Bridging wildlife health and animal genetic resources: a one health approach to sustainable conservation

Zoonotic diseases are emerging as a major public health challenge in India, driven by complex interactions among humans, animals, and the environment. Analysis of Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme data (2018–2023) revealed that 8.3% of reported outbreaks were zoonotic, with a significant increasing trend, seasonal clustering, and high case fatality rates in diseases such as rabies and Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever. These patterns highlight the influence of ecological and anthropogenic factors, including climate change, habitat disruption, and intensified human–animal contact, in shaping disease dynamics. This article emphasises the importance of integrating wildlife conservation and Animal Genetic Resources (AnGR) within the One Health framework to enhance ecosystem resilience, reduce disease transmission, and support sustainable livelihoods. Wildlife plays a crucial role as both reservoirs and regulators of pathogens, while conservation of genetically diverse and resilient livestock populations improves disease resistance and adaptive capacity. The One Health approach, through interdisciplinary collaboration, strengthens surveillance, early warning systems, and outbreak response. Advances in genomics and bioinformatics have further transformed disease surveillance, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) tracking, and biodiversity conservation by enabling precise analysis of pathogen evolution, genetic diversity, and adaptive traits. Additionally, open data platforms and global collaborations have improved real-time data sharing and pandemic preparedness. India’s national initiatives, policy interventions, and successful models, such as state-level AMR control programs, demonstrate the effectiveness of coordinated, multi-sectoral strategies. Overall, this article highlights that a transdisciplinary One Health approach integrating genomics, conservation, and public health is essential for predicting and mitigating zoonotic risks, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring long-term ecosystem and human health sustainability.