The Ministry of Health Conference Hall hosted a thought-provoking talk on “Food as Medicine” by the esteemed Dr Khader Vali, bringing together health professionals, development partners, and key stakeholders to explore the role of food in promoting health and preventing disease.
The session began with welcoming remarks from Dr Bhupinder Kaur Aulakh, WHO Representative to Bhutan, followed by an address from His Excellency Lyonpo Tandin Wangchuk, Minister for Health, who emphasized the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern health practices.
Dr Vali shared compelling, evidence-based insights on the healing benefits of foods such as millets in chronic diseases, capturing the audience’s keen interest.
Adding a personal dimension to the talk, Aum Kezang (Chuniding Food) and Mr Timothy Wilson of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office shared their lived experiences with food-based healing, while Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh, Senior Advisor to the WHO Director General, Global Centre for Traditional Medicine & Dr Pavan Kumar Godatwar, Technical Officer, WHO SEARO extended their full support to Bhutan in taking this agenda forward.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from the Director of the Department of Public Health, acknowledging all speakers and participants for their contributions to a successful and enriching session.