Union Cabinet Approves ₹3,880 Crore Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the revision of the Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP) with an outlay of ₹3,880 crore for two years.

The scheme aims to enhance the animal health sector through comprehensive vaccination programs, capacity building, disease surveillance, and the strengthening of veterinary infrastructure.

Key Components of LHDCP

The revised LHDCP consists of three major components:

1. National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP)
2. Livestock Health & Disease Control (LH&DC)
3. Pashu Aushadhi – a newly added component focusing on affordable veterinary medicines.

The programme also includes three sub-components:

• Critical Animal Disease Control Programme (CADCP)
• Establishment and Strengthening of Existing Veterinary Hospitals and Dispensaries – Mobile Veterinary Unit (ESVHD-MVU)
• Assistance to States for Control of Animal Diseases (ASCAD)

Pashu Aushadhi: Enhancing Veterinary Medicine Access

A provision of ₹75 crore has been earmarked within the total scheme outlay to ensure access to quality and affordable generic veterinary medicines. These medicines will be distributed through PM-Kisan Samriddhi Kendras and Cooperative Societies, with incentives provided for their sale under the Pashu Aushadhi component.

How LHDCP Will Improve Livestock Health?

According to a government press release, livestock productivity is significantly impacted by diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), Brucellosis, Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF), and Lumpy Skin Disease. By implementing systematic vaccination programs, LHDCP aims to curb these diseases and prevent economic losses for farmers.

The scheme supports doorstep livestock healthcare services through Mobile Veterinary Units (ESVHD-MVU) and enhances access to veterinary medicines via Pashu Aushadhi. It will also focus on disease prevention through surveillance and healthcare infrastructure upgrades.

Conclusion

The implementation of LHDCP is expected to improve livestock productivity, generate employment, and encourage entrepreneurship in rural areas. By reducing disease-related losses, the programme will contribute to strengthening the rural economy and supporting farmers dependent on livestock for their livelihood.

With the government’s strong focus on improving livestock health and disease control, the revised LHDCP is set to play a crucial role in ensuring sustainable animal husbandry practices across the country.

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