored as a mosque three years ago after serving as a museum from 1935-2020 and has since received 21 million visitors, according to Turkey’s tourism and culture minister.

Yasar added that when the church was a museum, the scientific council overseeing it urged that groups of no more than 25 people should be allowed to enter the building at any one time.

This enormous lift in visitation has likely brought to the forefront the need for repairs and it was indeed reported in September that the Turkish government had decided to start long-term maintenance of Hagia Sophia.

Turkey to implement visitor management policy at Hagia Sophia

In early October Turkish historian Ilber Ortayli expressed fears that the large number of visitors to Hagia Sophia could lead to a catastrophic structural failure if not addressed immediately.

Writing in the Hürriyet daily, Ortayli said that the monument, which attracts three million pilgrims annually apart from tourists, has undergone significant damage since its conversion into a mosque.

He asserted that even a modest number of 20-30 thousand people annually, including scientists, historians, archaeologists, representatives of the Muslim religion, politicians, and public officials, could be considered excessive for the endurance of the monument.

In June 2022 a number of tiles of the ancient marble floors in Hagia Sophia were damaged by heavy machines used to clean the site.

In April 2022, The Turkish Association of Art Historians stated that the historic Imperial Gate in Hagia Sophia had been badly damaged.

The group posted a picture clearly depicting the damage to the oak wood of the 15-century-old gate.

Turkey unveiled plans in late October for a visitor management policy at Hagia Sophia, including charging foreign tourists with an entrance fee to be implemented starting Jan. 15.

Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy said that extensive restoration work is underway in various sections of Hagia Sophia, now a mosque, with plans to progress to other parts upon their completion.

He emphasized that, based on UNESCO’s recommendations, a visitor management plan would be enforced to enhance the quality and safety of visits while preserving the historical significance of the site.

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Officials argue for repairs to Hagia Sophia after footage shows fragments falling from the dome – Neos Kosmos

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The site has undergone extensive restoration work, with 21 million visitors having visited the site since its conversion into a mosque.

However, concerns have been raised about the impact of large crowds on the site, with fragments having fallen from the dome due to humidity and crowd pressure.

The Turkish government has implemented a visitor management policy, and an entrance fee has been charged to foreign tourists in an effort to preserve the site.

Despite these efforts, the controversy surrounding the Hagia Sophia remains a highly contentious issue, with many arguing that the decision represents a threat to the site's cultural and historical significance.

How did Muslims and Orthodox Christians react to the reconversion?

The UNESCO World Heritage Site designation of the Hagia Sophia and other historical sites in Turkey has also been cited as a reason for the controversy, with many arguing that the conversion of these sites represents a threat to the country's cultural heritage.

In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the Hagia Sophia is a complex and multifaceted issue, with various critics citing concerns over the historical significance of the site, its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the perceived religious undertones of the decision.

The decision has been widely criticized, with many arguing that it represents a threat to the site's cultural and historical significance, as well as the country's multicultural identity.

As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the Turkish government will address the concerns of critics and preserve the cultural and historical significance of the Hagia Sophia.

The international community has also been critical of the decision, with many arguing that it represents a threat to the principles of multiculturalism and secularism.

The Greek PM has criticized the conversion of the Chora Church as offensive to history, and the US, Russia, and Orthodox Christian institutions have also expressed their criticism of the decision.

How did Muslims and Orthodox Christians react to the reconversion?

How did the Greek prime minister describe the reconversion in May 2024?

An act that belittles Istanbul's history

Who was angered by the reconversion of Hagia Sophia in July 2020?

The Turkish Directorate of Religion's caretaking of the Hagia Sophia has also been criticized, with many arguing that it is inadequate and threatens the site's cultural and historical significance.

The artwork of human figures in the Hagia Sophia, including mosaics of Jesus and Mary, have been covered with curtains, as they are forbidden in Islamic places of prayer.

The Historic Imperial Gate of the Hagia Sophia was damaged in 2022, further highlighting the need for preservation and protection of the site.

