BackOne day Workshop on Antimicrobial and Anthelmintic Resistance in Livestock conducted at ICAR- CSWRI, Avikanagar for Veterinary officers of Rajasthan.
On the recommendations of the 6th Regional Committee Meeting held on November 3, 2023, at ICAR-CSWRI, Avikanagar, a one-day workshop on “Antimicrobial and anthelmintic resistance in livestock” was conducted at ICAR-CSWRI, Avikanagar on September 20, 2024. The primary objective of the workshop was to raise awareness among veterinary officers about the critical issues related to antimicrobial and anthelmintic resistance in animals. A total of 25 veterinary officers participated in the workshop, including the Joint Director and the Deputy Director Animal Husbandry of Rajasthan.
Dr. Arun Kumar, Director of ICAR-CSWRI, welcomed all guests and provided an overview of the workshop, highlighting its significance for field veterinarians. During the event, a bulletin titled "Antimicrobial and Anthelmintic Resistance: Overview and Preventive Strategies" was released by the dignitaries. The chief guest, Prof. (Dr.) Col. A. K. Gahlot, Founder Vice-Chancellor of RAJUVAS, Bikaner, and a member of the Hon’ble Governor’s Advisory Board, elaborated on the increasing concern of antimicrobial and anthelmintic resistance in India. He emphasized that, as a developing country, India faces challenges in diagnostic facilities for both human and animal health. The overuse and misuse of antimicrobial compounds pose a significant global risk of antimicrobial resistance. Prof. Gahlot stressed the need for awareness programs targeting health workers at the village level.
The workshop was coordinated by Dr. G. G. Sonawane, Head of the Division of Animal Health, who presented a comprehensive overview of global initiatives and the Indian perspective on antimicrobial resistance. He underscored the One Health concept and the importance of AMR surveillance programs initiated by various global agencies aimed at containing AMR across humans, animals, and the environment. Dr. C.P. Swarnkar, co-coordinator of the workshop, provided insights on anthelmintics in animals, discussing prudent use and strategies to reduce reliance on these medications in veterinary practice. Dr. D. K. Sharma, also a co-coordinator, highlighted the importance of responsible antimicrobial use, proper disposal methods, and strategies to mitigate antimicrobial resistance in animals.
Participants also visited the AviMail, a mobile laboratory for artificial insemination in sheep developed by ICAR-CSWRI, Avikanagar. The chief guest praised the developers of AviMail and expressed the hope that this prototype laboratory would be implemented by the state government to benefit small animal farmers.
In conclusion, Prof. (Dr.) Col. A. K. Gahlot emphasized the significance of vaccination, hygiene, and proper sanitation practices in combating major diseases, which could reduce both antibiotic use and the occurrence of microbial resistance. Certificates of participation were awarded to all attendees. The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr. C.P. Swarnkar, who acknowledged that the event was made possible through the motivation, continuous encouragement, and overall guidance of Dr. Arun Kumar, Director of ICAR-CSWRI, Avikanagar.
The program also saw participation from various heads and in-charges of divisions and sections, including Dr. R.S. Bhatt, Dr. S.S. Mishra, Er. (Dr.) Ajay Kumar, Dr. S.C. Sharma, Dr. S.S. Dangi, Dr. L.R. Gurjar, Dr. Amar Singh Meena, Dr. Arvind, CAO, Sh. I.B. Kumar, and FAO, Sh. Rajkumar.
This workshop marks a significant step towards addressing antimicrobial and anthelmintic resistance in livestock, fostering collaboration among veterinary professionals in Rajasthan.
