Veterinarians trained in antimicrobial care and One Health at KVASU

Veterinarians from the Animal Production Department (AHD), Keralam, participated in a two-day training program at the Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (KVASU), Pookode, Wayanad, aimed at strengthening the responsible use of antibiotics and the role of veterinarians in addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

The program was organized by the Center for One Health Education, Advocacy, Research and Training (COHEART), KVASU, as part of the regional project supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) “Improving Animal Health Practices of Veterinarians and Breeders to Sustain Antimicrobial Resistance and Promote One Health”. The project is being implemented by Sathguru Management Consultants in collaboration with Zenex Animal Health, with COHEART providing technical guidance.

The training focused on strengthening the capacity of field veterinarians in responsible and evidence-based use of antimicrobials, disease prevention, vaccination, alternatives to antibiotics, biosecurity and farm hygiene, animal welfare and gender-responsive veterinary services. She also emphasized the vital role of veterinarians in addressing zoonotic diseases and AMR through the One Health approach, which recognizes the close links between human, animal and environmental health.

The program is part of a major South Asian capacity building initiative involving Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and four Indian states – Gujarat, Keralam, Punjab and Telangana. In the seven implementation regions, the project has conducted more than 60 capacity-building programs – 17 for veterinarians and 43 for livestock farmers – reaching more than 500 veterinarians and 2,000 livestock farmers.

Prejit, Senior Officer, COHEART, serves as Technical Lead for the Regional Project in Kerala. KS Anil, Vice-Chancellor, KVASU, delivered the valedictory address and distributed certificates to the participating veterinarians.

Published – 16 Sep 2026 21:29 IST