CCRAS launches SIDDHI 2.0 to strengthen research-driven innovation in the Ayurveda pharma sector
National platform introduced to accelerate evidence-based Ayurvedic product development
The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of Ayush, introduced the second edition of its industry–research interface initiative, SIDDHI 2.0 (Scientific Innovation in Drug Development, Healthcare & Integration), in Vijayawada. The two-day national conclave has been organised by the Regional Ayurveda Research Institute, Vijayawada, in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry, Vijayawada Zone.
The programme opened with an inaugural session attended by Prof. Vd. Rabinarayan Acharya, Director General, CCRAS; Shri K. Dinesh Kumar, IAS, Director (Ayush), Government of Andhra Pradesh; Dr N. Srikanth, Deputy Director General, CCRAS; Shri Kiran Bhupatiraju, CEO, Laila Nutra Pvt. Ltd. and Chemiloids Life Sciences Pvt. Ltd.; Dr V. Nagalakshmi, Chairperson, CII, Vijayawada Zone; and Dr B. Venkateshwarlu, Assistant Director (I/c), RARI, Vijayawada.
During the ceremony, CCRAS released its medico-historical publication titled “Evolution of Ayurveda, Siddha & Unani Drug Regulations in India” and launched the Drug Inventory Management System portal. The conclave has been positioned as a national platform advancing the scientific, industrial and commercial ecosystem of Ayurveda.
Building on the approach initiated under PRAGATI-2024 (Pharma Research in Ayurgan and Techno-Innovation), SIDDHI 2.0 represents a shift toward research-focused product development, indigenous technology advancement, rapid translational pathways and enhanced industry collaboration within the Ayush innovation landscape.
Key perspectives presented during the inaugural session
Prof. Rabinarayan Acharya noted the rise in lifestyle-related diseases and highlighted the relevance of Ayurveda’s wellness-oriented approach. He acknowledged CII’s role in facilitating engagement between CCRAS and the pharmaceutical sector through initiatives such as SIDDHI. Referring to various CCRAS programmes, including SPARK, SMART, PDF fellowships and research-methodology initiatives, he reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to collaborative research and assured that intellectual property generated through joint work would be shared fairly.
Shri K. Dinesh Kumar observed that the number of Ayurveda colleges and pharmaceutical units in Andhra Pradesh remains limited and proposed the creation of a National Ayurveda Institute. He stated that SIDDHI 2.0 brings together all major stakeholders and added that while modern science has extended lifespan, Ayurveda can contribute to improving the quality of life.
Dr N. Srikanth stated that CCRAS has validated more than 150 Ayurvedic formulations, including herbo-mineral preparations. He encouraged industry partners to make use of the Council’s data on quality, safety and toxicity and noted CCRAS’s industry-friendly research policy with provisions for sharing intellectual property. He also mentioned the Council’s support for Ayurveda-based, AI-enabled and other innovative start-ups.
Presenting an industry viewpoint, Mr. Kiran Bhupatiraju emphasised the need to modernise Ayurvedic herbs and formulations to enhance their global acceptance.
Dr V. Nagalakshmi remarked that the full potential of Ayurveda is yet to be achieved. She stressed the need to align research, education, manufacturing and industry development and noted that increased research activity will support industrial expansion and generate employment.
Technical sessions and stakeholder participation
The event included several technical sessions led by CCRAS experts and representatives from organisations such as Himalaya Wellness Company. CCRAS scientists presented research facilities, key outcomes, products and technologies, along with formulations under various stages of development. Potential collaboration areas between the Council and industry were also discussed. The first day saw active participation from stakeholders across the pharmaceutical sector, fostering discussions aimed at advancing evidence-based growth in the Ayurveda domain.
SIDDHI 2.0 recorded participation from more than 100 delegates, including representatives of over 25 leading Ayurvedic pharmaceutical companies from Southern India, such as Himalaya Wellness Company, Oushadhi, IMPCOPS, Laila Nutra Pvt. Ltd. and Imis Pharmaceuticals. Researchers, clinicians, academicians, State Ayush officials and postgraduate scholars from Dr NRS Ayurvedic College, Vijayawada, were also present.
Focus on strengthening translational pathways
Designed as a national translational accelerator, SIDDHI 2.0 aims to promote wider industry adoption of CCRAS technologies, reinforce institutional linkages, upgrade quality and regulatory frameworks and support the development of globally competitive Ayurvedic pharmaceuticals. By advancing scientific innovation and industry collaboration together, SIDDHI 2.0 contributes to building a modern, evidence-based and scalable future for Ayurveda aligned with India’s vision for holistic health.
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