World Homoeopathy Day is observed every year on April 10 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Samuel Hahnemann, the founder of Homoeopathy. The theme for 2026 is “Homoeopathy for Sustainable Health”, highlighting the role of this system in holistic, preventive, and sustainable healthcare. India has one of the largest homoeopathy workforces globally, reflecting its deep integration into the country’s healthcare system.
About Homoeopathy
- Founded in the late 18th century by Samuel Hahnemann
- Based on the principle: “Like cures like”
- Derived from Greek words:
- Homois (similar)
- Pathos (suffering)
- Guided by the classical text Organon of Medicine
Key Features
- Uses natural substances (plants, minerals, animal products)
- Prepared through dilution and succussion
- Administered as tablets, globules, liquids
- Focuses on individualised treatment (physical and mental condition)
Homoeopathy in India
- Introduced around 1810 by European/German practitioners
- Early practitioner: John Martin Honigberger
- Gained popularity after treating Maharaja Ranjit Singh (1839)
Current Status
- 3.45 lakh registered doctors
- 8,593 dispensaries
- 277 educational institutions
- 34 research centres
India is a global leader in homoeopathy practice and workforce.
Historical Milestones
- 1847: Early homoeopathic hospital in Tanjore
- Promoted by Rajendra Lal Dutta (Bengal)
- Supported by Mahendra Lal Sircar
- Expansion in Calcutta, Banaras, Allahabad
Post-Independence Developments
- 1973: Central Council of Homoeopathy established
- 1978: Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH)
- 2014: Formation of Ministry of AYUSH
These steps strengthened regulation, research, and institutional growth.
Key Institutions
Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy
- HQ: New Delhi
- Promotes scientific research and clinical validation
- Network of 33 institutes/units
National Commission for Homoeopathy
- Established under NCH Act, 2020 (effective 2021)
- Replaced Central Council of Homoeopathy
- Regulates education and practice standards
Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine and Homoeopathy
- Ensures quality, safety, and standardisation of medicines
- Acts as central drug testing and appellate laboratory
Government Schemes Supporting Homoeopathy
- National AYUSH Mission (NAM): Integrates AYUSH systems into public healthcare
- AYURSWASTHYA: Improves institutional quality and research
- AYURGYAN: Capacity building for practitioners
- Extra Mural Research (EMR) Scheme: Promotes scientific validation
- AOGUSY Scheme: Enhances quality and regulation of AYUSH medicines
Significance
- Promotes preventive, affordable, and holistic healthcare
- Strengthens India’s traditional medicine systems
- Supports global acceptance of alternative medicine