In a major stride toward bolstering India's pandemic preparedness, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, hosted a pivotal workshop on 20th June 2025 in New Delhi. The event, part of the Pandemic Fund-supported initiative “Animal Health Security Strengthening in India for Pandemic Preparedness and Response,” focused on crafting an effective One Health communication strategy.
The workshop served as a collaborative platform, drawing participation from a broad spectrum of stakeholders including government bodies, international organizations, academic institutions, research entities, and media professionals. The goal was to lay the groundwork for a strategic and inclusive communication roadmap tailored to support India’s One Health vision — an integrated approach that connects animal, human, and environmental health.
Central to the workshop discussions were strategies to raise public awareness around zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and biosecurity. Emphasis was placed on creating targeted, culturally relevant messages that resonate with communities, particularly at the grassroots level.
Dr. Abhijit Mitra, Animal Husbandry Commissioner, highlighted the vital role communication plays in pandemic preparedness. “Effective communication isn’t just about dissemination; it’s about enabling behavioral change and improving coordination across sectors. Our messaging must be simple, clear, and locally relevant to make a real impact,” he noted.
Echoing this sentiment, Dr. Konda Chavva, Assistant FAO Representative in India, emphasized communication as a core element of the One Health model. “Bridging the gap between knowledge and action depends on how well we communicate. It’s the thread that connects policy with people,” he said.
A standout session at the workshop featured a media panel comprising seasoned editors and journalists from leading platforms such as BBC News, and many others. The discussion centered on the media's role in amplifying One Health narratives, combating misinformation, and fostering public trust through transparent and science-driven reporting.
The workshop also spotlighted the forthcoming One Health Strategy Document, a national framework under development that aims to promote coordinated responses to health threats across sectors. Participants engaged in technical breakouts and collaborative exercises focused on message design, risk communication, and inter-sectoral cooperation.
