Vet Varsity Inaugurates 21-Day ICAR Sponsored One Health Winter School Program

Ludhiana, February 20, 2024: The Centre for One Health, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University inaugurated a 21-day winter school program sponsored by Indian Council for Agricultural research (ICAR) on "Applied Concepts in One Health to Address Zoonoses, Antimicrobial Resistance, and Food Safety".

Dr. J.P.S. Gill, the Director of Research of the University, warmly welcomed the participants alongside the esteemed guests, Dr. Inderjeet Singh, Vice-Chancellor; Dr. Sindura Ganapathy, Fellow Principal Scientific Advisor, Government of India; and Dr. Sandeep Puri, Principal of Dayanand Medical College & Hospital, Ludhiana. Dr. Gill commenced the event by providing a comprehensive overview of the Centre for One Health's activities, highlighting its pivotal role in addressing complex issues concerning human, animal and environmental health.

A total of 25 scientists participants from various organizations across India have enthusiastically joined this training program, poised to delve into the multifaceted aspects of the One Health approach. Dr. Inderjeet Singh, Vice-Chancellor the Chief Guest, emphasized on the evolving role of One Health in confronting emerging public health challenges. Dr. Singh and other dignitaries released the training compendium, the activity handbook of the Centre for One Health, and a Pocket Guide to Foot-and-Mouth Disease in Bovines, symbolizing the commitment to equipping participants with comprehensive resources. Dr. Sundar Ganapathy stressed the imperative need for collaboration and teamwork to effectively address issues pertaining to food safety, zoonoses, and antimicrobial resistance. He shed light on the significant role played by the Government of India in coordinating efforts across national, state, and local health agencies to enhance human and animal health through the One Health approach. Dr. Sandeep Puri underscored the formidable challenge posed by antibiotic resistance and advocated for community awareness campaigns to mitigate its impact. He emphasized the need to further strengthen the collaborations between human and animal health professionals to tackle the endemic and emerging zoonoses.

Dr. J.S. Bedi, the Director of the Centre for One Health, expressed gratitude to all the dignitaries, participants, faculty and officers of the university for gracing the occasion. The event concluded on a promising note, with participants geared up to leverage their newfound knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully towards the promotion of holistic health and well-being in society.