Veterinary research must benefit common people and farmers: CM

Thrissur Veterinary research must move beyond academic institutions and translate into tangible benefits for ordinary people and farmers, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan said on Saturday (November 14). Inaugurating the 18th Kerala Veterinary Science Congress and national seminar organised by the Indian Veterinary Association (IVA), Keralam, at the College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, he said the government will extend full support to establish mechanisms to ensure that research findings reached the grassroots.

Pointing to the mounting challenges faced by farmers owing to declining agricultural production and falling prices, Mr. Satheesan said livestock rearing had emerged as a major source of livelihood for farmers, particularly in the Western Ghats region. “No farmer can sustain a livelihood by depending on agriculture alone under the present circumstances,” he said, assuring increased government support for the animal husbandry sector.

The allocation for the sector would be enhanced from the next Budget, he announced.