The 19th National Conference of the Indian Association of Women Veterinarians (IAWV) opened today at the College of Veterinary Science (CVSc), Khanapara, bringing together women leaders, experts, scholars, and young professionals from across the country for a two-day discussion on the future of veterinary science. Hosted by the Assam Chapter of IAWV in collaboration with the Assam Veterinary and Fishery University (AVFU), the conference is centered on the theme, “Role of Women Veterinarians in Strengthening One Health through Innovations in Animal Husbandry, Clinical Practices, and Wildlife Domain.”
The inaugural ceremony was chaired by AVFU Vice Chancellor Dr. Niranjan Kalita, who underscored the growing influence of women veterinarians in India’s animal healthcare landscape. He praised the steady rise of women in research, clinical care, and wildlife medicine, calling them “a crucial force in advancing the One Health mission.”
Delivering the welcome address, Dr. Munmun Sarma highlighted how women professionals are reshaping the veterinary sector through field innovations and community-based animal health initiatives.
Guest of Honour Dr. Kasturi Bhattacharya, Director (Academic & Clinical), stressed that the One Health approach—linking human, animal, and environmental wellbeing—can only succeed with a strong gender-inclusive workforce. She noted that women veterinarians often work directly with communities, giving them a deeper understanding of disease dynamics, livestock needs, and conservation challenges.
College Dean Dr. B.N. Saikia also addressed the gathering, outlining the college’s achievements and ongoing efforts to strengthen veterinary education and research in Assam.
A key highlight of the event was the felicitation of two progressive women from the agricultural sector: Satyavati Tumung, a successful layer poultry farmer guided by AVFU, and Junuma Mali Deka, a rising dairy entrepreneur. Their recognition showcased how women are driving change not only in veterinary science but also in allied industries such as farming and rural entrepreneurship.
