V.P. Singh, Director of the Animal Husbandry Statistics Division, Department of Animal Husbandry Dairying & Fisheries, Government of India, convened an interactive meeting to assess and monitor the progress of the 21st Livestock Census in Baramulla District of Jammu & Kashmir. This meeting provided a detailed review of the existing challenges and obstacles in conduct of 21st Livestock Census in the district.
During the session, District Nodal Officer, Baramulla Dr G A Lone, apprised the chair about the progress & status of 21st Livestock Census in the district. DNO Baramulla also assured that strict directives have been given to ensure that correct data is uploaded in real-time while addressing any outstanding backlogs comprehensively.
Shri V. P Singh emphasised the importance to getting good quality census data which forms the baseline for formulation & implementation of various schemes. He also focused on the livestock census concerning the pastoralist community. It was reported that data pertaining to this community has already been compiled and the Government of India is formulating policies aimed at enhancing welfare and healthcare for their livestock. Furthermore, migratory livestock will be prioritized in upcoming policies from the Central Government. Shri Ramesh Bhatti, Project Coordinator, Centre for Pastoralism & Shri Zahid Parwaz Choudhary, Pastoralist, actively participated in the discussion.
Director, AHS Division also emphasised the importance of timely collection of census data by the filed staff. He stressed upon all DNOs to remain vigilant during the census period and ensure periodic review of census operations in their respective districts. It is important to note that a livestock census is conducted every five years across the entire country, overseen by the Government of India. Currently, the 21st Livestock Census is underway in all 20 Districts of Jammu & Kashmir. The meeting included participation from Officers from Animal Husbandry, Baramulla, Supervisors & Enumerators form District Baramulla. The meeting concluded with the vote of thanks by Dr Shabir Ahmad Mir, Livestock Development Officer, Baramulla.