The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), Ministry of Ayush, launched the second edition of its flagship industry–research interface initiative, SIDDHI 2.0 (Scientific Innovation in Drug Development, Healthcare & Integration), in Vijayawada. This national industry research interface platform aims to accelerate evidence-based Ayurvedic product development. The two-day national conclave was organized by the Regional Ayurveda Research Institute (RARI), Vijayawada, in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Vijayawada Zone.
SIDDHI 2.0 builds on the momentum created by PRAGATI-2024 (Pharma Research in Ayurgan and Techno-Innovation) and marks a strategic shift towards research-led product development, indigenous technology advancement, accelerated translational pathways, and industry partnerships.
CCRAS Initiatives and Industry Support
The Director General, CCRAS, reiterated the Council’s commitment to collaborative research and highlighted various CCRAS initiatives including SPARK, SMART, PDF fellowships, and research-methodology programmes. He assured industry stakeholders that Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) generated through joint work would be shared equitably.
The Deputy Director General, CCRAS, informed that the Council has validated over 150 Ayurvedic formulations, including herbo-mineral preparations. He encouraged the industry to utilize CCRAS’s extensive data, which spans quality, safety, and toxicity studies, and highlighted the organization’s industry-friendly research policy.
During the inaugural ceremony, CCRAS unveiled new initiatives:
- The medico-historical publication, “Evolution of Ayurveda, Siddha & Unani Drug Regulations in India,” was released.
- The Drug Inventory Management System portal was also released.
Industry and Academic Participation
The conclave served as a major national platform advancing the scientific, industrial, and commercial ecosystem of Ayurveda. Over 100 delegates participated, including representatives from more than 25 leading Ayurvedic pharmaceutical companies from Southern India (such as Himalaya Wellness Company, Oushadhi, and Laila Nutra Pvt. Ltd.).
Technical sessions were led by experts from CCRAS and representatives of organizations like Himalaya Wellness Company. CCRAS scientists showcased facilities, key research outcomes, products, and technologies under various stages of development, focusing discussions on possible areas of collaboration with industries.
SIDDHI 2.0 is envisioned as a national translational accelerator, aiming to promote wider industry adoption of CCRAS technologies, strengthen institutional linkages, upgrade quality and regulatory frameworks, and support the development of globally competitive Ayurvedic pharmaceuticals.