Sri Vijaya Puram, July 8: With a limited population of breedable cattle, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services (AH&VS) has undertaken targeted efforts to identify and treat animals facing reproductive challenges, thereby increasing milk production and supporting farmers’ livelihoods. In this connection, the Department initiated a series of Veterinary Health and Infertility Camps on June 16, 2025, across villages in North and Middle Andaman to address infertility, enhance cattle health, and promote sustainable livestock farming.
As of July 5, 2025, the Department had conducted 27 camps, serving approximately 660 cattle in various locations, including Billiground (2 camps, 31 cattle), Diglipur (11 camps, 257 cattle), Kadamtala (1 camp, 32 cattle), Nabagram (7 camps, 135 cattle), Rangat (2 camps, 17 cattle), Sitanagar (3 camps, 61 cattle), and Webi (2 camps, 125 cattle). Veterinarians provided immediate on-site treatments to address reproductive disorders, health issues, and nutritional deficiencies, ensuring prompt care for the animals. These interventions aim to minimize production losses, enhance fertility, and improve the economic conditions of farmers reliant on livestock for their livelihoods.
The camps focused on educating farmers about effective reproduction management practices to optimize herd productivity and milk yields. Participants were informed about the critical role of timely heat detection and Artificial Insemination (AI) in achieving higher conception rates. Veterinary experts emphasized that precise timing of AI, coupled with regular monitoring, significantly improves reproductive outcomes. Farmers were also advised to provide balanced feed regimens, incorporating green fodder, mineral mixture supplements, and adequate nutrition to correct negative energy balance, a common cause of infertility in cattle. Specific recommendations were also made.
Beside immediate treatments, the camps served as a vital platform for knowledge transfer, equipping farmers with modern animal husbandry techniques. Interactive sessions were held, in which, farmers were encouraged to adopt these practices to boost productivity and reduce economic losses due to reproductive inefficiencies.
The Department plans to continue these camps to reach additional villages, ensuring that remote communities in North and Middle Andaman have access to essential veterinary services and resources.