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In a significant move aimed at bolstering India’s disease control and pandemic preparedness efforts, the Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the creation of a pivotal post and the establishment of the National Institute of One Health in Nagpur.
The Cabinet’s decision paves the way for the appointment of a Director at the National Institute of One Health, who will also serve as the Mission Director for the multi-ministerial and multi-sectoral National One Health Mission. This strategic initiative aims to integrate efforts across human, animal, plant, and environmental sectors to combat infectious diseases and enhance pandemic preparedness.
Financially, the creation of the Director’s post at the level of Scientist ‘H’, with an annual financial implication of approximately Rs. 35.59 lakhs, underscores the government’s commitment to investing in initiatives vital to public health and safety.
The National Institute of One Health in Nagpur will play a pivotal role in spearheading the National One Health Mission, which has been designed to address the complex and interconnected challenges posed by infectious diseases. By fostering collaboration among 13 government departments, the mission seeks to synergize priority activities and leverage existing programs to achieve integrated disease control and pandemic preparedness.
The backdrop of this decision is marked by numerous infectious disease outbreaks, including Nipah, H5N1 avian influenza, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which have underscored the urgent need for a holistic approach to public health. Moreover, outbreaks of animal diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease and African swine fever further emphasize the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
Recognizing the imperative for an integrated approach, the National One Health Mission aims to institutionalize the ‘One Health’ framework, facilitating early detection of epidemics and pandemics through integrated and holistic research and development. By leveraging the strengths of various sectors and developing targeted strategies for medical countermeasures, such as vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics, the mission seeks to mitigate the impact of infectious diseases on human health, animal welfare, and economic stability.
The establishment of the National Institute of One Health and the National One Health Mission represents a significant stride towards achieving the goal of ‘Health and Wellness for All.’ Through concerted efforts and collaborative action, India is poised to enhance its resilience against future health crises and safeguard the well-being of its citizens and ecosystems alike.
