Shadow Correspondent
Doda, SEP 09:
The Animal Husbandry Department Doda today organized an Awareness cum Medicine Distribution Camp at village Shiva under the Information, Extension and Communication (IEC) programme.
The camp focused on educating farmers about animal healthcare, disease prevention and control, vaccination, good livestock management practices, breed improvement, fodder development, livestock insurance and various welfare schemes being implemented by the Government.
As part of the outreach initiative, 1 kg of mineral mixture was provided to each participating farmer to promote better nutritional management and overall health of livestock.
Chief Animal Husbandry Officer (CAHO) Dr. Irfan Ali Wani briefed the farmers in detail about various departmental schemes, programmes and employment opportunities for rural youth in the livestock and poultry sectors.
He highlighted the scope of animal husbandry as a source of sustainable livelihood and encouraged farmers and unemployed youth to take advantage of the financial and technical assistance available under different government initiatives. The CAHO also interacted with the farmers, listened to their concerns and responded to their queries regarding departmental schemes and animal husbandry related activities.
During the technical session, Veterinary Assistant Surgeon, LDC Ghat Dr. Naveed Anjum sensitized the participants about Rabies, its public health significance, prevention of dog bites and the importance of immediate medical attention following suspected exposure.
He also elaborated on the role of Kisan Khidmat Ghars (KKGs) in providing technical guidance and facilitating farmers in accessing departmental services and schemes.
He further educated the farmers about Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), emphasizing the judicious and rational use of antibiotics, avoidance of self medication and the importance of using antimicrobials only on veterinary advice.
Veterinary Assistant Surgeon, FAC Chiralla Dr. Shabir Hussain Mir conducted a dedicated awareness session on Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) and Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD). He explained the important clinical signs, modes of transmission and preventive measures associated with these economically important diseases. Farmers were sensitized about the importance of timely vaccination, biosecurity, vector control, maintaining hygiene, restricting unnecessary movement of animals and promptly reporting suspected cases to the nearest veterinary centre. Special emphasis was laid on early detection and timely veterinary intervention to minimize economic losses. He also highlighted various good managemental practices for dairy animals, including proper nutrition, hygiene, housing, clean drinking water and regular health monitoring, to improve animal health, productivity and farm profitability.
The camp concluded with an appeal to the farmers to remain vigilant about animal diseases, follow recommended vaccination schedules and biosecurity measures, adopt scientific animal husbandry practices and make maximum use of the various schemes and services being provided by the Animal Husbandry Department.
