Indian Journal of Health Sciences and Biomedical Research KLEU (Sep 2024)
Balancing act: Navigating regulations and ethical considerations in animal experiments – Intrinsic from international, Indian laws and Hinduism perspectives
Abstract
Animal experimentation is a critical component of scientific research, offering insights into disease mechanisms, drug development, and treatment efficacy. However, ethical considerations surrounding the use of animals in research have prompted the establishment of regulations and guidelines worldwide. This article examines the multifaceted challenge of navigating regulations and ethical considerations in animal experiments, considering perspectives from international laws, Indian regulations, and Hinduism. It discusses the tension between the scientific imperative for research advancement and the ethical imperative to minimize harm to animals and uphold their welfare. International guidelines, such as the Three Rs principles, provide a framework for ethical conduct, emphasizing the Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement of animal use. In India, the Committee for Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals regulates animal research, prioritizing animal welfare and requiring Institutional Animal Ethics Committees for oversight. Hinduism emphasizes principles of ahimsa (nonviolence) and compassion toward all living beings, influencing ethical perspectives on animal experimentation. Balancing scientific and ethical considerations requires careful consideration of alternative methods, reduction of animal usage, and refinement of experimental techniques. Cultural sensitivities, including those rooted in Hinduism, shape attitudes toward animal research and inform ethical practices. Collaborative efforts among researchers, policymakers, ethicists, and religious leaders are essential to promote responsible and ethical conduct in animal experiments while advancing scientific knowledge.
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