Nagpur

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday said veterinarians play an important role in India’s economic growth and called upon them to look beyond their traditional professional boundaries.

Stressing the principle of coexistence, Bhagwat said harmony between humans, animals and nature is essential, and society must engage in serious discussions on achieving a balanced relationship among all three.

He was speaking at the ‘National Symposium on the Role of Canine in One Health: Building Partnership and Resolving Challenges’, jointly organised by the Indian Society for Advancement of Canine Practice and the Maharashtra Animal and Fishery Sciences University (MAFSU).

“Earlier, the role of veterinarians was seen as limited. But we must rethink and visualise a broader and more impactful role,” Bhagwat said, adding that veterinary doctors are not only animal health experts but also key contributors to society and the national economy.

Referring to a recent Supreme Court ruling on stray dogs, he said the issue had triggered polarised reactions and suggested that alternative, balanced solutions should be explored to address such sensitive matters.

In November last year, the apex court had ordered the relocation of stray dogs to designated shelters after sterilisation and vaccination, citing a rise in dog bite incidents in places such as schools, hospitals and railway stations.

Bhagwat also advocated the creation of a separate national-level veterinary council, stating that professionals in the field require an independent regulatory and administrative framework.

He said sectors progress best when guided by subject experts and expressed hope that veterinary professionals would receive greater autonomy and recognition.

Highlighting India’s agrarian economy, Bhagwat said the veterinary sector plays a crucial role in supporting farmers and animal husbandry, thereby strengthening economic development.

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He also touched upon global environmental challenges and said India could offer solutions rooted in its own civilisational ethos to protect nature while ensuring sustainable living.