Wagoora, April 27: The Sheep Husbandry Department Baramulla today celebrated World Veterinary Day at the VAS Headquarters Shrakwara, marking the culmination of a week-long series of activities that commenced on Saturday.
The event was graced by Dr. Showkat Ahangar, District Sheep Husbandry Officer (DSHO) Baramulla, and attended by block heads from all sheep blocks across the district, nominated members of the paraveterinary staff, and officials from the District Sheep Husbandry Office.
The day’s proceedings began with a customary plantation drive in the lawns of VAS Shrakwara, symbolizing a commitment to environmental stewardship. Dr. Ishfaq Dhobi, Veterinary Assistant Surgeon (VAS) Shrakwara, warmly welcomed the participants.
The program was presided over by Dr. Showkat Ahangar and honoured by the presence of Dr. Umar Yousuf, SDO Uri. Discussions revolved around this year’s theme, “Animal Health Takes a Team,” emphasizing the collaborative nature of veterinary health services.
Prominent speakers, including Dr. Muneer Ah Dar, Dr. Irfan Margay, Dr. Saima, Dr. Junaid, and Mr. Adil, highlighted the integral link between animal health and human health. They stressed that veterinarians, paravets, scientists, and farmers collectively form a critical team whose efforts ultimately safeguard public health.
Dr. Umar Yousuf, in his address, underscored the importance of public health, hygiene, and the need for special precautions to prevent zoonotic diseases among those working closely with animals.
In his special address, Dr. Showkat Ahangar urged participants to think innovatively and adopt modern techniques to bring meaningful improvements in animal health, which in turn benefits society as a whole. He emphasized the need for proactive initiatives to drive positive change.
The program also featured documentaries that highlighted the challenging working conditions faced by veterinary teams in the highlands, as well as a video presentation showcasing the state-of-the-art facilities now available within the district.
Participants hailed the pioneering initiatives of the DSHO Baramulla, appreciating the department’s first-ever organized celebration of World Veterinary Day. The program concluded with the felicitation of veterinarians, paravets, and officials for their outstanding and inspiring contributions.
Dr. Ishfaq Dhobi, in his closing remarks, emphasized the importance of recognizing every team member as an equal human being in order to truly embody the spirit of teamwork that the theme advocates.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Irfan, followed by a luncheon for all attendees.