Odisha Govt Releases One Health Action Plan to Strengthen Public Health

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Tuesday launched a comprehensive State Action Plan on One Health to bolster public health infrastructure and preparedness in the state. Odisha Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling unveiled the plan alongside the Annual Report of IDSP-IHIP-2024.

As part of this initiative, the state government also released the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the Government of India for the establishment of a Health Emergency Operation Center (HEOC). This crucial step aims to enhance Odisha’s capacity to manage public health emergencies effectively.

The State Action Plan on One Health adopts an integrated approach to human, animal, and environmental health. It focuses on key strategies, including:

• Strengthening surveillance and response mechanisms for zoonotic diseases.
• Promoting the responsible use of antimicrobials in human and animal health.
• Enhancing intersectoral collaboration across health, agriculture, and environment sectors.
• Raising public awareness about the One Health principles.

The Annual Report of IDSP-IHIP-2024 provides a comprehensive review of the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) in Odisha. The report highlights major achievements, challenges, and areas for further improvement in the state’s disease surveillance and public health systems. Notably, Odisha secured the first position in IHIP performance for the year 2024, underscoring its commitment to efficient health data management and surveillance.

Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling commended the tireless efforts of the health administration across all 30 districts, acknowledging their dedication in ensuring the success of public health programs and strengthening Odisha’s healthcare resilience.

With this strategic action plan, Odisha reaffirms its commitment to a holistic and integrated approach to public health, paving the way for enhanced disease prevention, control, and emergency response mechanisms in the state.