6 November 2026, Barrackpore
As part of the observance of BRICS Sustainable Lifestyle Week (BSLW) 2026 (1–7 November), ICAR–Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, in collaboration with the Block Livestock Development Office (BLDO), Barrackpore-II, Department of Animal Resources Development (ARD), Government of West Bengal, organised a Rabies Vaccination and Awareness Programme under the theme “Adopt Healthy Lifestyles”. The programme witnessed active participation from ICAR-CIFRI staff and Gen Z students of the College of Fisheries, Gumla, with the objective of promoting awareness about rabies prevention and the importance of responsible and healthy lifestyle practices.
The programme was organised in alignment with India's BRICS Chairship 2026 and the objectives of Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), under the overarching theme “One Week, Seven Actions, One Planet”. It aimed to promote awareness of preventive healthcare, responsible animal care and community participation in preventing zoonotic diseases.
During the awareness session, participants were sensitised to rabies, its modes of transmission, preventive measures, responsible animal care and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention following suspected exposure. The session emphasised that timely vaccination, public awareness and responsible community behaviour are essential for preventing rabies and safeguarding both human and animal health.
As a practical follow-up to the awareness initiative, the veterinary team deputed by the BLDO office vaccinated stray dogs in and around the ICAR-CIFRI campus against rabies. This field-level intervention reinforced the message that disease prevention requires not only awareness but also timely and coordinated action.
Dr Pradip Dey, Director, ICAR-CIFRI, emphasised that the auspicious occasion of Dhanteras serves as a reminder that true wealth (Dhan) lies in good health and well-being. Linking this message with the One Health approach, he highlighted that sustainable development begins with responsible individual choices and collective community action, integrating human health, animal welfare and environmental protection as interconnected pillars of a healthy and resilient society. He underscored the importance of translating scientific awareness into practical grassroots interventions through coordinated efforts of institutions, government departments and communities. Dr Dey further encouraged participants to carry the message of Dhanteras beyond the programme by making responsible lifestyle choices and preventive healthcare practices an integral part of everyday life, in the spirit of Mission LiFE and the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.
The initiative highlighted the significance of the One Health approach, recognising the close interconnection between human, animal and environmental health. By integrating awareness generation with a practical vaccination drive, ICAR-CIFRI and the BLDO, Barrackpore-II, reaffirmed their commitment to community engagement and preventive healthcare, contributing to the broader objectives of BRICS Sustainable Lifestyle Week 2026 and Mission LiFE.
(Source: ICAR–Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore)
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