Overall, the controversy surrounding the Hagia Sophia is a complex issue that requires careful consideration and preservation of the site's cultural and historical significance.

No--In 1934, Ataturk turned it into a museum, making it a major tourist attraction and secular symbol in Turkey.


Traditional Indian medicine, also known as Ayurveda, is being researched and applied in various ways to treat specific diseases using Indian herbal medicine.

The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine is conducting a trial on Ashwagandha, which is expected to last over a year and involves 2,000 UK long Covid patients, to combat long Covid symptoms.

Ashwagandha is also being researched for its potential to treat anxiety and stress, as well as improve muscle strength and reduce fatigue.

In addition, the All India Institute of Ayurveda is collaborating on Ashwagandha research, and the Ministry of Ayush is funding an Ashwagandha study.

Other institutions, such as JIPMER and AIIMS, are researching herbal medicine, including a herbal formulation called BGR-34, which has been found to manage diabetes.

The global herbal medicine market is projected to reach USD 371.45 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 8.02% during the forecast period.

The market is led by companies such as Cultivator Natural Products and Himalaya Global Holdings, and Europe is expected to lead the global herbal medicine market due to the cosmetics sector.

In India, the government is documenting medicinal herbs of tribal communities nationwide, and the National Medicinal Plant Board has found over 1,500 plants in Uttarakhand.

The Ayurvedic Medical College and Hospital at Akhnoor, and the Unani Medical College and Hospital at Ganderbal, are examples of institutions in the field of traditional Indian medicine.

The Central Research Institute of Yoga & Naturopathy has been established in Dibrugarh, and a 100-bedded Yoga and Naturopathy hospital is being built.

The WHO is also supporting traditional medicine integration research, and has recognized the use of traditional and complementary medicine by 170 of its member

Traditional Indian medicine, also known as Ayurveda, is being researched and applied in various ways to treat specific diseases using Indian herbal medicine.

Title:

Content: Tuesday 10 August 2021 1:10 pm

Long Covid cure? Researchers to trial traditional Indian herb treatment

The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine will work with the All India Institute of Ayurveda to determine whether a traditional Indian herb can help people recover from long Covid.

Ashwagandha, commonly known as Indian winter cherry, is traditionally used in the Indian Ayurvedic system of medicine to boost energy, reduce stress and strengthen the immune system.

Experts said recent trials had proven the herb’s efficacy in reducing anxiety, stress, improving muscle strength and reducing fatigue symptoms in patients with chronic diseases.

Long Covid patients can suffer from cognitive dysfunction, poor mental health, extreme fatigue and muscle weakness.

It is estimated these symptoms affect 10 to 20 per cent of Covid survivors and can last for one to three months or longer in many cases.

The study, funded by the Ministry of Ayush of the Government of India, will include a double-blind clinical trial involving 2,000 people living in the UK with long Covid.

Half of the trial participants will take 500mg Ashwagandha tablets twice a day for three months, while the other half will be given a placebo.

Researchers will randomly select participants to have a monthly follow-up of self-reported quality of life, impairment to activities of daily living, mental and physical health symptoms, supplement use and adverse events.

The study is expected to last for over a year.

“Ashwagandha has been shown to reduce symptoms of other conditions that are similar to those of long Covid, so we are hopeful that it will be an effective way to combat the condition,” said Sanjay Kinra, professor in clinical epidemiology at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine.

The research is also supported by the UK’s All-Party Parliamentary Group on Indian Traditional Sciences and the Traditional Complementary and Integrative Medicine Unit at the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Research is the only way to ensure appropriate integration of traditional medicine knowledge into mainstream medical practice,” said technical officer at WHO Geneva, Geetha Krishnan, who helped to facilitate the research project.

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What does traditional Indian medicine generally treat?

It addresses the physical aspects of health conditions.

What is the traditional Indian medical system called?

What mental health problems does traditional Indian medicine treat?

Support the management of symptoms related to mental health.

What treatment did Former Kenyan President's daughter Rosemary Odinga get that helped her regain eyesight?

