India Launches $25 Million G20 Pandemic Fund

In October 2024, Union Animal Husbandry Minister announced the $25 million G20 Pandemic Fund, aimed at bolstering "animal health security" by August 2026.

The fund will focus on expanding animal health laboratories, developing laboratory networks, and enhancing disease surveillance.

Key Points

Collaborative Effort: The fund will be implemented with support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), World Bank, and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
Enhanced Disease Surveillance and Laboratory Infrastructure: The fund will strengthen disease surveillance systems, including genomic and environmental monitoring, while improving laboratory infrastructure and cross-border collaboration for early detection and response to zoonotic threats.
Addressing Zoonotic Disease Risk: India’s high vulnerability to zoonotic diseases, as highlighted by a score of 42.8 on the Global Health Security Index, underscores the need for this initiative.
Human Capacity Building and Data Management: The project includes human resource training, data system upgrades, and improved analytics to enhance decision-making, risk assessment, and communication on animal health risks.
Strengthening Livestock Disaster Management: It will support the development of a disaster management framework specific to the livestock sector, aiming to protect vulnerable populations, including small-holding farmers and women, from the economic and health impacts of zoonotic diseases.