Training Programme Empowers Rural Women as Livestock Health Workers in Tripura

The Animal Resources Development (ARD) Department of Tripura has successfully concluded its inaugural training programme for 'Pashu Sakhis' (Animal Friends), marking a significant step toward improving livestock healthcare in rural areas. The first batch of 25 Pashu Sakhis received their certification after completing an intensive 17-day training course, with ARD Director Neeraj Kumar Chanchal presiding over the certification ceremony.

The Pashu Sakhi initiative, modeled after the successful ASHA workers programme in human healthcare, aims to create a robust network of trained community animal health workers across Tripura. The state government plans to train between 1,000 to 1,500 Pashu Sakhis over the next year, significantly expanding the reach of livestock healthcare services in rural communities.

These trained women will serve as crucial intermediaries between livestock owners and veterinary services, focusing on several key areas. Their responsibilities will include monitoring animal health, promoting vaccination awareness, and facilitating Live Stock Insurance camps. This comprehensive approach ensures better prevention and early detection of livestock diseases while improving access to insurance coverage for farmers.

Recognizing the importance of sustainable compensation, the government has implemented a revised honorarium structure for Pashu Sakhis. Notable among these changes is the increase in vaccination fees from ₹5 to ₹8 per animal, providing better financial incentives for their services. This enhancement in remuneration reflects the government's commitment to making the programme sustainable and attractive for participants.

The graduation ceremony was attended by key officials, including TRLM CEO Ajit Shukla Das and ARD Additional Director Dr. Bimal Krishna Das, demonstrating the high-level administrative support for this initiative. Their presence underscores the programme's significance in the state's rural development strategy.

This initiative represents a significant step toward improving animal welfare and enhancing livestock productivity in Tripura. By creating a cadre of trained community animal health workers, the programme promises to bridge the gap between veterinary services and rural communities, ultimately contributing to better livestock management and rural economic development.