Chandigarh
18 October 2024
DIVYA AZAD
Renowned socio-economic analyst , an ardent advocate for mental health and Ayurveda expert Dr Monica B Sood stole the limelight at the prestigious Global Excellence in Leadership Summit and Awards-2024 (GELSA-2024) held recently at the UK Parliament with her thought provoking take on the multifaceted role that Ayurveda can play in ensuring people’s holistic wellness. Dr Sood is the visionary CEO of Navjivan Group headquartered at Chandigarh in the capital region and also Chairperson of the National Unity & Security Council in India. Dr Sood was recognized for her groundbreaking efforts in advancing global Ayurvedic wellness for which she was bestowed with the Global Excellence in Leadership Award at the UK Parliament.
“It was indeed a moment of pride for me to receive the award from Mr Gareth Bacon, a Member of the UK Parliament for Orpington,” said Dr Sood, who has made seminal contributions in making Ayurveda a globally acknowledged system of holistic health. The award highlights her remarkable leadership in expanding Ayurvedic wellness across 40 countries through Navjivan Group, offering wellness solutions that have touched lives worldwide.
Dr Sood, who spoke for 10 minutes also highlighted the need for a well-crafted bilateral roadmap for India and the UK to further expand and strengthen the ties between two friendly nations. The event, which was organized by Movastacon Foundation, had brought together international leaders to discuss global relations, economic cooperation, and leadership in the 21st century.
In her acceptance speech, Dr Sood said: “India is undergoing yet another phase of transformation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ayurveda plays a crucial role in that transformation. Our ancient tradition has become a global beacon for holistic health and healing. I firmly believe that our collaboration with the UK can further extend Ayurveda’s reach, bringing its benefits to millions worldwide.”
Dr Sood elaborated on India’s rapid economic progress and highlighted Ayurveda’s potential as a key element of India-UK healthcare collaboration by 2030, particularly with the National Health Service (NHS). She emphasized how integrating Ayurvedic solutions could offer holistic treatments, providing an alternative to traditional medical systems while easing the pressure on public healthcare.
She further outlined a visionary blueprint for the future of India-UK relations, which she believes will play a pivotal role in the global rise of both nations. According to Dr Sood, by 2030, this partnership should be strengthened through enhanced trade and investment, particularly in sectors such as technology, green energy, healthcare, and financial services. She emphasized that the Indian diaspora in the UK plays a critical role in shaping this partnership and will continue to strengthen the bonds between the two nations.
Reflecting on the defence and security aspects of the relationship, Dr Sood highlighted the potential for greater cooperation between India and the UK in areas such as joint military exercises, technology sharing, and defence manufacturing, all of which would bolster global peace and stability. She also stressed the urgent need for collaboration in combating climate change, envisioning joint efforts in renewable energy and sustainability initiatives that could lead the way in addressing this global challenge.
It is worth mentioning that GELSA 2024 celebrated leadership, collaboration, and excellence in global partnerships, with a special focus on enhancing India-UK relations, economic growth, and healthcare collaboration for a prosperous future.
