Punjab launches free tetanus vaccination drive for equines

In a significant step towards animal welfare, the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has announced a statewide initiative to provide free tetanus toxoid vaccinations for equines, including horses, donkeys, and mules.

Announcing this initiative, S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian, Minister of Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development, and Fisheries, stated that the Animal Husbandry Department will soon roll out a vaccination drive. He directed officials to ensure all necessary preparations for safeguarding the health and well-being of equines.

Addressing a seminar on “Care & Cure of Domestic Animals with Recent Advances in Diagnosis”, organized under the ASCAD scheme by the Animal Husbandry Department at Kisan Bhawan, the Cabinet Minister highlighted the importance of collaboration between veterinary doctors and farmers.

S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian emphasized that veterinary professionals must actively engage in educating and assisting farmers in utilizing the department’s programs. "By bridging the gap between technical expertise and practical application, the department would empower farmers to achieve greater success in their agricultural allied endeavours," he said.

During the seminar, experts from Guru Nanak Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, presented insights on advancements in Repeat Breeding treatment for large animals, Colic management in equines, diagnosis of parasitic diseases in livestock, and snake bite management.

Speaking at the event, Director of Animal Husbandry, Dr. GS Bedi, emphasized that the topics were field-oriented, and veterinarians engaged in in-depth discussions. "The new advancements will help increase milk production, reduce stray animal populations, and contribute to overall animal welfare," he stated.

Experts, including Dr. Mrigank Honparkhe, Dr. Gurpreet Singh, Dr. Shushma Chhabra, and Dr. Parvinder Kaur Lubana, shared their expertise, reinforcing the commitment to enhancing veterinary practices in Punjab.