Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 10:The Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS), Car Nicobar, successfully concluded a high-impact Animal Welfare Fortnight 2026 with a series of innovative and community-driven programs that blended cultural tradition, scientific veterinary practices, and conservation efforts.
In a landmark first for the island, the department organised a grand Mattu Pongal celebration on January 15, 2026, at the Departmental Dairy Unit in Perka. The ceremony honoured cattle for their vital contribution to agriculture and rural life and was graced by chief guest Shri Rahul L Nair, IPS, guest of honour Dr. Naveen and Shri Paul, 1st Captain of Perka Village. The event brought together officials from the Agriculture Department, KVK, Fisheries, and Forest Department, symbolizing strong inter-departmental collaboration for livestock welfare.
On January 24, 2026, the focus shifted to Biglapthy village, where the department conducted a targeted training session for local dairy farmers on the dangers and misuse of Oxytocin injections in dairy animals, highlighting health risks to cattle and milk consumers. Simultaneously, a comprehensive house-to-house deworming camp was carried out across Biglapthy, delivering essential veterinary services directly to farmers’ doorsteps and ensuring complete coverage for the village’s livestock population.
The fortnight concluded on a strong conservation note on January 30, 2026, with a massive joint plantation drive of fruit-bearing trees along the departmental farm, organised in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Forest. This initiative aims to provide a permanent food source for the island’s avian population, promoting sustainable co-existence between dairy operations and local biodiversity.
