On 25 October 2024, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India; the World Bank; and the Asian Development Bank, launched the Pandemic Fund Project in India, titled “Animal Health Security Strengthening in India for Pandemic Preparedness and Response.” This high-level ministerial event was attended by over 700 participants, including representatives from state animal husbandry departments, field veterinarians, multilateral organizations, industry bodies, and other key stakeholders.

Union Minister Mr Rajiv Ranjan Singh, alias Lalan Singh, commended the collaborative efforts of FAO, the World Bank, and the Asian Development Bank, stating, “Collaboration among global agencies with the Government of India reflects our shared commitment to building a resilient future for our people and the country”.

Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Prof SP Singh Baghel, also addressed the gathering, stressing the need for preventive health measures and responsible antimicrobial use to combat the threat of antimicrobial resistance.

FAO Representative in India, Mr Takayuki Hagiwara, emphasized the critical role of pandemic preparedness and highlighted the importance of robust animal health systems in mitigating zoonotic threats to human health. He highlighted, “This project is a testament to the power of partnership and the One Health approach, ensuring that human, animal, and environmental health work in tandem for a safer future”

The event was further graced by notable attendees, including Mr George Kurian; G20 Sherpa, Mr Amitabh Kant; Member (Health), NITI Aayog, Prof VK Paul; Secretary, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Ms Alka Upadhyaya, and Animal Husbandry Commissioner, Dr Abhijit Mitra.

The “Animal Health Security Strengthening in India for Pandemic Preparedness and Response” project focuses on fortifying India’s animal health systems to prepare for potential pandemics, employing a One Health approach to integrate human, animal, and environmental health sectors. Implemented in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), FAO, and the World Bank, this initiative is a vital step towards ensuring the resilience of India’s animal health systems against future health emergencies.

The event also marked the release of the Standard Veterinary Treatment Guidelines, developed by FAO India in collaboration with the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying. Funded by USAID, the document aims to serve as a national guide for veterinary care, improve livestock health and productivity and harmonize treatment protocols across the country.

Media outreach:

• The Hindu, 26 October 2024: Click here
• PIB Press Release, 25 October 2024: Click here