University of Patanjali as Yoga Ayurveda Cluster Centre

Institutional Recognition Under Gyan Bharatam

University of Patanjali as Yoga Ayurveda Cluster Centre: The University of Patanjali has been designated as India’s first Yoga and Ayurveda-based Cluster Centre under the Gyan Bharatam Mission. This recognition places the university at the centre of India’s institutional efforts to preserve and promote ancient knowledge systems.

The initiative reflects a structured national approach to safeguarding traditional intellectual heritage. It also strengthens the role of universities as custodians of classical Indian wisdom.

Static GK fact: The Gyan Bharatam Mission functions under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.

Gyan Bharatam Mission Framework

The Gyan Bharatam Mission focuses on identifying, conserving, digitising, and disseminating India’s manuscript wealth. It aims to integrate traditional knowledge with formal academic research.

The mission adopts a cluster-based model. Selected institutions act as mentors, guiding multiple associated centres across the country.

Static GK Tip: India possesses one of the world’s largest collections of ancient manuscripts, spanning subjects like medicine, philosophy, astronomy, and linguistics.

Role of University of Patanjali

As a Cluster Centre, the University of Patanjali will mentor 20 associated institutions nationwide. Its responsibilities include research coordination, academic training, digitisation of manuscripts, and knowledge dissemination.

The university has already preserved more than 50,000 ancient texts. Over 42 lakh manuscript pages have been digitised, ensuring long-term accessibility and conservation.

Additionally, the institution has republished 40 classical manuscripts, helping revive rare texts for contemporary scholarship.

Formalisation of the Status

The designation was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding signed in Haridwar. The event was attended by Swami Ramdev, Vice-Chancellor Dr Acharya Balkrishna, and Dr Anirban Dash, Project Director of Gyan Bharatam.

The MoU outlines academic collaboration, institutional mentoring, and long-term preservation strategies. It also establishes clear responsibilities for the cluster centre.

Static GK fact: Haridwar is traditionally regarded as a major centre for Yoga, Ayurveda, and Vedic learning.

National Importance of the Appointment

According to mission officials, the appointment highlights India’s commitment to protecting cultural identity through institutional leadership. Traditional knowledge systems are being positioned as foundations for global academic engagement.

Dr Acharya Balkrishna noted that 33 MoUs have been signed under the mission so far. These include 20 cluster centres involving eight universities across India.

The University of Patanjali is the first institution exclusively focused on Yoga and Ayurveda to receive this status, making the recognition historically significant.

Linking Ancient Knowledge With Modern Academia

The cluster centre will work to align Yoga and Ayurveda manuscripts with contemporary academic frameworks. Research outputs are expected to contribute to health sciences, philosophy, and interdisciplinary studies.

By mentoring multiple institutions, the university will help standardise preservation methods and research practices. This approach ensures continuity, accuracy, and wider dissemination of traditional knowledge.

Static GK Tip: Yoga was recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2016.

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University of Patanjali as Yoga Ayurveda Cluster Centre: