Lucknow: India is still recovering from the devastating impact of COVID-19, a pandemic that underscored the dangers of zoonotic diseases—those transmitted from animals to humans. Recognizing the need to strengthen awareness around the One Health concept, Ramakrishna Math, Lucknow, hosted a state-level conference on this critical subject. Environmental experts, medical professionals, veterinary specialists, and students of Vivekananda Nursing College participated in the event. Lucknow Mayor Sushma Kharkwal attended as the chief guest.
The conference, titled “One Health Approach: Connecting Human, Animal and Environmental Health,” was jointly organized by Vivekananda Polyclinic School and College of Nursing at the auditorium of Ramakrishna Math, Nirala Nagar, Lucknow.
Highlighting Interconnected Health Systems
The principal aim of the conference was to underline the vital link between animal health, human health, and environmental balance, while promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and sustainable, evidence-based healthcare practices.
The programme began with a Vedic chant, followed by a Saraswati Vandana performed by nursing students of Vivekananda College of Nursing. The event was jointly hosted by Purti Singh, Associate Professor, Community Health Nursing, and Debarati Ghosh, Assistant Professor, OBG Department, who welcomed all dignitaries.
Delivering the keynote address, Swami Muktinathanananda Maharaj, Secretary, Ramakrishna Mission Sevashram and Vivekananda Polyclinic & Institute of Medical Sciences, emphasized the importance of sustainable, evidence-based nursing practices that simultaneously benefit patient care, public health, and environmental well-being.
Mayor Calls for Stronger Interdisciplinary Efforts
Addressing the nursing students, Mayor Sushma Kharkwal praised their decision to serve society through the noble profession of nursing. She stressed the growing need for collaboration between nursing professionals, healthcare workers, and environmental scientists to achieve sustainable development goals through the One Health model.
Expert Sessions Address Key Health Challenges
Conference rapporteur Dr. N. Venkatalakshmi, Principal, Vivekananda College of Nursing, presented the official report on the proceedings.
In the first scientific session, Dr. Prashant Bajpai, Assistant Professor, Community Medicine and Public Health, King George’s Medical University, elaborated on the need for integrated approaches to human, animal, and environmental health.
The second session featured Dr. Jasmi Johnson, Dean and Principal, Faculty of Nursing Sciences, Rama University, Kanpur, who highlighted both global and Indian strategies for implementing the One Health approach.
In the third session, Dr. Deepti Shukla, Principal, Samarpan Institute of Nursing & Paramedical Sciences, discussed challenges and opportunities in interdisciplinary collaboration for the One Health framework.
Dr. Rashmi P. John, Principal, KGMU College of Nursing, shed light on environmental factors affecting health and the crucial role of nurses in mitigating these impacts at a global level.
Veterinary science expert Dr. Rajneesh Chandra presented detailed insights into cross-species transmission, zoonotic interfaces, and the rise of emerging and re-emerging zoonotic infections.
This was followed by Dr. Anjalatchi Muthukumaran, Vice Principal, Eira College of Nursing, who spoke on the expanding role of nurses within the One Health model.
Conference Concludes with Certificate Distribution
Swami Muktinathanananda Maharaj addressed the delegates during the closing session and distributed participation certificates. The Uttar Pradesh State Medical Faculty awarded 1 credit point to all registered participants.
The conference concluded successfully with a vote of thanks delivered by Mrs. Sarita, Head, Obstetrics & Gynecological Nursing Department, Vivekananda College of Nursing, Lucknow.
