Gadvasu and NIT Rourkela Launch AI Project to Predict Animal Illness
Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (Gadvasu) in Ludhiana is teaming up with the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Rourkela. They are developing new technology to predict animal sickness before any visible symptoms appear. This initiative is part of a major research project funded under the Partnerships for Accelerated Innovation and Research (PAIR) programme of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF). The total grant exceeds Rs 90 crore.
Strengthening Early-Warning Systems for Livestock
The project aims to strengthen early-warning systems for livestock health. By predicting illnesses in advance, farmers can take preventive measures. This approach reduces losses for farmers and improves animal welfare significantly. Dr Devendra Pathak, the principal investigator, outlined three key research areas.
The first area focuses on AI and machine learning. It is titled "AI/ML-enabled systems for monitoring livestock health, optimizing production, and improving sustainability." This part uses artificial intelligence to assess livestock parameters and enhance monitoring systems. The goal is to improve health tracking, boost productivity, and support sustainable animal farming practices.
The second research area examines protein functionality. It is called "Enhancement of protein functional properties via non-thermal techniques for novel food product development: Modeling, in vitro evaluation, and human health implications." This study looks at non-thermal technologies to improve protein functionality for innovative food products. It emphasizes better availability and absorption of protein for human health.
The third area targets biodegradable biomaterials. Titled "Development of biodegradable biomaterials for application in healthcare technologies," it aims to create eco-friendly biomaterials for medical use. This supports global sustainability goals directly.
Practical Applications and Device Development
Dr Pathak explained the practical application of the livestock health project. NIT Rourkela will develop devices such as tags that attach to animals. These tags will record behavioural parameters continuously. Gadvasu will provide the necessary data to develop AI algorithms. The algorithms will analyse factors like movement patterns and rumination duration.
This system is designed to trigger alerts before any physical signs of sickness become visible. Timely intervention can then prevent disease outbreaks effectively. The protein-related project will also focus on improving human health through better protein utilization.
Collaborative Consortium and Funding Details
The PAIR programme operates through a flexible hub-and-spoke model. It promotes mentorship and collaboration between emerging institutions and leading research centres. Under this initiative, Gadvasu will work with several institutions. These include Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology (VSSUT), Sambalpur University, Odisha University of Technology and Research (OUTR), Fakir Mohan University (FMU), the International Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) Bhubaneswar, and Odisha University of Agriculture & Technology (OUAT). NIT Rourkela functions as the hub.
Together, these institutions form a multidisciplinary research consortium. They named it the "Consortium of technologies for sustainable agriculture, health, energy, and environment." The grant marks a major milestone for Gadvasu. It advances translational research and innovation at the university.
Under the PAIR–ANRF programme, the total budget is Rs 90.53 crore. Gadvasu will receive Rs 4.08 crore from this allocation. This funding supports the university's research capabilities extensively.
University Leadership Expresses Confidence
Gadvasu vice-chancellor Dr Jatinder Paul Singh Gill congratulated the research team. He stated that the grant would strengthen research capabilities further. It also expands the university's role in addressing challenges related to animal health, food innovation, and sustainable healthcare technologies.
Dr Gill expressed confidence that the projects would contribute significantly to national development. He believes they will enrich global scientific conversations as well. Director of research Dr Parkash Singh Brar also commended the faculty. He noted that the grant represents an important achievement for the university's research journey.
This collaboration between Gadvasu and NIT Rourkela showcases a forward-thinking approach to veterinary science. By leveraging AI and collaborative research, they aim to transform livestock management and healthcare technologies in India.