Traditional Indian medicine Ayurvedic treatment.

The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine is conducting a trial on Ashwagandha, which is expected to last over a year and involves 2,000 UK long Covid patients, to combat long Covid symptoms.

Ashwagandha is also being researched for its potential to treat anxiety and stress, as well as improve muscle strength and reduce fatigue.

In what areas have the medical uses of traditional Indian medicine been studied?

What does traditional Indian medicine generally treat?

It addresses the psychological aspects of health conditions.

What mental health problems does traditional Indian medicine treat?

Support the management of symptoms related to mental health.

In addition, the All India Institute of Ayurveda is collaborating on Ashwagandha research, and the Ministry of Ayush is funding an Ashwagandha study.

Other institutions, such as JIPMER and AIIMS, are researching herbal medicine, including a herbal formulation called BGR-34, which has been found to manage diabetes.

Title:

Content: Nation

Researchers claim 400 medicinal plants have anti-diabetic properties

X

New Delhi: As a part of its initiatives to reduce the diabetic burden, the scientists have emphasised on exploring the anti-diabetic properties of around 400 medicinal plants to be used in making medicines based on ayurvedic formulations to control type-2 diabetes by reducing sugar level in blood.

According to the researchers from Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry and All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Kalyani, as of now, there are 21 herbal plants, including Vijayasar, Jamun, Cumin, Daruharidra, little gourd, bael, fenugreek, neem, amla, turmeric that have been found to have prominent anti-hyperglycemic action.

Stressing that diabetes cure lies in the nature, the researchers asserted that intensive studies have been done on 21 herbs and in-depth research on at least 400 herbal plants is needed to exhibit their anti-diabetic properties..

As per their research paper, which is published in the World Journal of Diabetes, these medicinal plants have been the basis of many drugs to manage diabetes. The researchers have also cited the example of BGR-34, a herbal formulation developed by the

Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), which has been used to manage diabetes.

The herbal drug BGR-34 contains not one, but many active compounds derived from four medicinal herbs daruharidra, gudmar, methi and vijayasar. Apart from this, giloe and majeeth have also been added to increase immunity as well as antioxidants levels, said Dr Sanchit Sharma, executive director, AIMIL Pharmaceuticals.

The study titled “Treatment on Nature’s lap: Use of Herbal Products in the Management of Hyperglycemia” stated

that although partial research conducted on eight plants, including pomegranate, shilajit, bean, tea, ginkgo biloba, and saffron demonstrate anti-diabetic properties,

it emphasised the need for further trials.

A recent study conducted by AIIMS Delhi revealed that BGR-34, an Ayurvedic medicine, not only helps in reducing sugar levels but also addresses obesity.

The researchers also noted that several allopathic drugs used in diabetes management have their origins in herbal remedies.

For instance, metformin, a widely prescribed medication, is derived from the Galega officinalis plant, which

was historically used to treat diabetes in 19th century Europe.

Next Story

In what areas have the medical uses of traditional Indian medicine been studied?

The global herbal medicine market is projected to reach USD 371.45 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 8.02% during the forecast period.

Title:

Content: Herbal Medicine Market Size to Reach USD 371.45 Billion by 2030 | Exclusive Report by Fortune Business Insights™

Key Companies in Herbal Medicine Market are Cultivator Natural Products Pvt. Ltd. (India), 21ST Century HealthCare, Inc. (U.S.), Herbalife Nutrition (U.S.), ZeinPharma Germany GmbH (Germany), Blackmores Limited (Australia), Himalaya Global Holdings Ltd. (India), Nutraceutical Corporation (U.S.), Emami Limited (India), Nature's Answer, LLC. (U.S.), Patanjali Ayurved Limited (India), and more players profiled.

Pune INDIA

Pune, India, Nov. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global herbal medicine market size was valued at USD 201.06 billion in 2022 and is expected to be worth USD 216.40 billion in 2023. The market is projected to reach USD 371.45 billion by 2030, recording a CAGR of 8.02% during the forecast period.

