Strengthening Pandemic Preparedness in Animal Health
On January 10, 2025, Hyderabad hosted a significant event focused on enhancing pandemic preparedness in animal health. The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, in collaboration with Indian Immunologicals Limited and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), organized a “Conclave on Pandemic Preparedness & Vaccine Innovation.” This conclave brought together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss strategies for improving veterinary infrastructure and vaccine development.
Inauguration and Keynote Address
The conclave was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Vinod K Paul, a prominent member of NITI AAYOG, who served as the Chief Guest. In his keynote address, Dr. Paul highlighted the urgent need to strengthen veterinary infrastructure to effectively combat future pandemics. He emphasized the importance of enhancing diagnostic facilities for early detection of diseases. This early detection is crucial for a rapid response to emerging threats.
Dr. Paul also stressed the necessity of developing advanced platforms for the production of next-generation animal vaccines. These vaccines play a vital role in preventing zoonotic diseases, which can affect both animal and human health. He advocated for a comprehensive approach to health, known as the One Health approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health. Dr. Paul proposed a 100-day timeline for pandemic preparedness, suggesting that this proactive strategy could significantly improve the nation’s ability to respond to future health crises.
Government Initiatives and Funding
Ms. Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary of the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, also spoke at the conclave. She pointed out the need for increased government investment in animal health. According to her, better funding would lead to improved productivity in the livestock sector. She emphasized the importance of enhancing supply chain and cold chain systems to ensure effective last-mile delivery of vaccines and other health services.
Dr. Abhijit Mitra, the Animal Husbandry Commissioner, echoed these sentiments by stressing the importance of vaccine security. He highlighted the need for pre-qualifications for animal vaccines to ensure their safety and efficacy. The discussions at the conclave underscored the government’s commitment to improving animal health and ensuring that the livestock sector is well-prepared for any future health challenges.
Focus on One Health and Technological Advancements
The conclave aimed to deepen the understanding of the One Health concept, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Participants discussed various aspects of pandemic preparedness, including enhancing vaccination programs and improving livestock health. They also explored the importance of building resilient supply chains to ensure that vaccines and medical supplies reach those in need during a crisis.
Advancements in technology were a significant focus of the discussions. Experts talked about the role of artificial intelligence in healthcare, the potential of cell and gene therapy vaccines, and the regulatory pathways for vaccine approval. These innovations could revolutionize how vaccines are developed and distributed, making it easier to respond to emerging health threats.
India’s Role as a Global Vaccine Hub
India has established itself as a global vaccine hub, producing over 60% of the world’s vaccines. More than 50% of vaccine manufacturers are based in Hyderabad, making it a critical center for vaccine development. The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is implementing the world’s largest vaccination program for livestock, with full financial support from the Central Government.
This program includes vaccinations against diseases such as Foot & Mouth Disease, Brucellosis, and Peste des Petits Ruminants. The government has conducted over 102 crore vaccinations against Foot & Mouth Disease alone. Each vaccinated animal receives a unique identification number, recorded in the Bharat Pashudhan, or National Digital Livestock Mission. This system tracks vaccination schedules and ensures traceability, significantly reducing the incidence of major livestock diseases in the country. The conclave in Hyderabad marks a crucial step towards enhancing pandemic preparedness in animal health. By fostering collaboration among various stakeholders and emphasizing the importance of innovative solutions, India is poised to strengthen its response to future health challenges.
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