President Murmu calls rise of women in veterinary science a ‘very auspicious sign’ at IVRI Bareilly

President Droupadi Murmu on Monday expressed pride at the growing number of women opting for a career in veterinary science and termed it a "very auspicious sign".

Speaking at the 11th convocation ceremony of the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) Bareilly, Murmu said even in the villages, it is the women of the household who look after the cattle.

"Today, seeing the large number of girl students among the medal winners, I feel proud that daughters, like other fields, are coming forward in the veterinary field as well. This is a very auspicious sign," Murmu said.

"Who is working in cattle sheds in the villages? It is the mothers and sisters because they are more attached to animals... This is why I like the involvement of daughters in this field," Murmu said.

Murmu arrived in Bareilly earlier in the day and was welcomed by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Governor Anandiben Patel.

Speaking on the occasion, Adityanath lauded the IVRI for its significant contribution during the Covid pandemic, stating that the institute played a crucial role by conducting over two lakh tests in the early stages of the crisis.

"When the threat of Covid emerged, testing posed a major challenge in the initial phase. At that time, IVRI came forward and functioned as a nodal centre, supporting the Uttar Pradesh government in testing efforts." He added, "IVRI not only worked for animals and birds, but also made a vital contribution in saving human lives by conducting over two lakh Covid tests." Congratulating the graduating students, Adityanath emphasised the importance of resilience during times of crisis.

The chief minister said the IVRI's research and services have not only benefitted the livestock sector in Uttar Pradesh, but have also given a new life to various species.

Sharing an incident related to the development of a vaccine for lumpy skin disease in cattle, Adityanath said the vaccine developed by IVRI was initially delayed due to a lack of government clearance.

However, after he reached out to Union Minister Parshottam Rupala, the necessary approval was granted.

"The vaccine was administered to the affected cattle and yielded miraculous results - the disease was completely eradicated," he said.

The chief minister reaffirmed the state's commitment to promoting veterinary research and its applications for the welfare of all living beings.