The Centre has decided to bring public-private partnerships (PPP) in areas such as vaccine platforms, veterinary workforce development, institutional infrastructure and the creation of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD)-free zones.

About the Workshop

• Organized By: Union Animal Husbandry and Dairying Ministry in collaboration with the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).
• Focus Areas:
  • Vaccine platforms
  • Veterinary workforce development
  • Institutional infrastructure
  • Creation of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD)-free zones
• Objectives of the Workshop
  • Addressing Gaps: Discussing ways to fill critical gaps in veterinary services.
  • Expanding Infrastructure: Establishing NABL-accredited veterinary labs at the district level.
  • Strengthening Disease Control: Enhancing surveillance and developing FMD-free zones.
  • Building Workforce Capacity: Structured training and knowledge-sharing platforms.
  • Vaccine Production: Developing a robust vaccine value chain.
  • Defining PPP Policy: Creating a policy framework for integrating private sector expertise.

About veterinary services

Veterinary services provide healthcare to animals, including pets, farm animals, zoo animals, and wildlife. This includes:

• Domestic Animals: Dogs, cats, and other pets.
• Exotic Animals and Reptiles: Animals like parrots, snakes, and lizards.
• Large Animals: Farm animals such as cows, horses, and sheep.

Role of Private Sector Collaboration in Veterinary Services

Private sector collaboration is important for improving veterinary services. It helps in several ways:

• Disease Surveillance: Private companies can monitor and report disease outbreaks quickly and efficiently.
• Workforce Capacity: They provide training and skill development for veterinarians, enhancing their capabilities.
• Vaccine Production: Collaborations lead to better and more efficient vaccine production.
• Infrastructure Development: Private investments help build veterinary labs and clinics, improving overall infrastructure.

Importance of Developing FMD-Free Zones

Creating Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD)-free zones is crucial for several reasons:

• Animal Health: Fewer FMD cases result in healthier livestock.
• Economic Benefits: Preventing FMD protects farmers’ incomes and supports the agricultural economy.
• Trade Opportunities: FMD-free zones increase international trade opportunities for livestock products.
• Public Health: Controlling FMD reduces the risk of diseases spreading from animals to humans.