Association of American Veterinarians of Indian Origin (AAVIO) took part in the first-ever Belonging & Engagement Roundtable hosted by the American Veterinary Medical Association, joining leaders from seven veterinary affinity and allied organizations to discuss mentorship, leadership development, workforce challenges, and ways to foster a stronger sense of belonging across the profession.
Held at the AVMA headquarters, the roundtable brought together representatives to exchange experiences and identify opportunities for collaboration aimed at supporting veterinarians and the communities they serve.
Representing AAVIO, the organization’s president, Dr. Ravi Murarka, outlined the group’s mission to support veterinarians of Indian origin through mentorship, continuing education, professional networking, leadership development, advocacy, and international collaboration. He said the organization works with veterinary students, recent graduates, internationally trained veterinarians, researchers, practitioners, and industry professionals across the United States and Canada.
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During his presentation, Murarka reflected AAVIO’s continuing education efforts, including hands-on surgical wet laboratory training programs conducted with veterinary colleges and professional organizations in India. The programs have been organized in cities including Jaipur, Mumbai, Akola, Nagpur, and Shirwal in partnership with institutions affiliated with Maharashtra Animal & Fishery Sciences University, providing advanced clinical and surgical training for practicing veterinarians.
He also highlighted AAVIO’s collaboration with the Post Graduate Institute of Veterinary Education & Research of Rajasthan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences to strengthen international academic partnerships and veterinary education.
Murarka said his discussions with Dr. Samit Sharma focused on veterinary education, skill development, and expanding future collaboration between India and the United States.
The presentation also showcased AAVIO’s public health and humanitarian initiatives, including support for Mission Rabies, One Health programs, rabies awareness campaigns, large-scale dog vaccination drives, and relief efforts during India’s Lumpy Skin Disease outbreak.
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Addressing broader issues affecting the profession, Murarka pointed to challenges such as mental health concerns, burnout, compassion fatigue, workforce shortages, educational debt, barriers faced by internationally trained veterinarians, and the rise of cyberbullying and online harassment targeting veterinary professionals. He said stronger mentorship, peer support, and collaboration among veterinary organizations are critical to improving professional well-being and building a more resilient workforce.
Murarka concluded by reaffirming AAVIO’s commitment to advancing veterinary medicine through education, leadership, mentorship, humanitarian service, and international partnerships. He also thanked the American Veterinary Medical Association for inviting the organization to participate in the inaugural roundtable and for recognizing the contributions of veterinarians of Indian origin to the global veterinary profession.