- Nagpur: Modern veterinary infrastructure, indigenous knowledge and self-reliance key to human and animal well-being
Nagpur (Maharashtra): RSS chief Dr Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday said the concept of ‘One Health’, which is gaining global recognition, has been deeply rooted in India’s traditional knowledge and practices for centuries. He emphasised that human health, animal welfare and environmental sustainability are interconnected and cannot be addressed in isolation.
Speaking at the unveiling of the Dattaji Meghe memorial and inauguration of an Agriculture College and Veterinary Hospital, Bhagwat highlighted the growing importance of veterinary education and modern infrastructure. He said veterinary students today have access to advanced facilities, while the profession has gained greater recognition compared to earlier times.
Human, Animal and Environmental Health Interconnected
Bhagwat said environmental degradation directly affects human health, while declining animal health impacts livelihoods and increases the risk of diseases transmitting from animals to humans. He observed that the world had gradually realised through experience that irresponsible human behaviour could threaten the entire ecosystem.
He cited India’s traditional practices, including Vasubaras, which marks the beginning of Diwali celebrations and celebrates cattle, and the tradition of making Govardhan from cow dung. According to him, practices once ridiculed globally are now being recognised for their environmental and ecological value.
Traditional Knowledge Can Strengthen Self-Reliance
The RSS chief stressed the need to identify, develop and utilise India’s indigenous capabilities and resources to reduce dependence on other countries. He said self-reliance was essential for genuine independence but also carried the responsibility of supporting those dependent on society.
Bhagwat called for a development approach that benefits not only individual nations but also humanity as a whole. He said India’s traditional sciences and knowledge systems possess immense wisdom that can contribute to sustainable development, self-reliance and global well-being.