Herbal medicines are made from natural ingredients to treat a wide range of diseases and improve an individual’s immunity level. Since there has been a drastic change in people’s lifestyle, the incidence of cardiovascular diseases and chronic stress are on the rise. These factors are expected to boost the adoption of herbal medicines as they claim to have no side-effects, unlike the conventional ones.

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Leading Players Featured in the Research Report:

Companies leading Herbal Medicine Market are Cultivator Natural Products Pvt. Ltd. (India), 21ST Century HealthCare, Inc. (U.S.), Herbalife Nutrition (U.S.), ZeinPharma Germany GmbH (Germany), Blackmores Limited (Australia), Himalaya Global Holdings Ltd. (India), Nutraceutical Corporation (U.S.), Emami Limited (India), Nature's Answer, LLC. (U.S.), Patanjali Ayurved Limited (India)

Report Scope & Segmentation:

Report Attributes Details
Forecast Period 2023-2030
Forecast CAGR 8.02%
2030 Value Projection USD 371.45 Billion
Herbal Medicine Market Size in 2022 USD 201.06 Billion
Historical Data 2019-2021
No. of Pages 208
Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Company Profiles, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and Latest Trends
Segments Covered
  • By Application
  • By Form
  • By Region
Regions Covered
  • North America
  • Europe
  • Asia Pacific
  • Latin America
  • Middle East and Africa
Herbal Medicine Market Growth Drivers Growing Adoption of Herbal Ingredients in Cosmetic Products to Boost Market Growth

Browse Summary of this Research Report:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/herbal-medicine-market-106320

COVID-19 Impact:

Growing Health Concerns During Pandemic Boosted Product Demand

The healthcare and pharma industries experienced long and short-term effects of the pandemic as there were several delays in R&D and manufacturing activities to produce effective medicines for the infection. This situation made people more concerned about their health and wellbeing, which boosted the consumption of dietary supplements and immunity boosters that were made from natural ingredients. This accelerated the market’s progress.

Segmentation:

Growing Usage of Herbal Ingredients in Nutraceuticals and Pharma Products to Boost Market Progress

In terms of application, the market is divided into pharmaceutical & nutraceutical, food & beverages, and personal care & beauty products. The pharmaceutical & nutraceutical segment holds the largest herbal medicine market share as herbal ingredients are increasingly used in dietary supplements and medicines to enhance their performance.

Rising Availability of Herbal Medicines in Tablet & Capsule Form to Augment Market Development

Based on form, the market is segmented into powder, liquid & gel, and tablets & capsules. The tablets & capsules segment is expected to capture the leading market share as herbal medicines are produced in the form of tablets and capsules to ease their access to patients.

With respect to region, the market covers North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa.

Report Coverage:

The research report offers an in-depth analysis of the market and highlights key aspects, such as leading types, companies, and top product forms. It also provides valuable insights into the market segments and trends, while covering key industry developments. Besides the aforementioned factors, the report encompasses many factors that have contributed to the market's growth in recent years.

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Drivers and Restraints:

Growing Adoption of Herbal Ingredients in Cosmetic Products to Boost Market Growth

Exporters of herbal ingredients in the developing countries are viewing the cosmetics industry as a viable medium to help them expand their operations overseas. A growing number of cosmetics manufacturing companies are incorporating natural ingredients to cater to the robust demand for cosmetics that are good for the face, skin, and body. They are replacing synthetic chemicals with herbal ingredients to boost their product’s performance and expand their customer base.

However, stringent guidelines with respect to using herbal ingredients as raw materials may hinder the herbal medicine market growth.

Regional Insights:

Europe Market to Expand Due to Growing Product Usage in Cosmetics Sector

Europe is expected to lead the global herbal medicine market as the region has a vast cosmetics sector. This can present lucrative opportunities for emerging companies that develop and supply herbal ingredient-based products. Many cosmetic companies across the region are witnessing a strong rise in the demand for personal care & beauty products that are made from natural ingredients. This factor will spur the regional market growth.

