Animal Health Security Project

Context : The central government has launched the ‘Animal Health Security Strengthening in India for Pandemic Preparedness and Response’ initiative. This initiative focuses on improving animal health monitoring to prevent future pandemics, recognizing that approximately two-thirds of human infectious diseases originate in animals. Here is an overview of the initiative:

Key Details of the Initiative

• Launched by: The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.

• Aim: To enhance monitoring of animal health, which is crucial to preventing potential pandemics.

• Objective: The main goal is to strengthen animal health security to prepare for and respond to possible pandemics, given the high prevalence of zoonotic diseases (diseases originating in animals).

• Importance: This project highlights the critical role of animal health in protecting public health from zoonotic diseases, underscoring the need for integrated health security.

• Approval and Funding: The project was approved by the Pandemic Fund, created by G20 countries during Indonesia’s presidency in 2022. The fund aims to help low- and middle-income countries build their capacity to detect, report, and control future pandemics.

• Implementing Agencies: The project will be carried out by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the World Bank, and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). It is scheduled to be completed by August 2026.

Key Expected Outcomes

1. Laboratory and Vaccine Manufacturing Enhancements: Upgrading laboratories and vaccine production facilities to support rapid response.

2. Strengthened Surveillance and Early Warning Systems: Improved systems for detecting and responding to potential zoonotic threats early.

3. Human Resource Development: Building a skilled workforce with enhanced capacity and competencies in animal health.

4. Data and Risk Management Improvements: Developing better data systems, analytics, risk analysis, and communication strategies.

5. Institutional Capacity Building: Addressing gaps in institutional capabilities at both national and regional levels to ensure comprehensive preparedness.

This initiative represents a significant step in integrating animal health into pandemic preparedness, aiming to protect both human and animal populations from future health crises.