1962 Pashudhan Sanjeevani
The Pashudhan Sanjeevani initiative, launched in 1962, represents a crucial advancement by the Indian government within the larger framework of livestock development and healthcare. This program is designed to boost livestock productivity, enhance animal health services, and support the livelihoods of farmers reliant on animal husbandry. It was introduced as part of the National Digital Livestock Mission, overseen by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India. The primary objective of the Pashudhan Sanjeevani program is to modernize livestock management and ensure improved access to veterinary services through digital and door-to-door delivery methods.
Livestock is essential to the Indian economy, particularly for rural families. Farmers rely on cattle, goats, sheep, and other animals for milk, meat, manure, and draught power. However, obtaining timely veterinary care has consistently posed challenges in remote and rural regions. Diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), Brucellosis, and various parasitic infections significantly diminish productivity and lead to economic losses. Acknowledging this issue, the Pashudhan Sanjeevani initiative delivers veterinary services directly to the homes of livestock farmers by utilizing a strong digital infrastructure.
A notable aspect of the initiative is the creation of a centralized livestock database known as the Information Network for Animal Productivity and Health (INAPH). This database assigns a unique identification number to each animal, akin to the Aadhaar system for individuals. This facilitates the tracking of the animal’s health history, vaccination records, and breeding information. Such a system is instrumental in managing disease outbreaks, ensuring timely vaccinations, and empowering farmers to make well-informed decisions regarding their livestock.
Pashudhan Sanjeevani actively promotes Artificial Insemination (AI) services aimed at enhancing the genetic quality of livestock. AI is a cost-efficient method that facilitates the breeding of superior quality animals, resulting in increased milk production and improved disease resistance. Mobile veterinary clinics, along with trained para-veterinary personnel, are dispatched to villages to provide AI and basic treatment services. These mobile units come equipped with veterinary instruments, medications, and portable ultrasound devices. Farmers can conveniently schedule a visit through helpline numbers or mobile applications, minimizing the necessity for lengthy travel to government veterinary facilities.
An additional significant component of the scheme is the digitization of animal health records and monitoring systems. Health information gathered from field visits is uploaded into a central database, enabling authorities to track disease patterns and formulate suitable interventions. The program also endorses preventive healthcare initiatives such as deworming, mineral mixture supplementation, and mass vaccination campaigns, which are vital for sustaining herd health and decreasing mortality rates.
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The Pashudhan Sanjeevani initiative further empowers women and small-scale farmers by generating employment opportunities in rural regions. Numerous veterinary service providers receive training through skill development programs and are employed within their communities. This not only enhances rural income but also establishes a network of community animal healthcare workers who are trusted by local residents.
In conclusion, the 1962 Pashudhan Sanjeevani initiative represents a significant effort to merge technology, veterinary science, and rural development. By tackling the fundamental issues affecting livestock productivity—such as the absence of timely healthcare, inadequate breeding practices, and a lack of sufficient data—it sets the stage for a more robust and profitable livestock industry. This initiative is in line with the government’s goal of doubling farmers’ incomes and fostering Atmanirbhar Bharat through self-sufficiency in food and agriculture. With ongoing support, increased awareness, and effective implementation, this program has the capacity to revolutionize rural animal husbandry into a well-organized and high-yielding sector throughout India.