The Department of Sheep Husbandry organised a one-day Breeder Awareness Camp under the National Livestock Mission (NLM) at Chushul on July 1 to create awareness about government initiatives aimed at strengthening the livestock sector and improving the livelihoods of breeders.

The programme witnessed the participation of a large number of livestock breeders and was attended by the Goba of Chushul along with senior officers of the department.

Dr. Nasreen Fatima, Block Officer, Durbuk, presented the livestock profile of Chushul and briefed breeders on various components of the National Livestock Mission, including entrepreneurship development, breed improvement and extension services.

Assistant Director, PGF Khuril, Dr. Mohd Sadiq, encouraged breeders to adopt value addition and diversify livestock-based enterprises to enhance their income.

District Sheep Husbandry Officer, Dr. Tsewang Morup, emphasised disease prevention, particularly the eradication of Contagious Caprine Pleuropneumonia (CCPP), and advocated integrated farming practices for sustainable livestock development.

Director, Sheep Husbandry Department, Dr. Iftikhar Hussain, highlighted the immense economic potential of Pashmina and urged breeders to actively participate in departmental programmes and strengthen the Pashmina Cooperative Society for the overall development of the sector.

During the programme, the Goba of Chushul submitted a memorandum highlighting the demands and concerns of the local breeding community. The Director assured participants that the department would take timely and appropriate steps to address the issues raised.

To support nomadic herders, the department distributed portable tents, protective boots and milk churning machines as part of its ongoing efforts to improve field-level livestock management and strengthen pastoral livelihoods.