Agricultural varsity to set up vet emergency response unit
Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University (HPAU) will be setting up a veterinary emergency response unit on its campus at Palampur soon.
Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University (HPAU) will be setting up a veterinary emergency response unit on its campus at Palampur soon.
Vice-chancellor, HPAU, Dr KK Katoch said this while addressing veterinary scientists, students and officers from the state department of animal husbandry during the concluding ceremony of a daylong workshop on animal disaster management.
The unit will be established at Dr GC Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Science - a constituent college of the university.
“The unit will be helpful in saving the livestock during emergencies like natural calamities,” said Dr Katoch.
Dr Katoch said animals play an important role in sustaining economy of locals through livelihood protection and also help in poverty reduction.
“Their loss in various disasters adversely affects the economic growth. Disaster preparedness can help in reducing the loss of animal life and can also minimise the impact on economy during calamities in future,” said Dr Katoch.
Emphasising on the importance and synergy between welfare of animals and people, Dr Katoch said the university has decided to introduce a course on disaster management.
“We are also considering establishing a disaster management unit provided the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) readies to extend support for the unit,” he added.
Dr Sanjit Katoch, dean of veterinary college, said during outbreak of diseases, earthquakes and floods it was imperative to protect animals and the college would create awareness among stakeholders on the issue. He also elaborated the steps to be taken before, during and after disaster.
Dr KS Pathania, joint director, department of animal husbandry, said some areas of the state, especially the tribal belt, was vulnerable for animal disaster.