ICAR-NIVEDI Plans for National Animal Disease Centre in Bengaluru

The ICAR-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (NIVEDI) in Bengaluru held a significant meeting on April 5, 2024, led by Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary of the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India. The focus of the meeting was to discuss NIVEDI's progress in understanding and managing diseases in the livestock sector.

Upadhyaya emphasized NIVEDI's achievements in studying and predicting diseases in livestock, showing how they are taking proactive steps to handle them. She also suggested a collaborative effort across the nation to address the challenge of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and control.

Key Officials of the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Govt. of India highlighted various crucial aspects:

Dr. Abhijit Mitra, the Commissioner, acknowledged the institute’s efforts in managing national animal disease control programs, specifically targeting diseases like Brucellosis, PPR, and CSF.

Varsha Joshi, Additional Secretary (CDD/IT), highlighted the importance of using AI and machine learning in disease management. Sarita Chauhan, Joint Secretary (LH), noted the need to integrate zoonotic disease studies and public awareness into all projects. G.N Singh, Joint Secretary (Admin/Trade/GC/IC), advised increased exports of livestock products, emphasizing the economic benefits associated with expanding the export market.

Dr. B.R. Gulati, Director of ICAR-NIVEDI, revealed plans for establishing the National Animal Disease Information & Control Centre as part of the National Digital Livestock Mission, reflecting a commitment to leveraging technology for proactive disease management. Dr. Bhushan Tyagi, Joint Commissioner (RGM), along with other officials, actively participated in the discussion.

The meeting called for a collective effort towards enhancing resilience, sustainability, and innovation within the animal husbandry and dairying sector, aiming to fortify India's agricultural and economic landscape.