In a major outreach initiative aimed at strengthening India’s livestock and dairy sector, more than 1.25 lakh livestock farmers from across the country participated in a Virtual Awareness Programme organised on the occasion of Animal Husbandry and Animal Welfare Awareness Month. The programme was chaired by Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Hon’ble Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Panchayati Raj.
farmers from 28 States and Union Territories through nearly 2,500 Common Service Centres (CSCs), showcasing the government’s expanding use of digital platforms to directly engage with grassroots stakeholders.
Government Highlights Role of Livestock Farmers in Viksit Bharat
Addressing the participants, Prof. Baghel praised livestock farmers for their critical contribution to India’s rural economy and food security. He described animal husbandry and dairy as key pillars in achieving the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of a Viksit Bharat, noting that millions of rural households depend on livestock for income and livelihood.
Highlighting India’s global leadership in milk production, the Minister pointed out that the country contributes nearly 25 percent of the world’s total milk output. He attributed this achievement to the dedication of farmers and sustained government support through
structured policy interventions.
Vaccination, Gokul Mission and Productivity Boost
Prof. Baghel underscored the impact of flagship initiatives such as nationwide livestock vaccination programmes, the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, and the adoption of Sex-Sorted Semen (SSS) technology. These measures, he said, have significantly improved breed quality, disease resistance, and overall productivity in the livestock sector.
Emphasising risk mitigation, the Minister also stressed the importance of animal insurance coverage and timely vaccination schedules to protect farmers from economic losses and ensure sustainable sectoral growth.
Focus on Zoonotic Diseases and Public Health
Shri Naresh Pal Gangwar, Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), drew attention to the growing challenge of zoonotic diseases illnesses that can spread from animals to humans. He highlighted the need for strong disease surveillance and effective control measures at the grassroots level to safeguard both animal and public health.
The Secretary also emphasised the relevance of Ethno Veterinary Medicine, particularly in the context of rising Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR). He noted that traditional, evidence-based practices can support responsible and sustainable animal healthcare.
Expert Sessions and Farmer Interaction
The virtual awareness programme featured expert-led sessions on a wide range of topics, including pastoralism, biosecurity, vaccination protocols, animal welfare standards, and animal-related laws. Educational videos on pastoralism and vaccination were screened to enhance understanding among farmers.
Prof. Baghel also interacted directly with livestock farmers during the session, addressing their grievances and clarifying doubts related to government schemes, subsidies, and support programmes, reinforcing a two-way communication approach.
Strengthening Awareness Through Digital Outreach
Officials including Ms. Varsha Joshi, Additional Secretary, DAHD; Shri Rama Shankar Sinha, Additional Secretary, DAHD; and Dr. Naveena B. Maheswarappa, Animal Husbandry Commissioner, also participated in the programme. The initiative reflects DAHD’s ongoing efforts to improve awareness, animal welfare compliance, and productivity in the livestock and dairy sector by leveraging digital infrastructure and ensuring direct engagement with farmers nationwide.
