Kathmandu: The Ministry of Health and Population has endorsed guidelines to effectively and systematically implement the Swarnaprashan program, which is rooted in classical Ayurvedic texts. The decision, made at the ministerial level, aims to ensure the safe, hygienic, and effective administration of Swarnaprashan drops among children.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the guideline’s primary goal is to preserve this ancient Ayurvedic oral immunization technique while ensuring its compliance with modern safety and quality standards. The Swarnaprashan drops, comprising various herbal drugs, ghee, honey, and Swarna Bhasma (purified gold) in different combinations, are designed to enhance immunity, intellect, and strength in children.
The administration of Swarnaprashan drops occurs monthly on the auspicious Pushya Nakshyatra, as per the lunar calendar, from designated health institutions under the direct supervision of Ayurvedic doctors and health workers. The program targets children between six months and five years, excluding those suffering from fever, indigestion, diarrhea, cold, and cough.
Launched as a national program this fiscal year, Swarnaprashan is expected to promote maternal and child health, ensuring holistic development for infants and new mothers. The Ministry plans to gradually implement this program in Ayurvedic institutions across all local levels in the country by next year.
The program will guide 21 Ayurvedic health centers, Ayurvedic Hospitals, and Ayurvedic Teaching Hospitals nationwide. In its first phase, it will be implemented in various Provincial Ayurvedic Hospitals in Lakhanpur of Jhapa district, Parsa district, Pokhara, Bijauri in Dang district, and Dhangadi of Kailali district. In Bagmati Province, the program will be enforced at Tribhuvan University Ayurvedic Teaching Hospital in Kirtipur, Ayurvedic Hospital in Nardevi, and Ayurvedic Panchakarma and Yoga Service Centre in Budhanilakantha.