DAHD and FAO Host Workshop on “One Health Communication Strategy”
The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, hosted a significant workshop in New Delhi on June 20, 2025. This event, part of a project funded by the Pandemic Fund, aimed to develop a One Health Communication Strategy to enhance animal health systems and pandemic preparedness in India. The workshop gathered various stakeholders to create a strategic communication framework focused on public awareness of zoonotic diseases and biosecurity.
Collaborative Efforts for Health Security
The workshop brought together representatives from government agencies, international organizations, academia, research institutions, and the media. This diverse group aimed to initiate the development of a comprehensive communication roadmap that is science-based and people-centric. Discussions during the event emphasized the importance of raising public awareness about zoonotic diseases and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Participants focused on crafting audience-specific messages and engaging grassroots communities to ensure effective communication.
Insights from Key Officials
Animal Husbandry Commissioner Dr. Abhijit Mitra highlighted the necessity of a clear communication strategy to meet the objectives of the Pandemic Fund project. He stressed that effective communication serves as a vital tool for behavior change, inter-sectoral coordination, and risk mitigation. Dr. Mitra stated, “We must use simple, locally understood language to ensure that messages truly reach and resonate with communities.” His remarks underscored the importance of delivering the right message to the appropriate audience at the right time.
Dr. Konda Chavva, Assistant FAO Representative in India, also emphasized the role of communication within the One Health framework. He described it as a crucial link between knowledge and behavior, as well as between policy and practice. According to Dr. Chavva, effective communication ensures that initiatives translate into tangible actions and impacts on the ground.
Media’s Role in Amplifying One Health Messaging
A notable feature of the workshop was a media panel discussion that included senior editors and journalists from prominent outlets such as BBC News, ET Edge, and Down to Earth magazine. This session explored how the media can enhance One Health messaging, combat misinformation, and foster public trust through transparent, science-informed storytelling. The discussions also highlighted the ongoing development of the One Health Strategy Document, which aims to guide collaborative actions across the animal, human, and environmental health sectors.
Participants engaged in technical sessions and group exercises focused on message design, risk communication, and cross-sector coordination, reinforcing the importance of a unified approach to health security.
Commitment to the One Health Agenda
India remains dedicated to advancing the One Health agenda by strengthening disease surveillance, enhancing frontline capacities, and promoting inclusive public engagement. The strategic and coordinated communication efforts discussed during the workshop are essential for building a resilient health security ecosystem in the country. By fostering collaboration among various sectors, India aims to improve its preparedness and response to future pandemics, ensuring the health and safety of its population.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
