Srinagar, Oct 31 (TOK):
Central Veterinary Hospital Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday laid the foundation stone of the Central Veterinary Hospital at Athwajan, Srinagar. The project, with an estimated cost of ₹11.91 crore, represents a major step toward strengthening the veterinary infrastructure in the Union Territory.
The hospital, being developed by the Public Works (R&B) Department, will act as a central facility for veterinary treatment, advanced diagnostics, animal welfare, and research. Once completed, it will cater to the growing demands of livestock owners, dairy farmers, and veterinary professionals across the Kashmir Valley.
A Modern Facility for Animal Care
The upcoming Central Veterinary Hospital is envisioned as one of the most advanced animal care facilities in the region. It will be equipped with:
- Modern diagnostic laboratories for animal disease detection.
- Emergency and intensive care units for livestock.
- Dedicated surgical wards and treatment centers.
- Training and research wings for veterinary students and professionals.
- Facilities for animal vaccination and preventive healthcare programs.
Officials said that once operational, the hospital will provide comprehensive veterinary services under one roof, making it a landmark development for animal healthcare in Jammu and Kashmir.
CM Omar Abdullah: Strengthening Rural Livelihoods
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah highlighted that the project reflects the government’s commitment to supporting farmers, livestock owners, and dairy entrepreneurs.
“This hospital will transform animal healthcare in Kashmir,” the Chief Minister said. “It will not only help livestock farmers but also promote self-reliance in agriculture and the dairy sector. Our goal is to make Jammu and Kashmir a model state for rural development.”
Omar Abdullah was joined by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Lal Chowk Ahsan Pardesi, and senior officials from the Agriculture Production and Animal Husbandry Departments.
Why the Project Matters for Jammu & Kashmir
Animal husbandry and dairy farming play a vital role in the economy of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in rural areas where thousands of families rely on livestock for income.
According to government data:
- Nearly 70% of rural households in J&K depend on livestock rearing.
- The region produces over 25 lakh liters of milk daily, with increasing demand for quality dairy products.
- Livestock contributes nearly 10% to the Union Territory’s agricultural GDP.
Despite this, the sector has long suffered from a shortage of modern infrastructure, diagnostic centers, and trained veterinarians. The new hospital at Athwajan aims to bridge this gap and create a robust veterinary network.
Boosting Dairy and Rural Development
Officials said the hospital will play a key role in improving milk productivity, controlling livestock diseases, and promoting scientific breeding and nutrition practices.
It will also act as a training hub for veterinarians, field assistants, and para-veterinary staff, helping build a skilled workforce for the animal care sector. The hospital’s outreach programs will include mobile treatment units and awareness drives for farmers on animal health and hygiene.
“Our focus is not just on treatment but on prevention, capacity-building, and sustainable livestock management,” said a senior officer from the Animal Husbandry Department.
Research, Education, and Innovation
The Central Veterinary Hospital will also collaborate with institutions like the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K) to promote research and innovation in animal health.
It will facilitate:
- Research on zoonotic diseases (animal diseases that spread to humans).
- Studies on climate change impact on livestock health.
- Development of region-specific vaccines and preventive medicines.
- Internship and training programs for veterinary students.
Such initiatives are expected to elevate Jammu and Kashmir’s standing in veterinary research and animal science at the national level.
Part of a Wider Development Vision
The new veterinary hospital aligns with the broader vision of the J&K government to strengthen the agriculture and allied sectors. Over the past few years, the administration has launched several schemes to support rural communities, including:
- Integrated Dairy Development Scheme (IDDS) for small dairy units.
- Pashudhan Credit Card Scheme for livestock owners.
- Rural Infrastructure Development projects for veterinary dispensaries and mobile health units.
Together, these initiatives aim to make J&K self-sufficient in milk and animal products while improving rural incomes.
More From Kashmir
For related regional developments, visit:
Follow our WhatsApp Channel for instant updates — Join Now
Conclusion
The foundation of the ₹11.91 crore Central Veterinary Hospital in Srinagar marks a new era for Jammu and Kashmir’s livestock and dairy sectors. With its modern infrastructure, advanced research facilities, and skilled manpower, the hospital is set to become a pillar of animal healthcare and rural development in the region.
As J&K continues to invest in veterinary and agricultural infrastructure, the project at Athwajan stands as a symbol of progress — one that promises better animal care, improved livelihoods, and a stronger rural economy.
FAQs — Central Veterinary Hospital Srinagar
Q1. Where is the new Central Veterinary Hospital being built?
The hospital is being constructed at Athwajan in Srinagar.
Q2. What is the total cost of the project?
The estimated cost of the Central Veterinary Hospital is ₹11.91 crore.
Q3. Which department is executing the project?
The project is being implemented by the Public Works (R&B) Department.
Q4. Who laid the foundation stone of the hospital?
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah laid the foundation stone on October 31, 2025.
Q5. What are the key benefits of this hospital?
It will provide modern treatment, diagnostics, animal welfare services, training, and research facilities — greatly benefiting livestock farmers and veterinarians in Jammu and Kashmir.
Tags:
Omar Abdullah, Central Veterinary Hospital Srinagar, Animal Healthcare Jammu Kashmir, Dairy Development J&K, Veterinary Research Kashmir, Livestock Welfare, Srinagar Development News