An awareness camp under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme ASCAD (Assistance to States for Control of Animal Diseases) was organized at VAS Headquarters, Sopore, by Sheep Husbandry Department (SHD) Baramulla on Thursday.

The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation of around 20 progressive sheep farmers, including farmers from Scheduled Tribe and women categories, as well as newly established sheep unit holders from different areas of the block.
The main objective of the camp was the dissemination of scientific information regarding the overall management of sheep and goat farms, with a special emphasis on winter management practices in view of the approaching cold season in the region. The participating farmers were sensitized about key aspects of Housing management, Feeding and nutrition, Breeding management and Health management, emphasizing preventive vaccination, disease control measures under ASCAD, and deworming schedules.
The farmers were also apprised about various departmental schemes and welfare programmes, such as Integrated Sheep Development Scheme (ISDS), Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), National Livestock Mission (NLM), Kisan Credit Card (KCC), and Rural Employment Generation Programme (REGP), among others. Procedures and benefits available under these schemes were elaborated, encouraging farmers to avail themselves of the opportunities for income generation and livelihood improvement.
During the event, Seed Kits were also distributed among the beneficiaries under the P-28 activity of HADP, aiming at supporting fodder development and ensuring feed resource availability during the lean season.