SKUAST-K, Sheep Husbandry Deptt hold awareness camps

Baramulla, Aug 5: The Division of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, SKUAST-Kashmir, in collaboration with the Department of Sheep Husbandry Kashmir, organised an awareness and farmer–scientist interaction camp in remote areas of Baramulla on August 2, 2025.

The outreach event, supported by the ICAR-sponsored Network Project on Animal Genetic Resources, aimed to promote scientific and sustainable livestock rearing among local sheep breeders in border areas. A team of scientists from SKUAST-K, led by Prof. Syed Shanaz (Head, Division of AGB), along with Dr Ruksana and other experts, conducted the camp. Director Sheep Husbandry Kashmir, Dr Rafiq Ahmed, along with DSHO Dr Showkat Ahangar, SDO Dr Umar, and VAS Tanvir, also participated in the programme.

During the interaction, sheep breeders were sensitised on the importance of conserving native germplasm and adopting scientific practices in livestock management.

Participants were also briefed about various government schemes under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), National Livestock Mission (NLM), and Integrated Sheep Development Scheme (ISDS), and encouraged to explore startup opportunities in the sector.

The camp also included free distribution of quality veterinary medicines by the Sheep Husbandry Department and supply of nutritionally enriched feed, developed by SKUAST-K’s AGB Division, to beneficiaries, including women livestock rearers.