The First National Conference on 'Rational Use of Animals in Research' jointly organized by the Laboratory Animal Scientists' Association, the Indian Pharmacological Society and the Centre for Advanced Research in Preclinical Toxicology, National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR), Hyderabad was held on 1-2 November, 2006 at the Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR) Auditorium, Hyderabad.
Dr. B. Sesikeran, Director NIN, welcomed the gathering. Dr. P.V. Diwan, Secretary IPS introduced the Indian Pharmacological Society and its objectives. Dr. S.G. Ramachandra, President, LASA explained the objectives and future plans of LASA. Dr. R.N.S. Gowda, Vice Chancellor, Karnataka Veterinary Animal and Fishery Sciences University opened the conference by 'Lighting the lamp' and delivered the 'Inaugural address'.
The Chief Guest Maj. Gen. (Retd) Dr. R.M. Kharb, Chairman, Animal Welfare Board of India in his address, acknowledged the fact that tremendous contributions have been made by animal usage in scientific experimentation and research in pharmaceutical and bio-medical sciences by way of production of life saving sera and vaccines and perfecting surgical techniques that have saved millions of human lives. But, he also drew the attention of the august gathering to the fact that in the process, animals have undergone stress, pain and suffering. He emphasized the need for a holistic view about the use of animals for scientific experimentation and exploring alternative methods offered by new bio-technological techniques.
Dr. S.P. Vasi Reddy, Chairman and Managing Director, VIMTA Laboratories Ltd. Hyderabad inaugurated the LASA Website. Dr. Manmohan Singh, IAS. Vice Chancellor, Sri Venkateshwara Veterinary University, Tirupati while delivering the 'Special Address' expressed his happiness that a group of committed scientists have started the Laboratory Animal Scientists Association of India. Dr. Y.K. Gupta, Head, Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi and President of the Indian Pharmacological Society, delivered the 'Keynote address' and highlighted the hurdles faced by biomedical science and the scientific community due to the unscientific attitude of some animal activists.
Dr. Syed S.Y.H. Qadri, the Organizing Secretary of the Conference and Secretary, LASA delivered the vote of thanks.