Current Affairs - International - Discussion

India has introduced its first-ever national guidelines for animal blood banks, marking a major milestone in veterinary healthcare. Issued by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying on 25 August 2025, the framework establishes standards for donor screening, blood typing, biosafety, and ethical practices in animal blood transfusion. These guidelines address the lack of structured protocols that often led to risks during emergency transfusions. By promoting voluntary donation, establishing state-level blood banks, and creating a digital network for real-time tracking, India is advancing animal welfare. The integration of the One Health approach further strengthens links between human, animal, and environmental health.