Source: ET
Context:
The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), Government of India, has introduced the country’s first comprehensive guidelines for animal blood transfusion and the establishment of animal blood banks.
Key Highlights:
- First-of-its-kind Guidelines: India has, for the first time, formalized a framework for safe animal blood transfusions and the creation of blood banks.
- Regulatory Framework: The guidelines will regulate donor selection, collection, storage, testing, and transfusion of animal blood to ensure scientific and ethical practices.
- Scope: The framework covers both companion animals (like dogs and cats) and large animals (such as cattle and equines).
- Veterinary Healthcare Boost: This move is expected to improve emergency and critical veterinary care, reduce mortality in animals, and enhance animal welfare standards.
- Implementation: Veterinary institutions, hospitals, and research centres will play a key role in adopting these standards.
Significance:
- Marks a landmark step in veterinary medicine in India.
- Aligns with global practices in animal healthcare and welfare.
- Supports livestock health, pet care, and veterinary research.
