International Symposium on Sustainable One Health was organized by Centre for Sustainability and Climate Studies, Department of Ecology & Environmental Science, Pondicherry University in collaboration with Sri Aurobindo Society, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (Mahatma Gandhi Medical College & Research Institute), Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Veterinary Education and Research, ICMR- Vector Control Research Centre, Jawahar Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, PJN College of Agriculture and Research Institute and Nallm Clinic on 4^th September, 2024. The collaboration brings together a diverse group of institutions, each contributing unique expertise across various fields, including healthcare, veterinary sciences, agriculture and public health. Objective of the project was to foster a multidisciplinary approach in addressing critical issues at the intersection of human, animal and environmental health.

On this occasion, Dr. Mathimaran, Centre Head- Centre for Sustainability and Climate Studies, Pondicherry University welcomed the delegates. The program was followed by inaugural address by Prof. Rajneesh Bhutani (Registrar I/C), PU, Presidential address by Prof. K. Tharanikkarasu, Vice-Chancellor (I/C), PU), Guest of Honour Speech by Mr. Jonas Brunschwig, CEO, Consul General, Consulate General of Switzerland, Bengaluru, India  and Prof. Nihar Ranjan Biswas, Vice Chancellor of Balaji Vidyaapeeth. Dr. Kishor Kumar Tripathy, Member Secretary,  AuroBharati, Sri Aurobindo Society, Puducherry was invited to attend the program and deliver a talk at the panel discussion on the topic ‘Sustainable One Health.

During his speech, Dr. Kishor Kumar Tripathy explained that Sustainable One Health is an integrated approach to recognize the connection of environmental, animal, and human health. He elaborated the significant aspects of Sustainable One Health by giving several examples from the scriptures and the writings of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother. Emphasizing India’s traditional knowledge systems, he said that India is renowned for its traditional medical practices, including Yoga, Siddha, and Ayurveda. Even the ancient Vedas and other writings reference medical systems.

Dr. Tripathy also underlined the critical need for a sustainable one-health approach in order to address global health issues and its transformative results, which include sustainable landscapes, environmental, animal and human health. The vast and varied range of traditional beliefs, practices, and knowledge that have grown over thousands of years in the Indian subcontinent is included in the country’s ancient knowledge system. This body of knowledge includes the arts, science, medicine, philosophy, mathematics, and astronomy, among other disciplines.

Dr. Tripathy discussed the various texts and conscious approaches to sustainability based on Ayurveda, Yoga, and Siddha, referring to the Indian Knowledge Systems. He said that the fusion of nature and traditional practices reflects a broader understanding of health that takes into account the interconnectedness of all living things with their environment. Other panellists also offered their thoughts on particular facets of Sustainable One Health.