President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, addressed the convocation ceremony of the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, on June 30, 2025. In her address, she highlighted the deep connection between humanity and nature and emphasized the growing global focus on the concept of ‘One Health’.
“Our culture teaches us to see the divine in every living being,” the President said, noting that the belief that sages communicated with animals was rooted in this worldview. She stressed the urgent need to conserve species facing extinction, reminding the audience that biodiversity plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the planet.
Referring to the COVID-19 pandemic, President Murmu warned of the dangers of unchecked consumption and its impact on both humanity and the natural world. She said, “It is our responsibility to use our intelligence for the well-being of all living creatures.”
Highlighting IVRI’s pivotal role, she said the institute could lead efforts in preventing and managing zoonotic diseases, which emerge at the intersection of human and animal health. She encouraged a greater focus on animal welfare, echoing the principles behind the One Health approach that views human, animal, and environmental health as interconnected.
The President also urged the institute to adopt and develop advanced technologies such as genome editing, embryo transfer, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics in veterinary care. She called on researchers to find affordable, indigenous treatments and to seek alternatives to veterinary medicines that could harm animals, humans, or the environment.
Addressing the graduating students, President Murmu applauded their decision to dedicate their careers to the care of animals. “When faced with tough choices in life, think about the voiceless animals who depend on your compassion,” she said. She also encouraged students to consider entrepreneurship and start-ups in animal sciences, which could generate both employment and innovation.
The convocation ceremony at IVRI reflected India’s growing emphasis on sustainable development and integrated healthcare models, with the President’s words serving as both inspiration and a call to action for the next generation of veterinary professionals.
Source: Press Information Bureau
