Srinagar: Agriculture Production and Animal Husbandry Minister Javid Ahmad Dar on Friday directed officials to accelerate vaccination and intensify surveillance measures to contain the spread of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in Jammu and Kashmir, as 59 cattle have been affected by the disease in Kashmir so far.
The directions were issued during a review meeting convened to assess the prevailing situation of LSD and the containment measures being undertaken by the Animal Husbandry Department across the Union Territory.
Officials informed the meeting that nine active epicentres of the disease have been reported in Kashmir, with 59 cattle affected, including 55 active cases. No deaths linked to the disease have been reported so far. The meeting was also briefed about district-wise disease status, vaccination coverage, availability of medicines and vaccines, sample collection, testing and other preventive measures.
According to officials, Ganderbal remains the worst-affected district, accounting for 52 cases spread across seven epicentres. Bandipora has reported three cases, while the remaining cases have been recorded in Srinagar.
Taking district-wise feedback, Dar directed the concerned officers to strictly follow the prescribed treatment protocols and expedite vaccination in vulnerable areas to prevent further transmission of the disease. He stressed the need for timely intervention and enhanced surveillance, particularly in districts reporting a higher incidence of LSD.
The minister also called for stronger field-level coordination and directed the department to ensure adequate deployment of veterinary experts and field staff in affected areas. He asked officers to undertake regular field visits to assess the situation on the ground and monitor the implementation of containment measures.
Dar further directed the department to intensify awareness campaigns among livestock owners, including door-to-door outreach programmes, to educate farmers about preventive measures, early reporting of symptoms and proper care of infected animals.
He also instructed officials to ensure adequate availability of essential medicines and vaccines in all affected areas and maintain close monitoring of the disease situation for a timely and effective response.
Senior officers of the Animal Husbandry Department, including Heads of Departments from Kashmir, Chief Animal Husbandry Officers and other concerned officials, attended the meeting.
The review assumes significance as authorities seek to prevent further spread of the disease through vaccination, surveillance and awareness measures aimed at safeguarding livestock and minimising losses to farmers.
