The Kerala Government Veterinary Officers Association (KGVOA) celebrated World Veterinary Day with great enthusiasm on the 28th and 29th of April 2023 at the scenic Mascot Beach Resort in Kannur. The two-day event aimed to promote diversity, equity, and inclusiveness in the veterinary profession, bringing together veterinary professionals and their families from across the region. **Day 1: Cultural Night and Family Get-Together** The celebrations commenced on the first day with a vibrant cultural night and a heartwarming family get-together. The event started at 5:30 pm and was marked by a warm welcome address delivered by Dr. Sridhar Raj T, President of KGVOA Kannur unit. The cultural night was inaugurated by the esteemed Shri Kanhangad Ramachadran, a renowned music director and singer, adding an aura of grandeur to the occasion. Dr. Sajeev Kumar, Vice President of the North zone KGVOA, delivered the presidential address. Around 240 people, including veterinarians and their families, participated in the festivities. The evening was filled with delightful cultural performances by veterinarians and their families, as well as guest performances by external singers. The venue, set against the backdrop of the sea shore, provided a perfect ambiance for the celebration. The cultural night continued with a rich and sumptuous dinner, allowing attendees to enjoy the flavors of Kerala's cuisine. Dr. Sariga, Chairperson of the Cultural Committee, extended her heartfelt gratitude to all the participants and organizers in the vote of thanks. The event concluded on the first day at 11:00 pm, leaving everyone with fond memories of the festivities. **Day 2: Seminar on Wildlife Welfare and Public Health** The second day of the celebration started with the registration of attendees at 9:00 am, followed by a seminar on wildlife welfare and public health at 9:30 am. Dr. Saji K. S. conducted the seminar, enlightening the audience on the importance of preserving wildlife and the role of veterinary professionals in public health initiatives. The theme of this year's World Veterinary Day Celebration was "Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusiveness in the Veterinary Profession." Dr. Kuriakose Mathew T, General Secretary of KGVOA Kerala, delivered a warm welcome speech to commence the main program on the second day. Dr. Dilip Chandran, President of KGVOA Kerala, delivered the presidential address, emphasizing the significance of promoting diversity and inclusiveness within the veterinary community. The auspicious inauguration was done by the Honorable MLA of Kannur, Shri Ramachandran Kadanapally, who commended the efforts of KGVOA in supporting animal welfare and public health initiatives. The event also witnessed felicitation speeches by esteemed guests, including Dr. Usha R, Dr. Jyothimon P. B, Dr. Lekha S. J, Dr. Girish Babu M. P, and Dr. Sridhar Rajan., Dr Subin M. S, Dr Shameem A, Dr. Allwyn Vyas G , Secretary of KGVOA Kannur, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the event. The valedictory function, a fitting conclusion to the two-day celebration, was inaugurated by Dr. S. J. Lekha, District Animal Husbandry Officer (DAHO) of Kannur. The event came to a close with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Dr. V. Prasanth, Convenor of the Organizing Committee for World Veterinary Day 2023. The World Veterinary Day Celebration by KGVOA at Mascot Beach Resort, Kannur, was a resounding success, fostering camaraderie among veterinary professionals and promoting awareness about the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the veterinary profession. The event not only honored the contributions of veterinarians but also highlighted the critical role they play in safeguarding wildlife and public health. Overall, the celebration left a positive impact on all attendees and inspired the veterinary community to continue their tireless efforts in animal welfare and promoting a healthier world for both animals and humans alike.
