SMART 2.0 program

The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), in collaboration with the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM), has launched the SMART 2.0 program, aimed at advancing Ayurveda research and integrating it into mainstream healthcare practices.

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What is SMART 2.0?
About the Program

• SMART (Scope for Mainstreaming Ayurveda Research among Teaching professionals) 2.0 promotes collaborative clinical studies across Ayurveda institutions and hospitals in India.
• The program emphasizes priority research areas in Ayurveda to generate credible scientific evidence regarding its efficacy and safety.

Key Objectives

• Develop robust evidence on the effectiveness and safety of Ayurveda interventions.
• Leverage interdisciplinary research methods to integrate Ayurveda findings into public healthcare systems.

Focus Areas of Research

• Bal Kasa: Pediatric cough.
• Malnutrition: Addressing nutritional deficiencies.
• Insufficient Lactation: Improving lactation in nursing mothers.
• Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB): Managing menstrual irregularities.
• Osteoporosis in Post-Menopausal Women: Enhancing bone health.
• Type II Diabetes Mellitus: Managing blood sugar levels effectively.

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What is CCRAS?
About CCRAS

• CCRAS is an autonomous body under the Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy).
• It is the apex organization in India responsible for coordinating, formulating, and promoting research in Ayurveda and the Sowa-Rigpa system of medicine.

Core Responsibilities

• Scientific Research: Develop evidence-based practices in Ayurveda.
• Collaboration: Partner with academic and medical institutions to expand research outreach.
• Policy Advocacy: Assist the government in integrating Ayurveda into national healthcare policies.

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Key Facts about the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM)
About NCISM

• Established under the NCISM Act, 2020, NCISM is a statutory body focused on regulating education and professional standards in the Indian System of Medicine.

Structure and Composition

• Composed of 29 members, appointed by the Central Government.
• A Search Committee recommends appointments for the Chairperson, part-time members, and presidents of the autonomous boards.

Functions

1. Policy Framing:
   • Develop policies for regulating medical institutions and practitioners of the Indian System of Medicine.
2. Healthcare Infrastructure:
   • Assess and plan for the human resources and facilities required in the sector.
3. Compliance Monitoring:
   • Oversee State Medical Councils' adherence to regulations.
4. Coordination:
   • Ensure smooth collaboration among the autonomous boards under NCISM.

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What is Ayurveda?
Definition
Ayurveda, meaning the “science of life,” is an ancient Indian medical system emphasizing a natural and holistic approach to physical and mental well-being.

Key Features

• Among the oldest healthcare systems globally, Ayurveda is deeply rooted in ancient texts.
• Focuses on preventive and curative care, blending diet, herbal remedies, yoga, and meditation.
• Remains an integral part of India’s traditional healthcare practices, influencing both modern wellness trends and global alternative medicine.

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By integrating programs like SMART 2.0, India aims to scientifically validate Ayurveda practices, enhancing its credibility and utility in modern healthcare

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