India Launches 383-Crore National One Health Mission to Integrate Health Systems

India Unveils Comprehensive One Health Mission

The Indian government officially launched the National One Health Mission on November 12, 2025, a significant cross-ministerial initiative backed by an outlay of ₹383 crore. This mission is designed to foster an integrated approach to human, animal, and environmental health systems, with a primary focus on combating zoonotic diseases and addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The initiative underscores the interconnectedness of these health domains, recognizing that approximately 75% of new human diseases originate in animals.

Cleared by the Prime Minister's Science, Technology and Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC), the mission will be implemented by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Its overarching vision is to establish an integrated disease control and pandemic preparedness system in India, aiming for improved health outcomes, enhanced productivity, and the conservation of biodiversity.

Key Objectives and Strategic Pillars

The National One Health Mission is built upon several strategic pillars to achieve its ambitious goals. These include:

• Integrated Disease Surveillance: Establishing a national framework for the coordinated surveillance, prevention, and control of zoonotic diseases. This involves strengthening early warning systems for disease outbreaks using real-time data and digital platforms.
• Collaborative Research and Development: Promoting interdisciplinary research across human, veterinary, and environmental sciences. The mission will drive targeted R&D to develop essential tools such as vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics.
• Enhanced Laboratory Capacity: Strengthening laboratory infrastructure and biosafety standards at regional and national levels, including the expansion of a network of BSL-3/4 labs.
• Addressing Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): Developing and enforcing coordinated policies to curb AMR, a growing threat caused by the misuse of antibiotics in humans, animals, and agriculture.
• Data Integration and Information Sharing: Streamlining data and information linkages across human, animal, and environmental sectors for improved access and analytics.
• Capacity Building and Community Engagement: Implementing training programs for professionals and ensuring close community participation to maintain a constant state of response readiness.

Collaborative Framework and Future Outlook

The mission will involve extensive collaboration among various government agencies and ministries. Key partners include the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), alongside the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) and the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD). The National Institute of One Health in Nagpur will serve as the anchor institution for national and international collaboration.

A major milestone for the mission is the upcoming National One Health Conclave, scheduled for November 20-21 in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the event, signaling India's high-level commitment to the global 'One Health' approach. This initiative marks a crucial step in India's public health strategy, moving towards a more integrated, preventive, and holistic approach to health security.