Hisar veterinary varsity holds annual convention

The three-day 12th Annual Convention of the Society for Veterinary Sciences and Biotechnology (SVSBT) and the International Conference on “Bridging Science and Society: Biotechnology for Sustainable One Health” concluded at the Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (LUVAS) in Hisar.

Dr Praveen Malik, Animal Husbandry Commissioner of the Central Government, was the chief guest, while Vice-Chancellor Prof Vinod Kumar Verma was also present on the occasion.

Dr Malik said the ‘One Health’ concept has gained global significance, as the health of humans, animals and the environment are closely interconnected. He emphasised that preventing infectious diseases in animals, improving biosecurity and advancing scientific research form the foundation of sustainable health systems.

Expressing concern over climate change, he said shifting weather patterns are affecting livestock and agriculture. He also called on scientists to contribute to environmental protection through responsible personal action. He further encouraged the use of public transport and electric vehicles to help reduce pollution.

Dr Manoj Roz, dean of the College of Veterinary Sciences, congratulated all participants and said the enthusiastic involvement of scientists and research scholars made the conference highly impactful. He added that the research papers presented and the technical discussions held during the event would guide future innovation and contribute significantly to academics and research.

Director of Research, Dr Naresh Jindal, said the event enabled national and international scientists, researchers and experts to exchange valuable experiences on animal health, biotechnology and the ‘One Health’ approach, providing new direction to the scientific community. Conference Organising Secretary and Head of Department, Dr Sushila Maan, said the event, organised by the Department of Animal Biotechnology, saw participation from scientists, researchers, industry representatives, farmers and students. She added that discussions covered translational research, interdisciplinary collaboration, genomics, biosensors, AI-based disease prediction, next-generation vaccine platforms, advanced reproductive biotechnology and sustainable agriculture.

The conference recorded 198 registrations, 240 scientific presentations, nine thematic sessions, one plenary session, 27 lead talks, 87 oral presentations and 80 poster presentations. Experts from countries including Nigeria, the USA and Japan participated in the deliberations. During the function, SVSBT presented Lifetime Achievement Awards, SVSBT Fellow Awards, Best Research Paper Awards, Best Clinical Case Report Awards and prizes for the best oral and poster presentations. Awards for poster presentations under various technical sessions were also announced.