This academy is situated in the city of Aligarh. The academy is named after Abu Ali Ibn Sina, a well known name in Unani medicines. The institution, in the year 2008, was conferred the status of ‘Centre of Excellence’ by Indian government. This academy is having an emphasis on knowledge of Unani system of medicines. Unani system has roots in the teachings of the Greek physicians, Hippocrates and Galen. This system was further developed in the middle age era by Arabian and Persian physicians. Ibn Sina, also known as Avicenna, was a well known name in the eleventh century, in the field of medicines. Ibn Sina had all the contemporary knowledge of Greek and Islamic medicinal science. He additionally had the advantage of good understanding of prevailing teachings of Indian medical science. Thus, it was most appropriate to name the present academy after him, as a sign of respect.

History

The history of IAMMS can be fully understood, only by knowledge of Unani medicine history. Most medical researchers have acknowledged the fact that medieval physicians and scientists have played a very major role in the development. The achievement came through hard work of translating earlier findings and research documents. The subsequent dominance of the European medical system, partly overshadowed other medical systems of the region. The resultant effect was neglect of non European medical systems. A country like India realized immense need to encourage all medical systems.

Tibbi Academy was formed in 1963 at Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh. Tibbi Academy’s clear objective was to encourage Unani medicine. Majlis Ibn Sina was formed in 1965 under the aegis of Tibbi Academy. Majlis Ibn Sina was initially a monthly discussion group of medical practitioners.  Later, Tibbi Academy was converted into another organization. All these entities finally merged in the year 2000 to form a trustee organization. The given name of this unified entity is the Ibn Sina Academy of Medieval Medicine and Sciences. Next year, the organization started functioning from the city of Aligarh in Uttar Pradesh.

Facilities

Library

Innumerable books and manuscripts are preserved in the library. The valuable collection of 20,000 books and 500 manuscripts is a real treasure. Additional knowledge sources in the form of microfilms and compact discs are also carefully maintained. Books on the subjects of medicine and pharmacology, in many languages like Arabic, Persian, Urdu, Sanskrit, and English are being preserved and studied.

Museum

All historical elements related to medieval medicine and science form a unique collection. Pictures and busts of medieval luminaries, who contributed to progress in medical science, are kept in the museum. Their presence at the museum underlines the importance of dedication of these great people. All civilizations in medieval era like, Babylonian, Egyptian, Greek, Arab, and Indian find representation in the museum. Philatelic stamps and souvenirs at the museum add a fascinating touch to the ambience.

Study Centers

A centre is working for Safety and Rational use of Indian System of Medicines. Another centre is dedicated to study of Urdu poetry, particularly of Mirza Ghalib. A special cell for research on AIDS control is working at the academy.

Visitor Information

Visitors can visit IAMMS at Tijara House in Aligarh during working hours on a working day. Access to certain sections can be granted by special permission.

How to Reach

By Road

Aligarh is a major city of Uttar Pradesh. Aligarh is 140 kms away from New Delhi and 88 kms away from Agra. Aligarh is 337 kms away from the state capital city of Lucknow. Aligarh is well connected to all these cities, through Expressways and Highways.

By Train

Rail Network connects Aligarh to all big cities in the region. New Delhi, Agra, and Lucknow are also well connected. Convenient train schedules make train travel hassle free.

By Air

Aligarh does not have commercial flights. Airports of Agra and New Delhi are used by domestic or international tourists to visit Aligarh.