Webinar on Sustainable Agriculture and One Health: A Collaborative Path Forward on 18th July,2024

The Extension Education Institute, Hyderabad, successfully conducted an insightful webinar on the theme "One Health for Agri and Allied Sectors," on 18th July,2024, focusing on the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health in the context of agriculture. The event featured two expert-led sessions, drawing significant participation from scholars, practitioners, and stakeholders in the agriculture and allied sectors. The first session, titled "Role of Natural Resource Management for One Health" was led by Dr. A. Amarender Reddy, Joint Director, Crop Health Policy Support Research, ICAR- NIBSM, Raipur, India. Dr. Reddy emphasized the critical role that effective management of natural resources plays in achieving sustainable agricultural practices. He highlighted innovative strategies and best practices that can help optimize the use of water, soil, and biodiversity to enhance agricultural productivity while ensuring environmental sustainability. The second session, "Integrating Soil Health and One Health for Sustainable Agriculture," was presented by Dr. S. Triveni, Professor and University Head, Department of Agril. Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, PJTSAU. Dr. Triveni elaborated on the concept of One Health and its relevance to soil health, demonstrating how the health of soil, plants, animals, and humans are intricately linked. The session provided comprehensive insights into sustainable soil management techniques and their impact on overall agricultural health and productivity. Both sessions underscored the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and a holistic approach to agricultural development. The discussions reinforced the need for integrating environmental conservation with agricultural practices to promote the well-being of ecosystems, animals, and humans alike. Earlier, during the inaugural session, Dr. M. Jagan Mohan Reddy, Director of the Extension Education Institute, Hyderabad, emphasized the newfound awareness of health importance following the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlighted the alarming depletion of natural resources, noting that the health of one organism is intricately dependent on the fitness of others. Dr. Reddy pointed out that much of this ecological damage stems from unscientific and unsustainable practices. "We have already inflicted irreparable harm on our ecosystems. It is imperative that we work towards restoring the past glory of our natural resources," he stated. Dr. Reddy expressed hope that the webinar would serve as a crucial step in connecting the dots, fostering a collaborative effort to rehabilitate and preserve our environment for future generations. An enthusiastic participant suggested that the farming community should have better access to decentralized bio-fertilizer units. This would empower farmers with sustainable agricultural practices and enhance soil health. The webinar was well-received, with active participation and engagement from over 55 attendees, who appreciated the relevance, timeliness, and comprehensiveness of the topics covered. The webinar, moderated by Dr. M. Preethi, Professor at the Extension Education Institute, Hyderabad, facilitated a robust exchange of ideas and solutions.