North America will also grow at a significant pace as customers across the region are becoming more conscious about their health and wellbeing, which has increased the consumption of dietary supplements.

Competitive Landscape:

Key Companies to Use Various Strategies to Boost Their Product Sales

Some of the major companies in the market include ZeinPharma Germany GmbH, Cultivator Natural Products Pvt. Ltd., Blackmores Limited, Herbalife Nutrition, and many others. They are implementing various strategies, such as partnerships and new product launches to increase their product sales and expand their presence in the global market.

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Major Table of Content:

  • Introduction
    • Research Scope
    • Market Segmentation
    • Research Methodology
    • Definitions and Assumptions
  • Executive Summary
  • Market Dynamics
    • Market Drivers
    • Market Restraints
    • Market Opportunities
    • Market Trends
  • Key Insights
    • Overview on the Parent Market
    • Supply Chain Analysis
    • Industry SWOT Analysis
    • Recent Industry Developments - Policies, Mergers & Acquisitions, and New Product Launches
    • Market Analysis and Insights (in Relation with COVID-19)
      • Impact of COVID-19 on the Market
      • Supply Chain Challenges due to the Pandemic
      • Potential Opportunities Due to COVID-19
  • Global Herbal Medicine Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2030
    • Key Findings / Summary
    • Market Size Estimates and Forecast
      • By Form (Value)
        • Powder
        • Liquid & Gel
        • Tablets & Capsules
      • By Application (Value)
        • Pharmaceutical & Nutraceutical
        • Food & Beverages
        • Personal Care & Beauty Products
      • By Region (Value)
        • North America
        • Europe
        • Asia Pacific
        • South America
        • Middle East & Africa
  • North America Herbal Medicine Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2030
    • Key Findings / Summary
    • Market Size Estimates and Forecast
      • By Form (Value)
        • Powder
        • Liquid & Gel
        • Tablets & Capsules
        • Others
      • By Application (Value)
        • Pharmaceutical & Nutraceutical
        • Food & Beverages
        • Personal Care & Beauty Products
      • By Country (Value)
        • U.S.
          • By Application (Value)
            • Pharmaceutical & Nutraceutical
            • Food & Beverages
            • Personal Care & Beauty Products
        • Canada
          • By Application (Value)
            • Pharmaceutical & Nutraceutical
            • Food & Beverages
            • Personal Care & Beauty Products
        • Mexico
          • By Application (Value)
            • Pharmaceutical & Nutraceutical
            • Food & Beverages
            • Personal Care & Beauty Products

To Be Continued…!

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Key Industry Development:

December 2022 – Dabur expanded its Ayurvedic medicines portfolio by introducing Ratnaprash Sugar-Free and Aampachak Kkadha. The former is said to be good for health and provides strength and stamina, whereas the latter strengthens the digestive system and contains herbs, such as shunthi, bhumiamla, harad, pippali, and others.

Read Related Insights:

By 2028, Dietary Supplements Market to Achieve USD 128.64 Billion | Exclusive Research Report by Fortune Business Insights™

Nutraceuticals Market to Hit USD 658.11 Billion by 2028 | With 9.3% of CAGR

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The market is led by companies such as Cultivator Natural Products and Himalaya Global Holdings, and Europe is expected to lead the global herbal medicine market due to the cosmetics sector.

In India, the government is documenting medicinal herbs of tribal communities nationwide, and the National Medicinal Plant Board has found over 1,500 plants in Uttarakhand.

Title:

Content: Govt to document medicinal herbs of tribal communities

Centre to document medicinal herbs of tribal communities across country

The union ministry of tribal affairs carried out the initiative in Kerala, Rajasthan, Maharashtra as well as in Uttarakhand

The Centre is working on documenting medicinal herbs and healers of the tribal communities across the country. A pilot from Uttarakhand has been completed, resulting in a five-volume book series of over 1,400 medicinal plants. The exercise, officials said, will be carried out in more states.

