Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh reviewed the measures taken by the department towards achieving the goal of a Foot & Mouth Disease (FMD)-free India by 2030 through vaccination. Mr. Singh highlighted that the livestock sector is crucial not only for the Indian economy but also for the livelihoods of farmers.

 

During the meeting, an action plan for making India FMD-free by 2030 was discussed. It was reported that assessments have been conducted to create FMD-free zones in states including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Maharashtra, and Gujarat, based on sero-surveillance. These zones, where vaccination is already advanced, can be prioritized for declaration as FMD-free. This progress will facilitate opportunities for export.

 

Mr. Singh noted that the prevalence of animal diseases, particularly FMD, is a significant barrier to the growth of the livestock sector, causing estimated economic losses of around 24,000 crore rupees per year. He emphasized that controlling and eradicating this disease would boost milk production, enhance farmers’ livelihoods, and increase their income.

 

Mr. Singh said it is also a point of pride that all animal vaccines are developed by ICAR institutions and produced domestically. Informing that India now has the capability to export vaccines to selected Asian countries, he added that moreover, the vaccination of pastoral sheep and goats against FMD has been extended nationwide. Vaccine supplies have begun, and Ladakh has already started vaccinating its flocks as part of the government’s 100-day action plan.

 

Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel was also present at the meeting.