Scientific patents Ayurveda, Sidda medicines needed: Sonia

Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 15 (UNI) Pointing out that effective treatment was available in Ayurveda and Siddha for many critical ailments, Congress president and United Progressive Alliance chairperson Sonia Gandhi today stressed the need for more scientific patents to such medicines.

Addressing a gathering after laying the foundation stone for Santhigiri Research Foundation at Pothenkode, about 30 km from here, she said ''many critical ailments that do not have proper drugs in modern medicine are being successfully treated with traditional medicines of Ayurveda and Siddha.'' Pointing out the importance of scientific research in this field and other areas, she said ''without research we cannot extend the frontiers of knowledge and understanding.'' Stating that the scientific advances must also, most fundamentally make physical difference in the society, she said ''we should not allow the advance to increase the disparity in the society.'' Lauding the activities of the Santhigiri Ashramam, she said its founder Karunakara Guru was both a social reformer and a spiritual leader.

Mrs Gandhi said his messages of universal love, brotherhood and total rejection of caste was relevant even now.

Defence Minister A K Antony and Leader of the Opposition Oommen Chandy were present.

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