The union ministry of tribal affairs carried out the initiative in Kerala, Rajasthan, Maharashtra as well as in Uttarakhand. Apart from documenting the plant and healers, they also documented the Sanskrit names of these plants.

In Kerala, the Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham was given the responsibility, All India Institute of Medical Studies Jodhpur in Rajasthan, Pravara Institute of Medical Sciences Ahmedabad for Maharashtra, and Patanjali carried it out in Uttarakhand.

While the others are carrying it out, Patanjali’s series of seven tomes are ready. In the hill state three districts were chosen, which included Pithoragarh and Udham Singh Nagar, all phytodiversity was documented by a team of over 50-50 people over a period of two years.

When asked about the Sanskrit nomenclature, the official said that it was a way of directing attention to the functionality of the plant.

“The National Medicinal Plant Board says there are over 1,500 plants in Uttarakhand, many of which are not even documented. But in three districts alone, we found 900 plants,” a senior official of the ministry said. “Tribal medicine holds considerable interest among researchers.”

Chemical analysis of all these plants was carried out, to find the active ingredient in the plant, with the help of an HPLC machine, officials said. Apart from that, samples of these were preserved, along with data on their therapeutic use. The official said that permissions from the biodiversity board were also taken.

In addition to that, the Hyderabad-based National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) carried out a similar exercise in their areas where they found three medicinal plants, which when combined can be a cure for malaria. A similar exercise was carried out by the same team in the Rashtrapati Bhawan as well.

Healers in tribal communities in the areas that use these plants were also documented, along with data of their areas of expertise. In all, 750 healers were documented.

Officials said that after the successful pilot, the ministry has sent it to the AYUSH ministry, urging them to take it further across the country using SC/ST components from their funds. Officials also said that details of these plants will be put up online.

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The Ayurvedic Medical College and Hospital at Akhnoor, and the Unani Medical College and Hospital at Ganderbal, are examples of institutions in the field of traditional Indian medicine.

Title:

Content: J&K Has Been A Major Center Of Indian System Of Medicine Since Ancient Times: LG Sinha

– Lt Governor addresses Consultative meeting of Commission for Indian System of Medicine.
– Reiterates J&K Government's commitment to make the UT a hub of medical and wellness and to contribute to PM Narendra Modi's vision of ‘Heal in India' and ‘Heal by India'.
– With a rich legacy of medicine system, we are committed for investment and innovation in AYUSH and to strengthen traditional system of medicines. It has tremendous growth potential and J&K bestowed with nature's bounty and rich medicinal plants will promote startups and business units in AYUSH: LG.
– LG highlights several milestones achieved in AYUSH sector of J&K UT.
– Ayurvedic Medical College & Hospital at Akhnoor, Unani Medical College & Hospital at Ganderbal and upgradation of 442 AYUSH Dispensaries have been done for well-being of the people: LG.
– Five 50-Bedded Integrated AYUSH Hospitals in Districts of Kulgam, Kathua, Kupwara, Kishtwar and Samba have been approved by Ministry of AYUSH under National AYUSH Mission to strengthen AYUSH secondary healthcare in the UT of J&K: LG.
– In order to promote Medical Tourism in UT, 6 Specialized AYUSH Wellness Centres at famous tourist places-Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Patnitop, Katra and Golf Course & Srinagar have been approved, out of which three centres have been made operational: LG Sinha.

