The two-day Pashu Palan Mela organized by Guru Angad Dev Veterinary & Animal Sciences University in Ludhiana concluded on a high note, emphasizing homemade remedies for livestock diseases. Drawing a large crowd, the event aimed to advance livestock professions through scientific approaches.
Dr. Sukhpal Singh, Chairman of the Punjab State Farmers and Farmer Workers Commission, graced the event as the chief guest on the second day. Dr. Singh discussed new agricultural policies geared towards improving farming communities. He expressed optimism about the forthcoming agriculture policy, emphasizing the role of cooperative societies in providing multifunctional services to farmers. Dr. Singh lauded the handholding assistance provided by the veterinary university, acknowledging its significant impact on farmers.
Dr. Inderjeet Singh, Vice-Chancellor of the university, shed light on prevalent livestock diseases, urging farmers to prioritize herd vaccinations and acquire comprehensive knowledge and training in livestock professions. Dr. Parkash Singh Brar, Director of Extension Education, underscored the diverse services offered by various university departments, ranging from livestock rearing to value-added product development. He encouraged women to actively participate in these professions, emphasizing their compatibility with household responsibilities.
The event featured an array of value-added products from the College of Dairy Science and Technology and the Department of Livestock Products and Technology, including flavored milk, cheese, meat pickles, and ornamental fish. Attendees showed keen interest in learning about the production processes and expressed enthusiasm for training opportunities to enhance milk and meat product development.
Experts addressed common livestock diseases such as mastitis, mineral disorders, and foot lameness, offering insights into their prevention and management. The College of Fisheries showcased various fish varieties, sparking interest among attendees.
Farmers took the opportunity to enrich their knowledge by purchasing university publications and registering for monthly magazines. Dignitaries released informative books on dairy farming and goat rearing practices, while also launching initiatives to promote fish consumption and introduce innovative products like flavored milk.
The university's judgment committee recognized outstanding contributions in both industry and university categories. Spanco Agri Implements secured first place in the industry category, followed by Vesper Pharmaceuticals and Provalis India Pvt. Ltd. In the university category, the Department of Livestock Production & Management clinched the top spot, with the College of Dairy Science and Technology and the College of Animal Biotechnology and Animal Disease Research Centre securing second and third place, respectively.
Dr. Inderjeet Singh extended gratitude to Dr. Sukhpal Singh, Dr. Parvender Sheoran, S. Kuldip Singh Jassowal, Dr. Kewal Arora, and the team of the Ishmeet Singh Music Institute for their invaluable contributions to the event.
The Pashu Palan Mela served as a platform for knowledge exchange, showcasing innovations, and honoring excellence in the field of livestock management, leaving attendees inspired and equipped with new insights to enhance their agricultural practices.
