V.K. Paul Launches National Initiative for One Health at OPPI Summit

At the 60th OPPI Summit held on March 14, 2024, in New Delhi, V.K. Paul, Member (Health) of NITI Aayog, announced the launch of a national ‘Jan Andolan’ for the One Health initiative. This initiative aims to create an integrated ecosystem to address global health threats, particularly zoonotic diseases. Paul emphasized the importance of the National One Health Mission (NOHM) in fostering collaboration across various sectors to combat these challenges effectively.

Paul described the theme “One Earth, One Health, One Future” as a vital national mantra that should guide collective action. He pointed out that the world faces persistent threats from zoonotic diseases and climate-sensitive illnesses that transcend borders. These risks, he noted, demand coordinated responses and collaboration across health and environmental sectors.

National One Health Mission: A Comprehensive Approach

With India’s vast biodiversity and large population, Paul stated that the National One Health Mission represents one of the most comprehensive initiatives in this field. He highlighted that the mission is a long-term commitment focused on establishing surveillance networks that connect various ministries, academic institutions, and technology systems. Significant groundwork has already begun, particularly in areas where humans and animals interact closely, which is essential for early detection and risk mitigation.

Paul called for a “unified and swift response” to outbreaks by ensuring synchronized investigation, risk communication, and coordinated action at all levels. He underscored the importance of making medical countermeasures, such as vaccines and diagnostics, widely available to enhance preparedness for future health emergencies. He also noted that India’s national network of BSL-3 and BSL-4 laboratories is now equipped to support early detection and response to One Health threats and potential pandemics.

State-Level Engagement and Collaboration

While national frameworks provide direction, Paul stressed that individual states will play a crucial role in implementing the mission. Their active participation is vital for the mission’s overall success. He urged all stakeholders, including government bodies, scientific institutions, academia, industry, and civil society, to collaborate in safeguarding health security and bolstering the One Health ecosystem.

In addition, Ajay K. Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, remarked on the progress made in integrating previously fragmented sectors—human health, animal health, plant health, and environmental systems—into a cohesive framework. He noted that the National One Health Mission symbolizes these sustained efforts and represents a historic collaboration among 16 key stakeholders, including states and union territories.

Sood expressed confidence that the mission’s agenda is bold and comprehensive, capable of protecting both people and the ecosystems upon which they depend. He believes that this initiative will significantly enhance the country’s collective efforts to advance the One Health paradigm.

The event also featured notable attendees, including Anu Nagar, Joint Secretary of the Department of Health Research, and Nivedita Gupta, Scientist G and Head of Communicable Diseases at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), alongside senior officials and representatives from international organizations and partner agencies.

In summary, the launch of the ‘Jan Andolan’ for One Health at the OPPI Summit marks a pivotal moment for India in addressing pressing health challenges through an integrated and collaborative approach.