Srinagar, Jun 2: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha addressed a Consultative meeting on “Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission – Heal in India, Heal by India,” organized by National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (ISM), Ministry of AYUSH, today at University of Kashmir. Addressing the gathering of health professionals and practitioners of ISM from across the country, the Lt Governor reiterated the commitment of the J&K Government to making the UT a hub of medical and wellness tourism and to contribute to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of ‘Heal in India' and ‘Heal by India'.
He said the deliberations during this important meeting will build a solid framework for exchange of ideas to promote ISM and implementation of two important components of Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission – Healthcare Professional Registry and Healthcare Facility Registry in the UT.
“J&K has been a major center of the Indian system of medicine since ancient times and according to Kalhana's Rajtarangini, a well developed Ayurveda hospital was functional those days. Kalhana wrote that J&K had flourishing Ayurvedic drug manufacturing units and Ayurvedic pharmacies,” said the Lt Governor. With such a rich legacy, we are committed for investment and innovation in AYUSH and to strengthen the traditional system of medicines. It has tremendous growth potential and J&K bestowed with nature's bounty and rich medicinal plants will promote startups and business units in AYUSH, he added. He said the world has recognized the Indian System of Medicine as the oldest, effective and scientific health system for prevention and cure. Now the time has come to connect the new generation with this heritage and rich legacy to fulfil the vision of One Earth, One Health, he added. At the consultative meet, the Lt Governor shared the efforts to strengthen the basic health infrastructure, promote medical tourism in the J&K UT and provide the people with access to world class, affordable and quality healthcare services.
Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, the Ministry of AYUSH and J&K administration are working together with the vision of ‘One Earth, One Health' to serve the global community through integrated and ancient Indian System of medicine, he said.
Jammu Kashmir is fully prepared to become an important centre of AYUSH and ‘Heal in India' campaign, which will not only promote medical tourism in the Union Territory, but also create immense business and employment opportunities in the healthcare sector, added the Lt Governor. The Lt Governor also highlighted several milestones achieved in the AYUSH sector of J&K UT. Ayurvedic Medical College and Hospital at Akhnoor, Unani Medical College and Hospital at Ganderbal and upgradation of 442 AYUSH Dispensaries have been done for the well-being of the people. Five 50-Bedded Integrated AYUSH Hospitals in Districts of Kulgam, Kathua, Kupwara, Kishtwar and Samba have been approved by Ministry of AYUSH under National AYUSH Mission to strengthen AYUSH secondary healthcare in the UT of J&K, he said.
In order to promote Medical Tourism in UT, 6 Specialized AYUSH Wellness Centres at famous tourist places-Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Patnitop, Katra and Golf Course Jammu and Srinagar have been approved, out of which three centres have been made operational, he further added. India is home to the world's oldest medical systems. It is not limited to treatment only. It is a science of understanding life and wellbeing in a holistic manner. Through Yoga and Ayush Centres, it is our endeavour to spread the vision and benefits of Ayurveda to all sections of the society, observed the Lt Governor. The Lt Governor also shared valuable suggestions for integrating local health traditions with the mainstream of Ayurveda by promoting People's Science preserved for centuries and transcribing the rich and diverse Indian medicine knowledge in simple language for the new generation. It is also necessary to understand the roots of the traditional system to establish harmony between the Registry of Professionals and the Registry of Facility and all other disciplines of medicine, he added.
Vaidya Jayant Deopujari, Chairman National Commission for Indian System of Medicine and Prof. (Vaidya) Rakesh Sharma, President, Board of Ethics and Registration, also spoke on the occasion and threw light on the key features of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission and the aims and objectives of consultative meeting. Prof. Nilofer Khan, Vice Chancellor, Kashmir University; Bhupinder Kumar, Secretary, Health & Medical Department; Ayushi Sudan, State Mission Director, Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission; senior officials from National Health Authority, ISM and UT Administration; HoDs and scores of health professionals and Ayurvedacharya were present.

The Central Research Institute of Yoga & Naturopathy has been established in Dibrugarh, and a 100-bedded Yoga and Naturopathy hospital is being built.

Title:

Content: Dibrugarh (Assam) [India], January 28 (ANI): Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal along with Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday laid the foundation stone of the Central Research Institute of Yoga & Naturopathy (CRIYN) along with a 100 bedded Yoga and Naturopathy hospital at Dihing Khamtighat in Dibrugarh.

The institution will be developed over a land parcel of nearly 15 acres (45 bighas) at an approximate investment of Rs 100 crore, with an aim at bringing a scientifically valid and useful synergy between traditional knowledge of Yoga and Naturopathy and modern tools of technology.

Also Read | Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla Says Committee To Be Formed Under Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar To Review Country's Anti-Defection Law.

