Sri Vijaya Puram, June 18: In a landmark initiative for tribal livelihood development, the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS), Andaman & Nicobar Administration, on 18TH june distributed 50 goats to each family of the Great Andamanese tribe residing in Strait Island under the 100% subsidy scheme.
This is the first time the Department has launched and implemented such a comprehensive subsidy-based goat distribution programme for the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG). The goats were handed over to the Tribal Welfare Department at the Livestock Farm Complex, Dollygunj, for onward distribution to the tribal families.
The initiative aims to strengthen livelihood opportunities, improve nutritional security, and promote goat rearing as a sustainable and profitable activity among the tribal communities. Goats are well-suited to the local climatic conditions, require relatively low maintenance, and provide a reliable source of income through milk, meat, and sale of kids.
The Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services has been actively working towards the socio-economic empowerment of tribal communities through various livestock and poultry development programmes. This 100% subsidy scheme for goat distribution is a significant step in that direction.
The Tribal Welfare Department will ensure timely distribution of the goats to the eligible PVTG beneficiary families of Strait Island. The AH&VS has assured continuous technical guidance, veterinary support, and follow-up to ensure successful rearing of these animals.
The Department remains committed to expanding such livelihood interventions and supporting the overall development of tribal communities across the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
