Livestock Crucial for Enhancing Rural Economy and GSDP Growth: Tripura Chief Minister Saha
Click to start listening
Agartala, Dec 12 (NationPress) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Thursday emphasized the critical importance of livestock in strengthening the rural economy and the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP).
Inaugurating the A-HELP Programme (Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of Livestock Programme), the Chief Minister stated that the contribution of livestock in fortifying the rural economy of both the country and the state of Tripura is indispensable.
He mentioned, "The active involvement of self-help groups (SHGs) in generating livelihoods and fostering socio-economic progress through animal husbandry is extremely important."
Saha noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched several initiatives aimed at the wellbeing and growth of the populace.
In line with this vision, both the state and central administrations have been working earnestly. Veterinarians are providing their services even in the most remote areas of the state, he added.
Saha revealed that on September 1, 2021, the government of India signed an agreement between the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying and the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) through the Rural Development Department.
"As part of this agreement, members of self-help groups involved in animal husbandry will act as accredited representatives of A-HELP to deliver primary animal health services. I am confident that this program will succeed," he commented.
The Chief Minister underscored the necessity to enhance the state's veterinary infrastructure, pointing out that Tripura currently has only one veterinary college that suffers from a faculty shortage, and measures are underway to address this concern.
"Currently, the department’s personnel are proactively engaged in executing various developmental initiatives while also rendering animal health services. The involvement of animal husbandry staff as accredited representatives under A-HELP will significantly improve the state’s animal health infrastructure," he added.
Saha elaborated that under this program, animal husbandry workers associated with the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM) will be chosen as accredited A-HELP representatives.
These workers will undergo 16 days of specialized training, supported by the National Dairy Development Board, to prepare them for their responsibilities.
"After this training, the administrative structure of the Animal Husbandry Department will extend its services to rural animal husbandry farmers through these trained workers. However, essential services such as artificial insemination and vaccination will be carried out under the direct supervision of local veterinarians to guarantee appropriate animal health care," he clarified.
Furthermore, the A-HELP representatives will be responsible for registering livestock and poultry in villages, keeping track of their births and deaths, and ensuring comprehensive animal health management.