It will establish benchmark standards in education, Preventive healthcare and research in the field of Yoga and Naturopathy. This state-of-the-art institute will focus on fundamental aspects, scientific validation of traditional systems of medicine and practices through evidence based research, apart from functioning as an international collaboration centre for global promotion and research in Yoga and Naturopathy.

The institute will also serve as incubation centres in startups in the field of Yoga and wellness sector.

Also Read | Thane Shocker: Three-and-Half-Year-Old Missing Boy Found Dead in Residential Building's Water Tank in Bhiwandi, Probe Underway.

Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal, said, "Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, the Ayush movement has got a tremendous boost as it has become a pioneering force of global wellness movement. Modiji's unrelenting focus to power India's growth engine with Northeast as powerhouse is resulting unprecedented growth. Today, we lay the foundation stone for the first of its kind Central Research Institute of Yoga & Naturopathy with a 100 bedded hospital in Dibrugarh. This is yet another testament of Modiji to empower Assam and the whole of Northeast to harness its rich flora & fauna and drive expansion in Ayush sector, with peripheral growth in hospitality, patient care as well as medical tourism sectors as well. Mother Nature has blessed us with her immense beauty and this will go a long way in providing a healing touch for people, of not just the immediate region but the South Asia region, with the rejuvenated, scientifically validated treatment regime through Yoga, Naturopathy, Ayurveda and other traditional forms of medicine."

"The institution will also offer clinical training facilities to train Yoga and Naturopathy experts for capacity building programs in areas of cardiac rehabilitation, Diabetes Rehabilitation, autoimmune diseases and NCD risk reduction," he added.

Sarbananda Sonowal also said that, with research and development in the protocols of Yoga and Naturopathy, CRIYN will develop evidence based protocols for management of NCDs that can be integrated with conventional care, reinforcing the Integrated Medicine approach of patient care.

The hospital will provide for inpatient services with Yoga and naturopathy protocols to heal and enrich quality of lives.

On this occassion Sarbananda Sonowal talked about Atmanirbhar Bharat stating, Modiji makes it a point to empower, enable and energise Northeast as the Powerhouse of India's economic growth, we stand at the threshold of an opportunity to seize the moment as India cruise towards becoming an Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Adding further, Sarbananda Sonowal said, "Dibrugarh has an illustrious history as the nerve centre of this region. Endowed with natural resources, it has always proved as a major driver of growth. Under the inspiring leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, this growth saga has gained momentum since 2014. The resurgence of Ayush at the forefront of global wellness movement not only provides an economic rationale for India, but, more importantly, it is the virtuous and apt direction towards building a Swastha Bharat - a vision of Modiji. Today's initiative is a strong step towards realisation of this beautiful vision."

The event was also graced by the Union Minister of State Rameswar Teli, the Minister of Health & Family Welfare of Assam, Keshab Mahanta, the Minister of Industries & Commerce and Culture, Bimal Borah; the MLA of Dibrugarh and Chairman, Assam Industrial Development Council (AIDC), Prasanta Phukan; MLA of Moran, Chakradhar Gogoi, MLA of Duliajan, Terash Gowalla; MLA of Lahowal, Binod Hazarika; MLA of Chabua, Ponakan Baruah; MLA of Naharkatia, Taranga Gogoi among other dignitaries including senior officials of the Ministry of Ayush as well as Government of Assam.

"The centre will provide inpatient, outpatient, and day care services. The services offered by the centre are naturopathy diet and nutrition, yoga therapy, massage & manipulative therapies, acupressure, acupuncture, chromotherapy, magneto therapy, physiotherapy and hydrotherapy treatments," Sarbananda Sonowal said.

"It will help patients to effectively manage Obesity, Metabolic syndrome, diabetes, CVD, stroke, Asthma, COPD, Migraine, IBS, IBD, Arthritis, Autoimmune diseases, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases," he added.(ANI)

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The WHO is also supporting traditional medicine integration research, and has recognized the use of traditional and complementary medicine by 170 of its member