Indian Federation of Animal Health Companies (INFAH) successfully organized National Seminar on "Contribution of Indian Animal Health Industry towards Healthy Animals and Healthier India" on 13th Feb, 2015 at Hotel Le Meridien, New Delhi.
The seminar was attended by galaxy of close to 125 participants from Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and its associated institutes; Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries (DAHDF), MOA; Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), MOH; State Veterinary Department officials; diplomats from embassies; INFAH Members, other association member and media personnel’s. Through this seminar INFAH aimed to address the various challenges faced by Animal Health Industry and paved a path for the healthier tomorrow.
Dr. P.G Phalke, Treasurer, INFAH conducted the first Inaugural Session of the National Seminar. The opening presentation was delivered by INFAH President Mr. Satish Pasrija. He shared the latest statistics pertaining to Global Animal Health Market and overview of Indian AH Industry. He also elaborated on the role of INFAH towards development of the Indian Animal Health Industry, key activities of sub-committees and their respective strategic priorities and shared the contribution of each subcommittee.
Mr. Carel du Marchie Sarvaas, Executive Director of International Federation for Animal Health (IFAH) delivered the theme address. His presentation focused on the Global Animal Health Industry and recent trends in an ever- changing world. He emphasised on the value the Animal Health Industry brings to the society. He also shared his observations and predictions for Indian Animal Health market.
Dr. S. Abdul Rahman (President - Common Wealth Association, President- APCRI/OIE Animal Welfare Group) delivered the Key note speech. He emphasized on "Role of Veterinary Profession and Pharmaceutical Industry in Livestock Production & Health from a Food Safety & Security Perspective".
Dr. K.M.L. Pathak, Deputy Director General (Animal Science), ICAR addressed the gathering. He emphasized on the role of livestock sector in ensuring food security of the nation. He encouraged Indian Animal Health companies to come forward for collaboration with ICAR in the areas of Research & Development.
Dr. Suresh S. Honnappagol, Animal Husbandry Commissioner, DAHDF enlightened the audience on strategic priorities of GOI towards development of livestock sector. He encouraged all stakeholders of the industry to work together towards increasing productivity of livestock and assuring food security of the nation.
Dr. G. N. Singh, Drugs Controller General of India, Secretary cum Scientific Director (IPC) was glad to be at INFAH forum for the 2nd time. He complimented INFAH Managing Committee for organizing such National Seminar. He extended his full support to address the issues of Indian Animal Health companies & appealed all members to continue the dialogue process. He particularly emphasized on the aspects of pharmacovigilance & Drug Safety Studies.
All the speakers were honored with the mementos by INFAH Managing Committee members.
Dr. Arun Atrey, Vice President, INFAH, extended Vote of Thanks to the distinguished & eminent personalities for sparing their valuable time for the National Seminar. He recognized the contribution of Organizing Committee members – Mr. Vijay Teng, Dr. PG Phalke & Dr. Vijay Makhija, Sub-committee members & local team for arranging the logistics.
The 2nd Technical Session was chaired by Dr. B. S. Prakash, ADG-Animal Nutrition & Physiology, Division of Animal Sciences, ICAR as Chairman and Dr D.K.Dey (General Secretary, INFAH) as the Rapporteur.
Dr. Rishendra Verma Joint Director, Centre for Animal Disease Research and Diagnosis (CADRAD), IVRI delivered an insightful presentation on "Veterinary Biologicals Regulation towards global standards". He emphasized on the need of Regulatory agencies and organizations around the world to ensure the safety, quality and efficacy of medicines and medical devices, harmonization of legal procedures related to drug development, monitoring and ensuring compliance with statutory obligations of data integrity management.
Dr. M. R. Reddy, Principal Scientist (Avian Diseases), DPR, Hyderabad addressed the gathering on "Antibiotic usage & MRLs – Myths & Facts". He emphasized the importance for Indian poultry industry to have access to Indian data rather than extrapolating from overseas information. He stressed on an integrated national surveillance system for antibiotic resistance and antibiotic usage across the human and animal health sectors. There is a need for active engagement of all key stakeholders on the development and implementation of coordinated and achievable approach. A strategic research (including Public-Private-Partnership) to develop new drugs and technology is necessary to further develop and streamline the regulatory mechanisms in both the human and animal health sectors.
Dr. D. C. Katoch, Joint Advisor (Ayurveda), Ministry of AYUSH & Secretary - ASU Drug Consultative Committee enlightened the audience by his insightful speech on Ayurveda in Veterinary Medicine. He invited industry stakeholders to come forward to work on collaborative approach towards finding sustainable healthcare solutions. He requested the INFAH members to submit the list of herbal plants used as raw material in Animal Health so that the relevant monographs can be developed for herbal/ayurvedic products used in Animal Health.
Dr. B. S. Prakash summarized the deliberation of Technical Sessions and also addressed queries from the audience. Dr. D. K. Dey concluded the Technical Session.
