Early Times Report JAMMU, Dec 21: The three-day Sector Connect Training Program on Field Epidemiology in One Health (FEPOH) concluded successfully today in Jammu. Organized by the Directorate of Health Services Jammu, with the support of the National Health Mission J&K and the State Surveillance Unit, the program aimed at enhancing preparedness for Integrated Public Health Responses to emerging zoonotic diseases, climate change, antimicrobial resistance, and biodiversity loss. The workshop brought together professionals from diverse sectors, including Health, Animal Husbandry, Wildlife, and Food Safety departments from across all districts of the Jammu division. The initiative provided a platform to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and develop strategies for bridging gaps between health sectors, strengthening the region's response to public health threats. The training was held under the leadership of Dr. Syed Abid Rashid Shah, Secretary of Health and Medical Education, J&K, and attended by Dr. Rakesh Magotra, Director of Health Services Jammu; Dr. Ata-Ul-Munim Tak, Deputy Secretary of Health & Medical Education; Dr. Rakesh Koul, Deputy Director Research, Department of Animal Husbandry Jammu; Dr. Adhiraj Mishra, Assistant Commissioner, DAHD; Dr. Anil Kumar, Principal Advisor, NCDC, New Delhi; and Dr. Ravinder Pal Singh, Public Health Consultant, CDC (US). Dr. Harjeet Rai, State Surveillance Officer, Jammu, emphasized the importance of inter-sectoral collaboration in addressing public health challenges. "This program has strengthened the foundation of integrated public health responses in our region. By fostering collaboration across various sectors, we are better equipped to manage and mitigate public health risks effectively," Dr. Rai said. The program included technical sessions, case studies, and hands-on training, enhancing participants' skills in disease surveillance, data management, and public health communication. Experts from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) led these sessions, ensuring that the training was both comprehensive and impactful. The success of the FEPOH program underscores the commitment of all stakeholders to safeguarding public health through proactive and collaborative efforts. Participants expressed their gratitude for the valuable insights gained, which will enable them to contribute effectively to integrated public health strategies in their respective fields. This training marks a significant milestone in building resilient systems for addressing One Health challenges in the region, paving the way for stronger, more coordinated responses to public health threats. |