KOHIMA — Advisor of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Kazheto Kinimi, underscored the need to revolutionise veterinary healthcare system and livestock farming to meet the domestic requirements.
Speaking at the general conference of the Nagaland Veterinarians’ Association (NVA) in Kohima on Wednesday, Kinimi pointed out that the current challenges due to shortages in production such as meat, milk, eggs, feeds and fodder, unemployment, high production costs and mortality from emerging diseases like African swine fever and lumpy skin disease.
Considering the predicament confronting the state, he urged them to strive for excellence in veterinary healthcare services and to elevate livestock farming to a top-tier, lucrative enterprise. He also encouraged the veterinarians to become agents of change.
The advisor recounted the department's journey from its humble beginning in 1961 as a small wing under the Agriculture department since its establishment as a separate entity in 1964 with a modest infrastructure of veterinary hospitals, dispensaries and farms. He added that the department has undergone significant growth and transformation.
He stated that after 59 years, the department has evolved into a mature and responsible entity by setting examples for others. He also highlighted the significant growth with increase in the number of doctors from 27 to 165 and hospitals from 4 to 13. Additionally, he informed that currently there are 55 veterinary dispensaries, 100 health centres, 14 disease diagnostic laboratories (DDL), 33 farms and numerous other institutes demonstrating remarkable progress.
Besides, the advisor highlighted their achievements such as constructing new buildings, establishing a veterinary college and operating various plants and agencies all contributing commendably to serving the people.
He noted that the state, along with the country, continues to feel the effects of the recent COVID-19 pandemic, particularly impacting livestock and poultry farmers. He, therefore, stressed the importance of overcoming those challenges through their technical expertise.
He also highlighted the enhanced expertise among professionals with advanced knowledge, modern methodologies and exposure to the latest technology, revolutionising the system.
Kinimi also emphasised the importance of aligning with sustainable development goals and vision 2030. In this context, he urged introspection to ensure progress aligns with formulated targets.
While encouraging acceleration and innovative approaches like public-private partnerships, he stressed the need for self-assessment of hospitals and dispensaries with private clinics in service and delivery system to address shortcomings and drive corrective measures.
Kinimi lauded the department for registering three indigenous animals as breeds and thanked NBGAR for their support.
He further pledged full government backing, including construction of new veterinary hospitals and provision of advanced equipment. He added that the government is keen to enhance veterinary services, support farmers and promote livestock and poultry farming on large scale.