SRINAGAR, JULY 6: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, today underscored the importance of creating widespread awareness about zoonotic diseases and reaffirmed the government’s commitment towards strengthening the animal health systems to safeguard the public health.
In his message on the World Zoonoses Day, the Minister said that being observed every year on July 6 it commemorates the historic achievement of the first successful rabies vaccination administered by Louis Pasteur in 1885. He said the day serves as an important reminder of the need for coordinated efforts to prevent and control diseases that are transmitted between animals and humans.
The Minister emphasized that Zoonotic diseases such as rabies, brucellosis, avian influenza and other emerging infections continue to pose significant challenges to human and animal health, livelihoods and food security. He stressed that early detection, effective surveillance, timely vaccination and responsible animal husbandry practices are essential for preventing outbreaks and protecting communities.
Javid Dar highlighted the pivotal role of the Animal and Sheep Husbandry Department in disease surveillance, livestock vaccination, veterinary healthcare and public awareness. He said the department is continuously strengthening the veterinary infrastructure, expanding immunization programmes and promoting scientific livestock management to ensure healthy animals and safer communities.
The Minister urged the livestock farmers, pet owners and the general public to adopt preventive measures, maintain proper hygiene while handling the animals, vaccinate pets and livestock regularly and promptly report any suspected disease outbreaks to the nearest veterinary institutions.
Reiterating the importance of the One Health approach, the Minister called for closer collaboration among the Animal Husbandry and allied departments to effectively tackle Zoonotic diseases. He said protecting animal health is intrinsically linked to protecting human health and preserving the environment.
The Minister also appreciated the dedication of veterinarians, para-veterinary staff and field functionaries for their relentless efforts in safeguarding livestock health and supporting the rural economy. He expressed confidence that with collective awareness, scientific interventions and community participation, Jammu and Kashmir can build a resilient system for the prevention and control of Zoonotic diseases.
Javid Dar appealed to all stakeholders to observe World Zoonoses Day by spreading awareness about disease prevention and adopting responsible practices that contribute to healthier animals, healthier people and a healthier environment.
