New Delhi, Dec 10 (IANS): A large number of research institutes as well as 80 private organisations are expected to participate in 'Arogya', a four-day fair on Indian systems of medicine, that begins in Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh on Saturday.

"Central research councils and national institutes in the 'Ayush' system of medicine along with National Medicinal Plant Board (NMPB), Indian Medicines Pharmaceuticals Corporation Ltd (IMPCL), and about 80 private Ayush industries will showcase their strength in research, education and development of products to promote healthcare," a statement from the union Ministry of Ayush said on Thursday.

'Ayush' stands for Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy.

The fair is to be hosted by Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and inaugurated by Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush Shripad Yesso Naik.

The statement said Ayush companies of five countries had confirmed their participation in the Arogya fair. 

The ministry has been organising Arogya fair in the major cities in India since 2005 to promote awareness and showcase development in various Ayush systems.