Shillong, Aug 12: A one-day awareness programme on livestock and poultry farming and the Meghalaya State Livestock Mission, organized by the Office of the District Animal Husbandry and Veteriry Officer, East Khasi Hills district, in collaboration with the Office of the Block Development Officer, Sohiong C&RD Block, was held at Sohiong C&RD Block on Saturday.
Animal Husbandry & Veteriry (AH&V) Minister and local MLA HDR Lyngdoh graced the occasion as a chief guest. The programme was also attended by AH&V Director Dr B Rijal, East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner PS Dkhar, East Khasi Hills DRDA Project Director D Hynniewta, East Khasi Hills District AH & Veteriry Officer Dr (Mrs) A Pakyntein and Sohiong Block Development Officer MA Challam, besides a host of government officials and farmers and villagers.
While addressing the gathering, Lyngdoh said the farmers of the area are fortute to have such an awareness programme on livestock and poultry farming, which is very important to increase their livestock and poultry rearing, especially in this area where the environment is suitable for rearing of poultry. He also urged the farmers to go for large-scale farming so as to earn higher profit margins.
He said State Livestock Mission launched by Chief Minister Mukul Sangma recently aimed at creating livelihood opportunities for rural farmers and also provide employment opportunities through livestock and poultry rearing in their own backyards.
He also emphasized on the ready availability of market for livestock products as the State depends largely on other States for supply of raw meat and poultry products
The iugural session was followed by a technical session by Dr RK Marbaniang and Dr (Ms) I Warjri, both AH&V officers, on the topics “Impact of Livestock and Poultry Farming on Rural Livelihoods” and “Common Diseases Affecting Livestock and Poultry and their Zoonotic Importance”.