India’s largest animal hospital to be built in Junagadh for Rs. 500 crore

Junagadh: As Gir Jungle remains the last place where Asiatic lions are found, Junagadh is set to have India’s largest animal treatment facilities, often referred to as the “AIIMS for wildlife.” The National Wildlife Disease Diagnostic and Research Centre (NWDDRC), designated as a referral hospital, is slated to be built on a 21-hectare plot in Nava Pipaliya village, located approximately 20 km from Junagadh city.

The forest department has taken possession of the land, and the state government is currently seeking a suitable date for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to officiate the groundbreaking ceremony for this significant facility. A senior forest officer noted that this medical facility will parallel AIIMS for humans, with the detailed project report (DPR) currently in the preparation stage.

The establishment of this international-level medical facility is deemed necessary due to the escalating prevalence of zoonotic diseases among animals. Aaradhna Sahu, Chief Conservator of Forest (CCF) in Junagadh, emphasized that this referral hospital is part of Project Lion, with the Indian government developing a comprehensive roadmap for its implementation. The facility is anticipated to be highly advanced, with a focus on research to address pandemics and various diseases affecting animals.

The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) is the key agency responsible for executing this project under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, while the state forest department is a collaborating partner. The estimated cost of the project is around Rs 500 crore.

In addition to providing medical treatment for diseased animals, the facility will house facilities for testing animal samples, manufacturing vaccines, advanced medical equipment, an internationally accredited laboratory, a diagnostic center, and a team of well-trained staff recruited from across the country. The facility aims to ensure self-sufficiency in vaccine production, ultimately enabling India to export vaccines for animals once operational.