Director Animal Husbandry & Fisheries, Ladakh, reviews key livestock, fisheries projects in Kargil.

Director Animal Husbandry & Fisheries, Ladakh, reviews key livestock, fisheries projects in Kargil.
Kargil, Oct 31, 2024: On the third day of his four-day tour in Kargil district, Dr. Mohd Ismail, Director of Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, UT Ladakh, conducted an extensive review of key livestock and fisheries initiatives aimed at enhancing rural livelihoods, increasing productivity, and supporting sustainable growth.
Accompanied by Dr. Gulzar Hussain, Chief Animal Husbandry Officer (CAHO) Kargil, and Mohd Amine, Assistant Director of Fisheries Kargil, Dr. Ismail visited several dairy and fish farming units across the region, interacting with local farmers and department officials.
The day began with an inspection of a five-cow dairy unit managed by a Self-Help Group (SHG) at Chay Chay Sna. This unit, along with others in Ashina, Thasgam Sankoo, and Sanko, was established under the Special Development Programme (SDP) at a project cost of Rs 12.24 lakh with the department covering 50% of the cost.
All crossbred Jersey cows for these units were sourced from outside the UT to increase milk production in the district and enhance the local cattle population. Dr. Ismail emphasized that these high-yield cows are instrumental in bolstering the district’s dairy sector, assuring farmers of ongoing support in health services, technical training, and resources.
During his site visits, Dr. Ismail stressed the importance of Artificial Insemination (AI) as a vital tool to improve cattle genetics and enhance productivity, underscoring the department’s efforts to promote AI across the district.
He further highlighted the recently launched nationwide Livestock Census, which began on 25th October, and urged all field staff to ensure that accurate and up-to-date data is uploaded through the app. While emphasizing the value of precise data, Dr. Ismail noted that this information is crucial for effective livestock management and resource allocation, ultimately benefiting rural breeders.
He also stressed the need to upload the data of each and every treatment done through the app under the National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP).
The Director also inspected the Government Fish Farms at Khachan and Damsna, engaging with fisheries staff to discuss progress and challenges. At Khachan, he praised the team’s commitment and encouraged the adoption of sustainable fish farming practices supported under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMSSY).
The Government Fish Farm at Damsna also serves as a model for expanding fish farming opportunities in Kargil, reinforcing the department’s commitment to diversifying rural income sources and promoting aquaculture.
In addition to these facility visits, Dr. Ismail visited the Block Veterinary Officer (BVO) offices in Sankoo and Panikhar, where he evaluated infrastructure and service delivery. He emphasized the need for punctuality and professionalism, stressing that effective veterinary support is essential for livestock health and productivity. Dr. Ismail reiterated the department’s dedication to strengthening veterinary services, ensuring breeder needs are met, and expanding outreach for rural animal care.
While in Panikhar, Dr. Ismail met with residents of the village to hear public grievances related to livestock and veterinary services. He assured the community that their feedback would be considered in future departmental planning, reflecting the government’s commitment to addressing rural challenges in Kargil.
This tour by Dr. Ismail highlights the UT Ladakh Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Department’s dedication to building resilient, self-reliant communities through the promotion of sustainable livestock and fisheries practices, accurate data collection, and community engagement.
By investing in crossbred Jersey cows, promoting Artificial Insemination, and supporting fisheries, the department aims to strengthen the region’s rural economy and foster sustainable growth in Ladakh.