To strengthen coordination between departments, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) has constituted an Empowered Committee on Animal Health-Regulatory (ECAH). This committee assesses veterinary vaccines, biologicals and drugs and provides technical recommendations to the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) regarding import and manufacturing approvals.
The initiative seeks to bring subject-matter expertise from the animal health domain into the drug regulatory process, ensuring scientific scrutiny before products are cleared.
Focus on Antimicrobial Resistance
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) remains a significant global concern. The government has implemented the National Action Plan on Anti-Microbial Resistance (NAP-AMR), which emphasises optimal use of antimicrobials, awareness generation, training, surveillance and monitoring.
By integrating veterinary practices into the broader AMR strategy, authorities aim to prevent overuse and misuse of antibiotics in livestock and poultry sectors.
Standard Treatment Guidelines for Livestock
The Department has developed Standard Veterinary Treatment Guidelines (SVTGs) for livestock and poultry. These guidelines promote best practices in veterinary care and disease management while ensuring responsible drug usage, including antimicrobials.
The SVTGs are designed to help veterinarians make evidence-based treatment decisions, reducing unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions and supporting animal health outcomes.
Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme
Under the Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP), financial assistance is extended to States and Union Territories. The support covers training and awareness programmes on Good Animal Husbandry Practices, biosecurity and sanitary measures, vaccination drives, disease surveillance and capacity building.
These interventions indirectly contribute to reduced antibiotic usage by strengthening preventive healthcare systems and improving overall livestock management.
Digital Solutions and Ethno-Veterinary Practices
As part of the National Digital Livestock Mission, the Bharat Pashudhan application has been introduced to assist in managing common ailments of dairy animals, such as mastitis, indigestion and diarrhoea. The app promotes the use of Ethno-Veterinary Medicine (EVM), encouraging traditional and alternative remedies where appropriate.
This approach supports rational drug use and complements modern veterinary practices.
Advisories to States on Antibiotic Use
The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying has issued advisories to all States and Union Territories for the judicious use of antibiotics in food-producing animals. The advisories call for discontinuing the use of antibiotics in animal feed and emphasise awareness initiatives to educate stakeholders about responsible usage.
Such measures are aligned with global best practices aimed at preserving antibiotic effectiveness for both animal and human health.
Integrated Regulatory Vision
The coordinated regulatory framework reflects a multi-layered approach involving legislation, expert committees, digital tools and awareness programmes. By integrating veterinary medicine regulation with national public health goals, the government aims to balance animal welfare, food safety and antimicrobial stewardship.
The statement in Parliament underscores the Centre’s focus on strengthening oversight while promoting responsible and sustainable veterinary healthcare practices across the country.