Indian speakers vs international speakers and how we need to support both and promote local talent as we have so much of it now.

Veterinary medicine in India is going through a transformation. With improved access to technology, better education, and an ever-growing community of skilled professionals, we now have incredible local talent capable of educating, inspiring, and leading from within.

Yet, many CPD events, conferences, and workshops still lean heavily on international speakers. While global voices bring value, it’s time we ask ourselves:

Are we doing enough to support and showcase our own?

The Value of International Speakers

International speakers bring:

  • Global best practices
  • Exposure to advanced technologies
  • Insights into how challenges are handled in other regions
  • Cross-border collaborations and opportunities

 

They offer an outside-in perspective that can broaden our thinking and introduce new ideas. We continue to benefit from learning about standards and innovations that have worked in other parts of the world.

But that’s only one side of the story.

The Rise (and Recognition) of Indian Speakers

Today, India has an impressive pool of veterinarians who:

  • Are highly skilled in small and large animal practice
  • Speak at regional and national events
  • Train peers hands-on in surgery, diagnostics, and practice management
  • Understand the real-world challenges of Indian clinical settings
  • Communicate fluently in local languages and with cultural relevance

These professionals are not just competent they’re relatable, accessible, and deeply valuable to our growth as a community.

Why We Need to Support Local Speakers

  • Context Matters: Indian speakers understand local disease profiles, client behaviors, and clinic limitations better than anyone.
  • Cost-Effective Training: Local talent can travel, train, and teach at scale reducing costs and increasing accessibility.
  • Inspiration for Others: Seeing fellow Indian vets on stage motivates students and young professionals to aspire higher.
  • Stronger Professional Ecosystem: Supporting local speakers means building a self-sufficient, sustainable CPD model for India.

It’s Not About Choosing One Over the Other

We don’t need to pick sides. The goal is balance.

  • Let’s bring in international speakers to push our boundaries and expand our vision.
  • But let’s also elevate Indian voices who are ready and more than capable to lead the conversation.

Imagine a future where global and local speakers share the same platform, learn from one another, and grow the profession together. That future starts when we recognize and invest in our own.

Conclusion:

India doesn’t just have potential we already have the talent. What we need now is the platform, the support, and the mindset to showcase it.

Support international insights.

Champion Indian expertise.

And build a veterinary community that truly represents the best of both worlds.