West Bengal

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; Howrah, June 10: The renewed sense of optimism has emerged among practitioners and researchers of alternative medicine in West Bengal following the announcement of a separate AYUSH department, distinct from the state health department. The move, aimed at giving greater importance to Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy systems of medicine, has been welcomed by stakeholders who believe it could significantly boost research, recognition, and expansion of these medical practices.

Special attention has turned to the Indian Research Institute for Integrated Medicine (IRIM) located in Maurigram, Howrah. The institution has been actively engaged for over four decades in treatment, training, and research in acupuncture, yoga, and naturopathy. Medical professionals associated with alternative healthcare believe that the creation of a dedicated AYUSH department could open new opportunities for institutions like IRIM, enabling them to expand their work and reach a larger population.

IRIM was originally established in 1981 in a rented house in Kolkata by a group of acupuncture practitioners and researchers. The initiative was influenced by students of Dr. Bijoy Kumar Basu, a pioneer in acupuncture treatment in India, with Dr. Debashis Bakshi being one of its key founding doctors. In 1990, the institution was relocated to Andul in Howrah, and later, in 1998, it began full-scale operations from its present facility near Maurigram railway station.

Today, patients from across West Bengal and even other states visit IRIM for treatment. According to the institution’s doctors, acupuncture has shown positive results in treating conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic pain, arthritis, neurological disorders, skin diseases, insomnia, allergies, and several complex health issues. The therapy is a drug-free treatment method in which fine stainless steel needles are inserted at specific points on the body to stimulate the nervous system and activate the body’s natural healing processes.

Doctors at IRIM claim that many patients who had not found relief through conventional treatments over long periods have experienced significant improvement after undergoing acupuncture therapy. Patient experiences have also reportedly supported these claims, with individuals recovering from chronic conditions such as long-standing back pain and injury-related complications.

Dr. Debashis Bakshi has stated that acupuncture is now one of the most widely recognized alternative medical systems globally. He noted that the World Health Organization (WHO) recognized acupuncture in 1979 and has since acknowledged its effectiveness in treating various medical conditions. He further emphasized the need for full governmental recognition of acupuncture in India, along with the development of structured educational and training frameworks.

IRIM, regarded as the only dedicated acupuncture hospital in West Bengal, plays a significant role not only in treatment but also in research and training. The institution houses a specialized library and archive on acupuncture that is considered one of the most important in the country. Many trained practitioners from IRIM are now working across different parts of India, contributing to the growth of alternative medicine.

The institute also runs dedicated departments for yoga and naturopathy, promoting an integrated approach to healthcare. These holistic practices are considered essential components of alternative medicine and are actively promoted through various programs and therapies.

The proposed AYUSH department becomes fully operational, experts believe it could accelerate the development of alternative healthcare systems in the state. Institutions like IRIM in Maurigram, Howrah are expected to play a key role in strengthening AYUSH infrastructure and expanding access to holistic healthcare services across West Bengal.

The institute regularly observes International Yoga Day on June 21 each year, with large-scale participation from the public. Through such initiatives, IRIM continues to promote yoga practice and awareness among common people, contributing to the wider acceptance of alternative medicine in society.