President Murmu Proclaims Animals as 'Jeevan Dhan' at 11th IVRI Convocation

Pashu Sandesh, 30th june 2025

The prestigious 11th convocation of the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) was held today at the Swami Vivekananda Auditorium, Izatnagar, with President Droupadi Murmu as chief guest and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath among the distinguished attendees.

Speaking on this occasion, President Murmu emphasised the profound value of animals in human society, calling for a shift in terminology away from “pashu” (animal) toward “jeevan dhan” (wealth of life). She urged veterinary professionals to champion compassion, conservation, and sustainability in their practices.

Highlighting declining species such as vultures, she applauded earlier regulatory measures to phase out harmful drugs and urged the institute to continue developing low-cost, environmentally conscious treatments for animals, humans, and ecosystems alike. She urged IVRI graduates to embrace emerging scientific tools including genome editing, embryo transfer, artificial intelligence, and big-data analytics—to address “One Health” challenges at the nexus of animal, human, and environmental health. She also encouraged entrepreneurial ventures in animal health, noting these could enhance both employment opportunities and the nation’s rural economy.

Speaking on this occasion, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath described IVRI’s 136-year journey as “a source of inspiration for the nation,” and lauded the institution for becoming “a life‑saving centre not only for livestock, but for all living beings.” He applauded IVRI’s impact during the COVID‑19 pandemic—conducting over 200,000 RT‑PCR tests—and the rapid development and deployment of the lumpy skin disease vaccine, which helped save thousands of cattle across UP.

Distinguished Attendees

The ceremony was attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Governor Anandiben Patel, Jharkhand Governor Santosh Gangwar, and Union Ministers Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Bhagirath Choudhary.

IVRI’s Continuing Legacy

Under the dynamic leadership of Director Dr Triveni Dutt, IVRI celebrated its legacy as a premier institution dedicated to veterinary research, education, and rural development. Today’s ceremony recognized a vibrant class of graduates with degrees including BVSc, MVSc, and PhD for sessions up to early 2025. The institute reaffirmed its commitment to producing skilled professionals who will advance livestock health and bolster India’s animal-care capabilities.

The ceremony underscored IVRI’s commitment to ethical veterinary practice, scientific advancement, and societal impact. With hundreds of graduates stepping into roles as veterinarians, researchers, and entrepreneurs, the event marked a promising dawn for animal welfare and rural advancement in India.