`With political commitment, glanders can be eradicated in India'

BHUPENDRA NATH TRIPATHI, Director of the Hisar-based ICAR-NRCE talks to Down To Earth about the outbreak of glanders in India

What is the threat from glanders during animal fairs?

It is a big problem. We recently asked the UP government to not hold any animal fairs from October to March. Although it is hard on the animal owners, we feel it should be done at least once to create awareness. Unfortunately the government is doing nothing in this regard.

Are there any vaccines for glanders?

Not many advances have been made in this regard as the glanders pathogen is very dangerous to handle. Humans researching for a possible cure can also get infected, resulting in fatalities. The last human case was detected in 2000 at a defence laboratory in the US. Glanders is a weapon of bioterrorism. It was used during the two World Wars. It was also used by the Soviets during the Soviet-Afghan War that lasted from 1979 to 1989.

Can India eliminate glanders like North America, Europe and Australia have done?

Yes. We have the technology and competence. But we need political commitment and funds. We need a budget of at least `2 crore for more research and raising awareness.