Are States Properly Funded for Vaccination of Bovine Against Livestock Diseases?
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Synopsis
The government confirms adequate funding for bovine vaccinations against critical livestock diseases, highlighting major vaccination programs across states. This proactive measure aims to combat diseases like FMD and LSD, ensuring animal health and boosting dairy production across the nation.
Key Takeaways
- States are adequately funded for bovine vaccinations.
- Over 125 crore animals vaccinated since 2020.
- Vaccinations cover FMD, LSD, and Brucellosis.
- 10 states reported cases of LSD in 2025.
- Financial support for vaccination activities is ongoing.
New Delhi, Aug 5 (NationPress) The government has confirmed that states are sufficiently funded for the vaccination of all bovines against various livestock diseases including Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD), and Brucellosis. This information was presented to the Parliament on Tuesday.
In a written response to the Lok Sabha, Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, outlined the vaccination program for dairy animals across the nation, as part of the Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP).
Baghel emphasized that the department offers 100% support to states and Union Territories (UTs) under the LHDCP for the vaccination of all bovines against diseases such as FMD.
He pointed out that the vaccination for Brucellosis is specifically administered to female bovine calves aged between 4 to 8 months.
Additionally, financial aid is made available to States/UTs for vaccinations against diseases like LSD, Haemorrhagic Septicaemia (HS), and Black Quarter (BQ).
The vaccination schedule includes administering vaccines to bovines every 180 days for FMD, a single dose for female calves aged 4-8 months, and annual vaccinations for diseases like LSD, HS, and BQ to control and ultimately eradicate these diseases, according to the MoS.
Since 2020, over 125 crore animals have been vaccinated for FMD under LHDCP, as of July 30. During the same timeframe, 4.77 crore animals received Brucella vaccinations, and more than 30 crore were vaccinated for LSD.
Earlier, Baghel had informed the Rajya Sabha that 10 states reported cases of LSD in 2025.
LSD manifests through the emergence of skin nodules, fever, swollen lymph nodes, reduced milk production, and difficulty in movement.
Reportedly, LSD has affected ten states: Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, Mizoram, Maharashtra, and Karnataka, as shared by Baghel in his written response.
Notably, Maharashtra and Gujarat are witnessing a resurgence in LSD cases, with approximately 300 cattle infected across eight districts in Gujarat.
The transmission of the LSD virus is largely due to vector bites, with mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects being significant contributors.
Over the past two years, around 200,000 cattle have succumbed to the disease nationwide, with millions more experiencing a decrease in milk production.
Under the LHDCP, Rs. 196.61 crore has been allocated to states/UTs in the 2024-25 fiscal year for procurement of vaccine doses against LSD and related disease control efforts, as stated by Baghel.
Point of View
It is crucial that the government ensures adequate funding for bovine vaccinations. The commitment to combating livestock diseases is not just a matter of animal welfare but significantly impacts the agricultural economy. As we face challenges like LSD outbreaks, it is imperative for states to effectively utilize these funds to safeguard our livestock population and secure the livelihoods of farmers.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What diseases are covered under the vaccination program?
The vaccination program covers Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD), and Brucellosis among others.
How many animals have been vaccinated since 2020?
Since 2020, more than 125 crore animals have been vaccinated for FMD, with additional vaccinations for other diseases.
What is Lumpy Skin Disease?
Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) is characterized by skin nodules, fever, and decreased milk yield, affecting cattle.
Which states reported cases of LSD?
Ten states, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu, have reported cases of Lumpy Skin Disease.
How is the LSD virus transmitted?
The LSD virus is primarily transmitted through vector bites, including mosquitoes and ticks.
