The Vital Role of Veterinarians in a Healthy India

In a recent national conference on World Veterinary Day 2025, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, the Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, delivered a speech highlighting the pivotal role of veterinarians in the nation’s economic foundation. With over 536 million livestock dominating the food chain, he emphasized that no healthy India exists without healthy animals, which are essential for both individual households and the country’s economic health.

Prof. Baghel stressed that the economy relies on healthy animal products—80% of households depend on them for income, and 70% rely on them for food and security. He highlighted how Veterinarians are the backbone of rural economies, ensuring a secure future by providing essential medical services to livestock.

The speech also underscored the importance of collaboration among various professions: veterinarians, para-veterinaries, scientists, and public health professionals. These teams work together to ensure integrated animal, human, and environmental health, which is crucial for sustainable and resilient livestock production systems.

Prof. Baghel further emphasized the role of indigenous breeds in strengthening the sector. These breeds are well-adapted to local climatic conditions and play a key role in producing a resilient population. His talk was a testament to the nation’s importance as a global leader in animal husbandry, with efforts that extend beyond textbooks.

In conclusion, Prof. Baghel’s speech underscored the collective responsibility of all entities involved in maintaining a healthy India. The economy, the environment, and public health are interconnected, making it crucial for individuals and institutions to work together to build a healthier future. Let us inspire each other by working towards this holistic vision of a healthy India—one where wildlife, people, and our planet coexist harmoniously.