Deepak Aggarwal, Co-Founder, Moneyboxx highlights that veterinary services in India is inaccessible in many parts of the country and awareness is low, which often leave the cattle at risk of infections and the recent example is the outbreak of lumpy skin disease in many parts of India
India’s dairy sector is one of the most crucial industries. A majority of the population lives in rural areas and relies on dairy business for livelihood. In addition, vast majority of farmers depend on animal husbandry to support their living during unwanted events such as crop failure, drought, rainfall etc. When it comes to nourishment, milk is one of the major foods which is helping many, especially the underprivileged, in meeting their nutritional requirements. Also, milk production is a key contributor to the Indian economy. Dairy is the single largest agricultural commodity, contributing 5 per cent of the national economy and employing more than 8 crore farmers directly, with the majority being small and marginal farmers and women.
Despite such importance, the dairy industry is battling severe challenges. While India is world’s largest milk producer with 23 per cent contribution to global milk production, average annual productivity of cattle in India at 1777 kg per animal in 2019-20 is 34 per cent lower than global average of 2699 kg. As per Food and Agricultural Organisation of the United Nations, animals in developing countries often have lower milk yields and shorter lactations on account of factors such as climate (high ambient temperature, humidity), low-quality feed, low levels of concentrate supplementation, low genetic potential for milk production, and high incidence of disease and lack of adequate veterinary services.
According to a Lancet study, increasing temperatures could reduce milk production by 25 per cent by 2085 in India’s arid to semi-arid areas. Additionally, lack of veterinary services and cattle management especially in rural areas is leading to spread of diseases like Lumpy Skin Disease, putting this important sector at risk. Also, lack of awareness and misinformation prevent cattle owners from seeking timely treatment which exposes the animals to vulnerabilities of various diseases and reduced milk production.
The rising challenges make it imperative to make veterinary services available and accessible for all, free of cost. Proper medical care and expert guidance can not only prevent cattle from diseases but also improve milk production, give financial benefits, and contribute to rural empowerment. There are many stories which tell how free vet services have greatly benefitted them in their lives. For instance, Sanjay, a resident of Ujjain owned 13 cattle. He noticed 4 of his cattle were showing signs of pregnancy. However, high medical costs prevented him from getting their pregnancy tests done from a qualified veterinarian. He required Rs 500 per test but could not muster up the courage for many days owing to the financial burden. The borrower discussed the issue and got the pregnancy tests done through the free veterinary care services offered by the company. With the tests, he found that 3 of his 4 cattle were pregnant and the early diagnosis helped him in shortening the calving interval through timely interval and rebreeding of the non-pregnant animal. The free vet services not only saved his money but also benefited him with regular consultations from doctors on effective cattle management. His story is a notable example that shows how free preventive care can empower dairy farmers and better cattle health in rural India.
It is noteworthy that veterinary services in India, despite such importance, is inaccessible in many parts of the country and awareness is low, which often leave the cattle at risk of infections and the recent example is the outbreak of lumpy skin disease in many parts of India. This not only resulted in an excessive amount of mortalities but inflicted financial burden on the cattle owners and led to reduction in milk production. Lack of immunisation and improper care caused great financial losses to cattle owners who depended on cows for their livelihood. There is also a need for 24×7 expert support in rural areas to effectively manage the infections and reduce the risks.
Improved veterinary services can not only ensure good cattle health but also lead to financial empowerment of rural India.