Landmark Launch in Goa
Integrative Oncology Centre Launched at AIIA Goa: India inaugurated its first Integrative Oncology Research and Care Centre (IORCC) at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) in Dhargal, Goa. The event coincided with the 10th National Ayurveda Day, symbolizing a shift toward blending Ayush systems with modern oncology. This centre is designed as both a treatment hub and a research facility, offering patient-centric, evidence-informed cancer care.
Static GK fact: National Ayurveda Day is celebrated on Dhanvantari Jayanti, which usually falls in October or November.
Integrating Traditional and Modern Systems
The core aim of IORCC is to merge Ayurveda, Yoga, Panchakarma, and other Ayush therapies with chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation. This integrative approach focuses on reducing treatment side effects, improving immunity, and enhancing overall quality of life for cancer patients.
Static GK fact: The Ministry of Ayush was established in 2014, upgrading the earlier Department of Indian Systems of Medicine and Homeopathy.
Unique Features of the Centre
The IORCC stands out for its multidisciplinary healing model, where diverse therapies work together.
- Ayurveda and Panchakarma help in detoxification and immune support.
- Yoga and physiotherapy aid in physical and mental rehabilitation.
- Diet therapy ensures patient-specific nutritional support.
- Modern oncology care provides advanced medical treatment.
This framework makes it the first centre in India to deliver such comprehensive, holistic cancer care with scientific validation.
Institutional Collaborations
The centre collaborates with ACTREC (Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer), a unit of the Tata Memorial Centre in Mumbai. This partnership strengthens research credibility, ensuring that traditional therapies are backed by clinical safety and efficacy studies.
Static GK fact: The Tata Memorial Centre was established in 1941 and is one of Asia’s leading cancer treatment and research institutes.
Research and Training Role
Beyond treatment, IORCC is envisioned as a hub for academic training and research in integrative oncology. Its focus includes:
- Developing validated integrative protocols.
- Training healthcare professionals across systems.
- Building research capacity in Ayush-based cancer care.
This aligns with the government’s mission to establish Centres of Excellence in Ayush and boost global recognition of India’s traditional healing systems.
Static GK Tip: The WHO established the Global Centre for Traditional Medicine in Jamnagar, Gujarat, in 2022.
Key Takeaway
The IORCC at Goa represents a milestone in India’s healthcare system by bringing together the strengths of traditional Ayush therapies and modern oncology. It marks a new phase in holistic, research-driven cancer rehabilitation.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Integrative Oncology Centre Launched at AIIA Goa:
Topic | Detail |
Location of IORCC | AIIA, Dhargal, Goa |
Inauguration date | September 2025 |
Occasion | 10th National Ayurveda Day |
Ministry involved | Ministry of Ayush |
Collaborating institute | ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre |
Key therapies | Ayurveda, Panchakarma, Yoga, Diet therapy, Modern oncology |
Research focus | Integrative oncology protocols and training |
Ayush ministry formation | 2014 |
National Ayurveda Day | Observed on Dhanvantari Jayanti |
WHO Traditional Medicine Centre | Established in Jamnagar, Gujarat (2022) |