30 Veterinary Officers from Kangra, Chamba and Mandi Trained to Enhance Animal
Health and Productivity
Palampur, October 25,
2026: Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi
Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur, successfully concluded two three-day refresher courses for State
Veterinary Officers on “Capacity Building of Field Veterinarians for Better Animal Health
and Productivity in Himachal Pradesh.” The courses were organised by the Department of
Veterinary Pathology, Dr. G.C. Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (in two
batches from October 7 to 9 and October 22 to 24, 2026.
The programmes were conducted under the ICAR-National Research Centre on
Equines (ICAR-NRCE), Hisar-funded project entitled “Enhancement of Socioeconomic
Status of Scheduled Caste (SC) Communities in the Kangra, Chamba and Mandi Districts of
Himachal Pradesh through Scientific Advancements in Livestock Practices, Focusing on
Equine Population.” A total of 30 veterinary officers from Kangra, Chamba and Mandi
districts participated in the two refresher courses.
During the closing ceremony held on October 24, 2026, Dr. Vinod Sharma, Director
of Research graced the occasion as Chief Guest. He appreciated the efforts of the Department
of Veterinary Pathology in organising the refresher courses and emphasised the importance of
continuous learning to update the knowledge and skills of field veterinarians. He highlighted
the vital role of livestock in improving rural livelihoods, strengthening the rural economy and
promoting the socio-economic upliftment of economically weaker farming communities.
Prof. Pankaj Sood, Deanof the college, Guest of Honour, appreciated the initiative and
encouraged participating veterinarians to adopt the latest diagnostic approaches and scientific
advancements in their routine field practices. He emphasised that regular capacity-building
initiatives are essential for improving diagnostic accuracy, strengthening disease prevention
strategies and ensuring timely intervention in livestock disease management.
Dr. R.D. Patil, Head, Department of Veterinary Pathology and Course Director,
presented the project activities undertaken by the department for the benefit of equine farmers
in the state and highlighted the conduct of the refresher courses. Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Principal
Investigator of the project and Course Coordinator, and Dr. Sonali Mishra, Course Co-
coordinator, played key roles in organising and coordinating the refresher courses. The
successful completion of the two courses reflects the department’s continued commitment to
strengthening veterinary services, enhancing the professional competencies of field
veterinarians and improving animal health and productivity in Himachal Pradesh.
