PCM demands implementation of combined FMD vaccine throughout the Nation

Pashu Sandesh, 22 December 2018

In a major push for the adoption of combined FMD vaccine through out the country, the Pashu Chikitsak Mahasangh (PCM) an apex national body of the Veterinarians met and submitted a memorandum to the MoS for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Krishna Raj on 17th December. The delegation of Vets comprising Office bearers of various State Veterinary associations led by PCM president Dr Chirantan Kadian met the Minister at Anand Gujarat where she had come to participate in a Workshop organised by NDDB. 

Dr Kadian appraised the Minister regarding the work done by PCM. He also thanked the Minister for starting a pilot project on combined FMD vaccination in Haryana following an earlier demand by the PCM. PCM members while interacting with the Minister reiterated the fact that the combined FMD vaccination will not only benefit Vets but would also save the nation lots of money and manpower as in the present scenario Vets are busy through out the year administering vaccination which has a scheduled cycle of four times in a year. The combined vaccine will have to be administered once or twice in a year and Vets can then pert their energy toward better Animal Husbandry Medical services.

PCM also demanded the establishment of a separate Indian Council for Veterinary Research (ICVR) which is presently working under Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR). As per the PCM, establishment of a separate council will facilitate the research in the Veterinary Science and the Animal Husbandry at large. Some members also put forward the suggestion that there should be a separate ministry for Animal Husbandry and Veterinary sciences. 

Dr Kadian raised the issue of poor functioning of the Veterinary Council of India (VCI) and the urgent need for revamp of the same as a near non functional VCI is hurting the interests of Vets at the national level. PCM President also requested the Minister to include members of PCM in the important committees whenever they are formed to formulate National policies pertaining to Animal Husbandry and Veterinary services since PCM is the only vibrant body of the Vets of the India at the moment.

Minister Krishna Raj had given a patient hearing to the demands raised by delegates of PCM and thanked Dr Chirantan Kadian for bringing out the concerns of the Vets which are of National importance. She also lauded the efforts of Dr Chirantan Kadian for leading the PCM with purpose and fervour.