Sri Vijaya Puram, June 19: The Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, Andaman & Nicobar Administration is conducting an intensive Foot and Mouth Disease Vaccination drive across South Andaman. Launched on June 2, 2025 the campaign has so far vaccinated 5506 cattle across villages, dairy farms and individual households against a target of 9000 cattle to be vaccinated by the end of the month.
To minimize stress to the bovine, the vaccination is done during cooler parts of the day. The campaign involves eleven dedicated Veterinary teams operating out of Veterinary Hospitals and Dispensaries viz. VH Junglighat, VH Garacharma (Team I & II), VD Rangachang, VD Manglutan (Team I & II), VD Port Mout, VD Elephant Point, VH Wimberlygunj (Team I&II), and VD Polyclinic.
The combined efforts of these teams despite monsoon rains have maintained a steady pace of minimum 300-400 vaccinations per day. This steady performance highlights the Department’s efficient ground level planning and coordination. The teams have shown great commitment –working early mornings and coordinating with Panchayati Raj Institutions to mobilize cattle.
Foot and Mouth Disease is a highly contagious viral disease affecting cattle and other cloven hoofed animals. It causes fever, sores in the mouth and feet, lameness, and a drastic drop of up to 30 % in milk production.
Although not usually fatal, the disease severely impacts rural livelihoods. Nationwide FMD related losses are estimated to exceed Rs.20,000 crore annually. In the Islands where most dairy farmers are small holders, FMD outbreaks can be devastating. Vaccination is the best protection. The Department’s drive contribute to India’s goal of FMD eradication from the entire nation by 2030.The animals are tagged, vaccinated and data uploaded in real time on the Bharat Pashudhan Portal, ensuring traceability and nationwide monitoring.
The Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, has urged all livestock cattle and buffalo owners to cooperate with the teams visiting their households and ensure their cattle & buffalos are vaccinated during the round. The cooperation of livestock owner is crucial in protecting the health of their bovine.