National Wildlife Health Policy

March 19, 2025

Five years after Covid-19 was declared a pandemic. the Indian government is reviewing a draft of a National Wildlife Health Policy (NWHP). This policy suggests monitoring wildlife diseases, doing more research, and setting up new testing labs. The policy aims to integrate disease surveillance, research, and diagnostics for better pandemic preparedness.

Context

The NWHP is a response to the rising threat of zoonotic diseases. Over 60% of emerging infectious diseases in humans originate from animals. The One Health approach is central to this policy. It aims to unify human, animal, and environmental health efforts. The policy aligns with India’s National One Health Mission, enhancing cross-sectoral collaboration for disease control.

Structure and Implementation

The NWHP is being developed under the guidance of the Environment Ministry’s Central Zoo Authority (CZA). The Principal Scientific Adviser’s office is facilitating expert consultations. A core working group has contributed to the policy formulation. Seven thematic working groups have made recommendations on various aspects of wildlife health.

Key Recommendations of the Policy

The policy includes several strategic recommendations. A comprehensive disease surveillance system focusing on terrestrial, marine, and avian ecosystems is proposed. This system aims to improve data collection and reporting across sectors. The establishment of a National Referral Centre for Wildlife (NRC-W) will centralise investigations into wildlife mortalities and outbreaks.

Wildlife Health Database and Information System

A national wildlife health database is recommended. This database will serve as a repository for real-time surveillance data. It will integrate information from animal husbandry and human health databases. A wildlife health information system is also proposed to streamline reporting and enhance disease surveillance.

Diagnostic Labs and Community Engagement

The establishment of satellite diagnostic labs is aspect of the NWHP. These labs will facilitate timely disease detection and diagnostics near critical wildlife habitats. Additionally, community engagement is crucial. Efforts will focus on improving vaccination rates among livestock near national parks to prevent disease transmission.

Importance of Cross-Sectoral Collaboration

Currently, wildlife disease surveillance operates in silos. The Environment Ministry coordinates wildlife protection, while the Ministry of Agriculture handles animal health. The NWHP aims to bridge these gaps. A unified policy will enhance information exchange and collaboration among various stakeholders in wildlife health management.

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