Patna: In a groundbreaking move to enhance animal healthcare, the Bihar State Government has launched an initiative that allows livestock owners to access veterinary services right at their doorstep. With a simple phone call to the toll-free number 1962, farmers and animal owners can now request a veterinarian to visit their homes and provide timely medical care to their animals.
Mobile Veterinary Units: Revolutionizing Animal Care in Bihar
The state government, through its Animal and Fisheries Resources Department, has deployed 58 ambulatory vans and 534 mobile veterinary units across Bihar, enabling veterinary services to reach even the most remote villages. These mobile units are GPS-enabled, ensuring that animals in need of care receive prompt and efficient treatment. The units are equipped to provide various essential services including:
- Minor surgeries (on-site, as needed)
- Artificial insemination
- Essential medications
- Pathological tests
- Routine health check-ups
This initiative ensures that veterinary care is no longer restricted to urban areas but is accessible across the state, including rural and remote regions where veterinary services were once scarce.
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Significant Milestone: Over 4.5 Million Animals Treated
Bihar has achieved impressive results under this initiative. In the 2024-2025 fiscal year, 45.7 lakh animals were treated, which includes:
- 1.54 lakh animals castrated
- 27,262 pathological samples examined
- 36.9 lakh animals inseminated artificially
These efforts highlight the success of the state’s veterinary care expansion and underline its commitment to improving the health and productivity of livestock in Bihar.
The Toll-Free Number 1962: Easy Access to Care
The introduction of the toll-free number 1962 has made it easier for livestock owners to access veterinary services. By calling this number, farmers can request a visit from a qualified veterinarian at their homes. This service is especially beneficial for those living in far-flung areas who previously struggled to find nearby veterinary clinics or hospitals.
Expanding the Veterinary Infrastructure
Before 2005, veterinary services in Bihar were limited, and there was a severe shortage of medical professionals in rural areas. The State Government’s Animal and Fisheries Resources Department has since made rapid strides in bridging this gap. Veterinary hospitals have been established in all district headquarters, offering 24×7 medical services, ensuring that animal owners can access care at any time.
Success of the Veterinary Camps
The mobile veterinary units have also conducted over 3,167 veterinary camps across Bihar. These camps treated 4.18 lakh animals and performed various medical and diagnostic services. The outreach of these services has proven to be a game-changer for farmers, ensuring that their livestock remain healthy and productive.
A Better Future for Bihar’s Livestock
The government’s initiative has not only provided medical care to millions of animals but has also fostered better livestock management practices, leading to healthier herds and improved agricultural productivity. The scheme aligns with Bihar’s broader efforts to ensure the well-being of its farming community and boost the state’s agricultural output.
