Funds are being diverted into research
People take part in a rally to raise awareness against killing of dogs at Neckllace Road on Saturday. The rally was held by People for Animals and Blue Cross. (Photo: DC)
Hyderabad: On World Laboratory Animals Day, April 25, animal welfare activists say that computer generated models and chips which give statistical data for medicinal drugs are available in the market, which can restrict the use of animals for testing. A seminar of scientists, animal welfare organisations and veterinarians urged that animal testing must be optimised, which means that instead of eight to 10 animals, only two or three can be used for experiments.
Senior scientist Prof. A.J. Rao said, “With the boom in technology, there are computer-generated models which help evaluate the statistical data. This is a very important breakthrough as the use of animals is not required. There is a growing consensus that the lesser the use of animals the better for research.”
Funds are being diverted into research and the first question donors ask is about the number of animals that will be used for experiments. A senior scientist said, “When it is found that too many animals will be used, many donors are not interested in providing funds. It is important to cut down on the use of animals. It is important use the virtual models which are now available.”
There is growing sensitivity within the scientific community over subjecting animals to unnecessary pain or suffering. For this reason, the Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals has been constituted by the Centre. Committee scientist Prema Mohan said, “The reason for celebrating this day in government institutes is to acknowledge the contribution of animals in the field of education and research.
We would not have got medicines like antibiotics, vaccines, insulin, chemotherapy and also organ transplantation without use of animals. But at the same time, the CPCSEA is committed to ensuring that the animals are not ill-treated.”
( Source : dc correspondent )
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