SKUAST-J observes ‘World Zoonoses Day’

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, July 7: Under the guidance of Vice-Chancellor Prof B N Tripathi, World Zoonoses Day- 2026 was observed at Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry at R S Pura Campus of SKUAST Jammu.

The programme was organized by Division of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology. The theme of World Zoonoses Day 2026 is "Working Together: Preventing Zoonoses Through Community Action ".

World Zoonoses Day is observed every year to commemorate the scientific breakthrough made by Louis Pasteur, who successfully administered the first rabies vaccine on this day in 1885. This occasion serves as a powerful reminder of the continuing threat posed by zoonotic diseases - infections that are transmitted between animals and humans.

Associate Dean, FVSc & AH, Dr M S Bhadwal graced the event, which began with address by Dr Harsh Kumar Sharma, Professor & Head, VPHE cum coordinator of the function.

Harsh emphasised the importance of Zoonoses and its status in the region. He also emphasised the significance of this year's theme i.e. "Working Together: Preventing Zoonoses Through Community Action". He informed that preventing the next pandemic starts at the animal-human interface. A united global response through One Health partnerships is essential to reduce risks, protect biodiversity, and ensure global health security, he added.

The Associate Dean sensitized the audience in his presidential remarks regarding significance of World Zoonoses Day. He also highlighted the importance of One Health approach in combatting the zoonotic outbreaks in Jammu region, mainly prevention of Rabies.

The programme was also attended by Prof & Head VPP Dr Pankaj Goswami, Prof M A Malik (VPHE), Prof M Rashid(VPHE), who delivered expert talks on different zoonotic diseases.

The World Zoonoses Day-2026 was attended by Interns, UG students of the BVSc & AH and PG students of FVSc & AH. The function concluded with the vote of thanks by Prof M A Malik.