26 February 2026, Sri Vijaya Puram
A two-day National Conference titled ‘One Health Synergy: Integrating Human, Animal, Plant and Aquatic Life for a Sustainable Future’ successfully concluded today at the ICAR–Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Sri Vijaya Puram.
The Chief Guest for the valedictory session, Dr A. K. Nayak, Deputy Director General (Natural Resource Management), ICAR, commended the organizers and participants for the successful conclusion of the two-day National Workshop focused on the critical elements of One Health. He highlighted that soil health is the cornerstone of plant health, which in turn affects animal health, human health, and ultimately the health of the entire ecosystem. By referencing global initiatives, he mentioned that the FAO has already launched programs related to One Health and emphasized that the approach should start with soil health, progress to plant and animal health, and cover the entire food chain from a comprehensive ecosystem viewpoint. He also stated that non-communicable issues like malnutrition and anemia are included within the One Health framework and need to be tackled through enhanced food and nutritional security, incorporating biofortification strategies that connect agriculture to human health.
Dr Nayak further highlighted challenges such as fluorosis and arsenic contamination in soil and water, which impact crops, enter the food chain, and ultimately affect human health. He stressed the importance of robust multidisciplinary integration and convergence of scientific fields to effectively realize the One Health concept. He informed that ICAR has started collaborative projects with ICMR to address these emerging issues and praised the workshop for producing valuable and actionable recommendations for future implementation.
The programme also featured the presence of Dr A. Velmurugan, Assistant Director General (SWM), ICAR; Dr S. Dinesh Kannan, IFS, Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), A & N Islands; and Dr Sunita Roy, Joint Director, Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, A&N Administration.
Dr A. Velmurugan, underscored that conference of this kind serve as a vital platform for researchers nationwide to unite, share knowledge, and exchange experiences. He pointed out the exceptional biodiversity, unique climate, and considerable biological and ecological significance of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. He remarked that the effects of climate change have become increasingly apparent over time and emphasized that alterations in land-use patterns negatively impact ecological health. Additionally, he called upon all stakeholders to embrace a comprehensive One Health approach, which integrates agriculture, livestock, the food chain, and human health to promote sustainable development and environmental well-being.
Dr S. Dinesh Kannan, IFS, emphasized that a healthy environment and healthy animals are essential for ensuring human well-being. He remarked that failures in research are stepping stones that ultimately lead to success and innovation. He congratulated the organizers for successfully conducting the workshop from a remote location like the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Dr Sunita Roy outlined the various schemes being undertaken by the Andaman & Nicobar Administration and highlighted the strengthening of surveillance measures for animals brought from the mainland to ensure biosecurity and safeguard animal and public health.
Earlier, Dr Jai Sunder, Director, ICAR–CIARI, and President, Andaman Science Association welcomed the dignitaries and briefly highlighted the activities carried out during the two-day conference and its expected outcomes. He informed that a total of 194 participants, including online delegates, attended the conference from across the nation, and 145 papers were presented, including lead papers.
(Source: ICAR–Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Sri Vijaya Puram)
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