SANDEEP KUMAR |:- Professor Pradeep Kumar Prajapati formally assumed charge as the Director of the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi today, marking a new chapter in the institute’s journey towards excellence in Ayurveda education, research, and clinical practice.
Prior to this appointment, Professor Prajapati served as the Vice-Chancellor of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Rajasthan Ayurved University, Jodhpur, and has had a long association with Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar, contributing significantly to research and academic development. He began his career as an Assistant Professor at the National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA), Jaipur, and holds a BAMS degree from Gurukul Kangri University, with MD and PhD from Banaras Hindu University (BHU). His tenure as Director has been approved by the Union Cabinet for a period of five years or until superannuation, whichever is earlier.
A formal welcome ceremony was organised at AIIA, beginning with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and a Dhanvantari Vandana. Former Executive Director Prof. Manjusha Rajagopal, Dean (PhD) Prof. Mahesh Vyas, and a large gathering of academic, medical, administrative, and nursing staff extended a warm welcome with floral bouquets.
In his first address as Director, Professor Prajapati stated:
“It is a matter of great pride and honour to serve Ayurveda at this esteemed institution. With the government’s vision of taking Ayurveda to the masses, I am confident that, with collective support, AIIA will achieve global recognition in the years to come.”
Former Executive Director Prof. Rajagopal emphasised the importance of team spirit and collaborative work, while Dean Prof. Vyas highlighted that Professor Prajapati’s experience with premier Ayurvedic institutions will strengthen AIIA’s global footprint.
Immediately after assuming charge, Professor Prajapati participated in the valedictory session of a Continuing Medical Education (CME) program for faculty, where he also performed the ceremonial lamp lighting.
This leadership transition reinforces AIIA’s commitment to advancing Ayurvedic education, research, and clinical services, while fostering innovation and global recognition in traditional medicine.
