Jamnagar, India – September 2025: In a significant development in the field of veterinary science and Ayurveda, Intra Institute (ITRA) has announced a joint research initiative with Vantara to advance animal health studies. This collaboration marks a pivotal step towards integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific research to ensure the wellbeing of animals across India.
According to ITRA Director, Tanuja Nesari, the institute is also playing a central role in establishing India’s first World Health Organization (WHO) center for veterinary health near Gordhanpar, Jamnagar. The center, which focuses on Ayurveda and animal healthcare, has completed approximately 70% of its construction and is expected to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December 2025. This landmark event underscores India’s growing role in global animal health and research.
A Landmark WHO Center in Jamnagar
The new WHO center near Gordhanpar is set to become India’s first dedicated hub for research in veterinary health under Ayurvedic practices. With investments running into crores, the center is designed to integrate traditional wisdom with modern veterinary science. Director Tanuja Nesari stated, “The WHO-ITRA center will serve as a nodal institution for Ayurveda in veterinary health across India. This facility aims to support research, education, and awareness for animal wellbeing.”
The center will also host a series of workshops, seminars, and conferences, bringing together scholars, practitioners, and students from across the country. This initiative aligns with the Ayush Ministry’s vision to promote Ayurveda and its applications in veterinary science, positioning ITRA as the only nodal institution for this specialized field.
Key Details Table:
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Collaboration | Intra Institute + Vantara |
| Location | Gordhanpar, Jamnagar, India |
| Focus Area | Ayurveda-based Animal Health Research |
| WHO Center Completion | 70% completed |
| Expected Inauguration | December 2025 by PM Narendra Modi |
| Courses Planned | Degree programs in Animal Health |
| Ministry Support | Ayush Ministry, India |
| Classical Texts Referenced | Gau Ayurveda, Hast Ayurveda, Palakapya Samhita, Matangalila, Shalihotra Samhita |
Vantara Collaboration: Research for Animal Wellbeing
As part of this collaboration, Vantara and ITRA will jointly conduct research focused on enhancing animal health using Ayurvedic principles. The partnership aims to develop evidence-based treatments, preventive care protocols, and wellness programs for livestock, pets, and other animals.
In the near future, the institute also plans to launch degree courses in animal health, combining modern veterinary practices with traditional Ayurvedic knowledge. This academic initiative will create skilled professionals capable of integrating these two complementary approaches to animal healthcare.
Ayurveda in Veterinary Science: A Rich Heritage
Ayurveda has long emphasized animal health in its classical texts. Scriptures like Gau Ayurveda, Hast Ayurveda, Palakapya Samhita, Matangalila, and Shalihotra Samhita provide detailed guidance on animal care, disease prevention, and treatment. These texts do not merely focus on curing illnesses but also highlight practices to maintain overall wellness in animals.
The upcoming WHO-ITRA center will leverage these classical Ayurvedic teachings while conducting modern research under the guidance of experts from Vantara and other partner institutions. This fusion of traditional and contemporary knowledge will enable India to emerge as a leader in veterinary health research globally.
Celebrating Ayurveda and Promoting Global Standards
The announcement of the collaboration and the progress of the WHO center were made during a press conference organized at ITRA, Jamnagar, as part of Ayurveda Day celebrations. The event emphasized the importance of Ayurveda in promoting planetary health and animal wellbeing. Experts highlighted how Ayurveda’s principles, when combined with modern veterinary science, can offer sustainable and holistic solutions for animal healthcare challenges.
Director Tanuja Nesari emphasized, “This initiative will not only enhance research but also educate future generations of veterinary practitioners. With Vantara’s collaboration, we aim to set new benchmarks in animal health research and ensure the application of Ayurveda in practical veterinary treatments.”
Also read: Vantara Zoo India: India’s Premier Wildlife Sanctuary and global Conservation Hub
Looking Ahead: Education and Research Opportunities
The collaboration with Vantara will open multiple avenues for students and researchers in the fields of veterinary science and Ayurveda. Degree programs, research fellowships, and practical training modules are being planned to encourage innovation and comprehensive understanding of animal health.
By integrating Ayurveda’s holistic principles with modern scientific approaches, the initiative aims to create a model that can be replicated across India and even internationally. The WHO center at Gordhanpar is expected to become a reference point for research, knowledge sharing, and policy development in the domain of veterinary health.
Conclusion
With the joint efforts of Intra Institute and Vantara, India is on the verge of a transformative journey in veterinary health research. The upcoming WHO-ITRA center in Jamnagar will not only honor India’s rich Ayurvedic heritage but also set a global standard for animal care and wellness. By bridging traditional knowledge with modern science, this initiative promises a healthier future for animals and strengthens India’s position in global animal health research.
