A complete legislative and policy framework for pursuing the ‘One Health’ project was launched today by major government ministries and departments, marking a critical milestone in India’s public health strategy. A National Consultation on Legal Environment Assessment for One Health activities was launched in cooperation with the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, NITI Aayog, Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Ministry of Law & Justice, and Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.

Dr Vinod Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog, presided over the inauguration ceremony in New Delhi. He emphasised India’s proactive role in developing a strong legislative framework that is in line with global health concerns. He stressed that in order to manage zoonotic illnesses and other health issues at the interface of humans, animals, and the environment, integrated approaches are vital, as highlighted by the continuing COVID-19 pandemic.

The Secretary of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Shri Apurva Chandra, emphasised the need for coordinated efforts across sectors for effective disease surveillance and management, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the “One Health” concept. Under PM-ABHIM, he reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to bolstering state capabilities to combat zoonotic diseases and other health risks.

In order to ensure the welfare of both human populations and animals, Ms. Leena Nandan, Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, emphasised the significance of coordinating environmental protection activities with health goals. She reiterated the ministry’s commitment to incorporating health concerns into environmental and wildlife protection strategies.

Shri Rajiv Mani, Secretary, Ministry of Law & Justice, promised cooperation for aligning existing legal frameworks with One Health principles in an attempt to fortify protections for all species and ecosystems.

The objectives of the National Consultation are to evaluate the current state of the law, promote intersectoral dialogue, provide workable recommendations, and foster collaboration among interested parties. Among the crucial topics are international health regulations, food safety, zoonoses, antibiotic resistance, biosafety, and climate change.

The National Centre for Disease Control, the Directorate General of Health Services, and the Centre for One Health are organizing a consultation with the goal of laying the foundation for a complete legislative framework that supports the integrated “One Health” approach.