SRINAGAR: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Javid Ahmad Dar, today inaugurated the state-of-the-art Small Ruminant Hospital Complex at Lal Mandi, Srinagar, marking a significant milestone in strengthening veterinary infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister described the facility as a major step towards modernising the livestock sector, particularly benefiting the sheep and goat rearers across the Kashmir Valley. He emphasised that the government is committed to ensuring access to advanced animal healthcare services, which are crucial for enhancing productivity, improving livelihoods and boosting the rural economy.
“The establishment of this modern hospital complex reflects our focused efforts to build robust veterinary infrastructure and provide specialised healthcare services for the small ruminant sector. This facility will not only improve disease diagnosis and treatment but also support farmers in achieving better returns from their livestock,” the Minister said.
The Minister highlighted that the hospital, equipped with a modern operating theatre and Digital X-ray unit, will function as a referral centre offering advanced clinical and surgical care that was previously not readily accessible within the region.
He extolled that this is the second such advanced facility established by the Sheep Husbandry Department, Kashmir, following the successful operationalisation of a similar hospital at Chijhama, Baramulla. He reiterated the government’s vision to expand such facilities across all districts to ensure equitable access to quality veterinary care.
Referring to the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), the Minister underscored the importance of innovation and scientific interventions in the livestock sector. He said that under Project-24 of HADP, the introduction of Embryo Transfer Technology (ETT) is a transformative step towards genetic upgradation of livestock, which will significantly enhance the productivity and breed quality in the coming years.
The Minister also appreciated the efforts of the Sheep Husbandry Department and its officers for their dedication in implementing progressive schemes and strengthening the livestock ecosystem in the Union Territory.
On the occasion, a Sheep Calendar was also released as part of the department’s awareness and outreach initiatives aimed at educating the farmers and stakeholders.
