Union Minister Inaugurates Animal Health Conclave, Emphasizes 'One Health' Concept

Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Parshottam Rupala, inaugurated the ‘Animal Health Conclave’ (Pashu Swasthya Sammelan) on December 18 in New Delhi. The event marked a pioneering exploration of cutting-edge vaccines and precision diagnostics in the animal health sector, organized jointly by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Indian Immunological Limited (IIL).

During his address, Parshottam Rupala emphasized the significance of the 'One Health' concept deeply rooted in Indian tradition and culture. Drawing parallels with the concept of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,' which means the world is one family, he highlighted the interconnectedness of all living beings—underscoring the importance of harmonious coexistence among humans, animals, and the environment.

The Minister commended India's substantial vaccination endeavors, dedication to eliminating major diseases, and initiatives in pandemic preparedness, emphasizing the crucial role of the One Health approach in ensuring the well-being of both animal and public health.

Animal Husbandry Commissioner Dr. Abhijit Mitra, speaking on the occasion, emphasized the critical nature of the upcoming time for the country and stressed the need for preparedness with vaccines to prevent diseases among livestock. He urged vaccine manufacturers to produce cost-effective and efficient vaccines using newer and innovative technologies and vaccine platforms, facilitating access for livestock farmers.

Meenesh Shah, Chairman and Managing Director of NDDB and IIL, addressed the challenges in the Indian livestock and vaccination sector during the conclave. Technical sessions covered a range of topics, including the WHO-PQ Process in Animal Health, Decarbonization of Vaccine Manufacturing, AI's (Artificial Intelligence) role in disease prevention, Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Public Health Policy in the One Health framework, and Modern Approaches to Animal Diagnostics for Field Deployment, all aimed at shaping the sector with innovation and precision.

The technical sessions, at the core of the event, featured in-depth discussions on new vaccine technology, the decarbonization of vaccine manufacturing, AMR Management with the One Health Approach, AI applications in disease surveillance, and modern approaches to diagnostics for field deployment.

This successful event brought together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders, paving the way for progress in the animal health sector. The exchange of knowledge and ideas hold promise for advancements in vaccine technology, diagnostics, and the overall well-being of animals.