National Dairy Development Board, in collaboration with West Assam Milk Producers’ Cooperative Union Ltd., organised a farmer awareness programme in Nagaon, Assam under the Dairy Integrated Safety and Health Action (DISHA) Project to promote responsible livestock healthcare and tackle the growing challenge of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).
The programme focused on spreading awareness among dairy farmers about the dangers of indiscriminate antibiotic use, zoonotic diseases, farm hygiene and sustainable animal healthcare practices. Special emphasis was placed on the use of scientifically validated Ethnoveterinary Medicine (EVM) as a natural and preventive alternative to excessive antibiotic usage in livestock.
A total of 112 participants, including veterinary professionals and six veterinarians from Purabi Dairy, attended the programme.
Technical sessions were conducted by Dr. Pankaj Dutta, Senior Manager (Animal Husbandry), NDDB, who highlighted the importance of the “One Health” approach linking animal, human and environmental health.
Interactive discussions encouraged farmers to use antibiotics judiciously, complete prescribed doses and consult veterinarians before treatment, while also promoting preventive healthcare practices at the community level.