National Institute for Animal Agriculture

Hi! I’m Rahul Kumar, Assistant Director/Veterinary Pathology Manager & Head of Pathology, Kord Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory, Tennessee Department of Agriculture I am originally from India and have a background in veterinary pathology and animal health diagnostics. In my free time, I enjoy reading and writing poetry, exploring and publishing research in disease investigations, engaging in professional development, spending time outdoors in nature, and keen interest in history and visiting museums. My work in animal agriculture is deeply rooted in disease surveillance, pathology, and enhancing livestock health outcomes through diagnostics and research. The animal agriculture industry is essential for food security, animal health, and public safety. I am particularly passionate about how collaborative efforts among veterinarians, researchers, and producers drive innovation in disease diagnostics, prevention, and sustainable livestock management. The NIAA Leadership Program has been an invaluable opportunity to collaborate with industry leaders, gain insights into policy and regulatory frameworks, and further develop my leadership skills within the field of animal agriculture. I highly recommend this program to professionals looking to expand their networks, deepen their industry knowledge, and play an active role in shaping the future of sustainable and responsible animal agriculture. Want to learn more about the leadership program? Visit https://lnkd.in/g2YpxJsU.

Lately, one phrase has surfaced repeatedly: breaking down silos. It’s widely used in business and organizational settings to emphasize the need for greater collaboration and communication across departments, disciplines, or sectors. In today’s interconnected world, breaking down silos is crucial for addressing complex challenges—especially in food and agriculture, where multiple stakeholders must work together to create sustainable solutions. Read this month's Thursday Thoughts from NIAA's executive director, J.J. Jones.

We are excited to host a conversation with the board of the U.S. Ag Partnership Fund at our Annual Conference on April 8! Learn more and register here. >> https://ow.ly/NHTk50Vjztm Kip Tom, Collin Peterson, Lisa Van Doren

It's #NationalAgDay! Today celebrates what American Agriculture provides the world. Join us today to show appreciation for those who keep us fed and clothed. Find out more about #AgDay25 at https://www.agday.org/.

The American Sheep Industry Assn is hosting a meeting about scrapie eradication at NIAA's Annual Conference on April 9, 2025. This forum is designed to foster a discussion among industry stakeholders about what being scrapie-free will mean from a business and regulatory perspective. Learn more and register here. >> https://ow.ly/xEfX50Vjiyw

Join us at Annual Conference April 7-9! We are excited to host the Ag Legislation Panel with association executives to talk about their respective policy priorities. Learn more and register here. >> https://ow.ly/t0rQ50Vjzjv Chelsea Good, American Horse Council, Michael Schumpp, Andy Curliss, Zach Helder.

Join us at Annual Conference next month! We are excited to host great speakers for a fantastic program. The hotel room block ends today, March 17! Register and reserve your room here. >> https://lnkd.in/gWa4y2AM

Hauling livestock across state lines soon? Visit Interstate Livestock to know exactly what kind of documentation you need! https://lnkd.in/gJixAKKv

Join us at Annual Conference April 7-9! We are excited to host Joel Leftwich as the closing keynote at Annual Conference to pull together the thoughts and commentary of the day. Early bird rates close today and the hotel block closes on March 17. Register here. >> https://ow.ly/wh3950VfcSg

Next month, NIAA will host the 2025 Annual Conference! The conference will provide a space for deeper dives into topics like agriculture legislation, license to operate, the latest consumer insights, and having a united voice to secure animal agriculture’s future. Early bird rates end March 15. Check out our agenda and register here. >> https://ow.ly/uwSN50Vf9uR