Positive Steps to Grant Agricultural Status to Animal Husbandry Sector: Deputy CM Ajit Pawar

Inauguration of Biosafety Labs, National Reference Vaccine Testing Laboratory, and Super Specialty Veterinary Hospital in Pune

Pune : Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Pune District Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar stated that the government is actively considering granting the animal husbandry sector the status of agriculture. This would ensure that livestock farmers receive the same infrastructure and subsidies as those in agriculture.

He was speaking at the inauguration of a Super Specialty Veterinary Hospital, BSL-2 and BSL-3 biosafety labs, and the National Reference Vaccine Testing and Quality Control Laboratory at Aundh. Also present were Animal Husbandry Minister Pankaja Munde, Maharashtra Goseva Commission Chairman Shekhar Mundada, MLA Uma Khapre, and senior officials from the department.

Pawar expressed confidence that the new labs and hospital facilities, built at a cost of ₹86 crore, will significantly improve animal health and boost income for livestock farmers. He emphasized that Maharashtra has outpaced other states in providing organized veterinary infrastructure and assured there will be no funding shortages for animal husbandry schemes.

He noted that while Maharashtra leads in various livestock initiatives, it still ranks sixth or seventh in egg and poultry production. To improve this, more support and incentives are needed. He also stressed the importance of AI-based technologies and research in vaccine development, especially as zoonotic diseases continue to rise.

Pawar praised the department’s transparent transfer process and the receipt of its first GMP certification. He also reaffirmed the state’s commitment to a plastic ban due to its adverse effects on livestock and children’s health through contaminated milk.

Counselling-Based Transfers Improve Morale: Munde

Minister Pankaja Munde noted that 560 officer transfers were recently conducted through counselling, with 99% of officers getting their preferred locations. She encouraged officials to work diligently for the welfare of livestock owners.

She reiterated the need to grant agriculture-like benefits to livestock farmers and voiced concern about cows consuming plastic, leading to health issues in children. Munde also mentioned plans to strengthen laws against milk adulteration and expressed satisfaction with the department ranking first in the 100-day performance review.

Dr. Ramaswamy N., Secretary of the Department, said the newly inaugurated labs will benefit the western region of India, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, Diu, and Daman. With GMP certification, vaccines produced here will gain national recognition. He added that more advanced equipment would be added to the hospital as additional funds are secured.

Dignitaries toured the new facilities after the inauguration and unveiled the GMP certification plaque awarded to the department.