CCRAS launches SIDDHI 2.0 to strengthen research-driven innovation in Ayurveda pharma sector
National conclave in Vijayawada focuses on evidence-based product development
SIDDHI 2.0, or Scientific Innovation in Drug Development, Healthcare & Integration, has been introduced as a national industry research interface platform aimed at advancing evidence-based Ayurvedic product development. The initiative was launched by the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of Ayush, during a two-day national conclave held in Vijayawada. The event was organised by the Regional Ayurveda Research Institute, Vijayawada, in partnership with the Confederation of Indian Industry, Vijayawada Zone.
The inaugural session was 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 introduced a medico-historical publication titled Evolution of Ayurveda, Siddha & Unani Drug Regulations in India, along with the Drug Inventory Management System portal. The conclave has been positioned as a national platform aimed at advancing scientific, industrial and commercial efforts within the Ayurveda ecosystem.
Following the momentum generated by PRAGATI-2024, SIDDHI 2.0 reflects a shift toward research-focused product development, indigenous technological progress, faster translational pathways and expanded industry linkages. These themes form part of the broader Ayush innovation framework.
Speakers highlight research collaboration and sectoral needs
Prof. Rabinarayan Acharya stated that lifestyle-related disorders are increasing and noted the relevance of Ayurveda’s wellness-oriented framework. He acknowledged CII’s role in supporting engagement between CCRAS and the pharmaceutical sector through programmes such as SIDDHI. Referring to initiatives including SPARK, SMART, PDF fellowships and research methodology efforts, he reaffirmed CCRAS’s commitment to collaborative research and assured industry representatives that intellectual property emerging from joint initiatives would be shared fairly.
Shri K. Dinesh Kumar observed that Ayurveda colleges and pharmaceutical units in Andhra Pradesh remain limited in number and proposed the creation of a National Ayurveda Institute. He remarked that SIDDHI 2.0 brings key stakeholders together and highlighted that while modern science has extended lifespan, Ayurveda can contribute to a healthier lifespan.
Dr N. Srikanth stated that the Council has validated more than 150 Ayurvedic formulations, including herbo-mineral preparations. He encouraged industry partners to access CCRAS’s extensive data on quality, safety and toxicity assessments and referred to the Council’s industry-oriented research policy, which incorporates provisions for intellectual property sharing. He also mentioned CCRAS’s support for Ayurveda-based, AI-enabled, technology-driven and other innovative start-ups.
Representing the industry perspective, Mr. Kiran Bhupatiraju emphasised the need to modernise Ayurvedic herbs and formulations to enhance their global reach.
Dr V. Nagalakshmi commented that Ayurveda’s full potential has yet to be realised. She emphasised the need for alignment among research, education, manufacturing and industry growth and noted that increased research activity can stimulate industrial development and generate employment opportunities.
Technical sessions and participation
The conclave included several technical sessions led by experts from CCRAS and representatives from organisations such as Himalaya Wellness Company. CCRAS scientists presented research facilities, outcomes, technologies and formulations at different stages of development. Potential avenues for collaboration with industry partners were also discussed. The first day saw broad participation from pharmaceutical stakeholders, contributing to discussions on strengthening evidence-based progress in the Ayurveda sector.
SIDDHI 2.0 recorded participation from more than 100 delegates, including representatives of over 25 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, also took part.
Envisioned as a national translational accelerator, SIDDHI 2.0 aims to increase industry adoption of CCRAS technologies, strengthen institutional partnerships, enhance quality and regulatory systems and support the creation of globally competitive Ayurvedic pharmaceuticals. The initiative seeks to advance scientific innovation and industry collaboration in alignment with a wider national approach to holistic health.