In a significant move to enhance livestock health and promote rural development, the Minister of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services Department, Puran Kr. Gurung, launched the ‘A-HELP’ (Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of Livestock Production) program at Chintan Bhawan in Gangtok, Sikkim on July 30, 2024. The event was graced by the presence of Kala Rai, Advisor to the Rural Development Department, who attended as the special guest.
During his address, Minister Gurung highlighted that the A-HELP program will create a crucial link between livestock farmers and the Department. He highlighted that this initiative is a major step forward in promoting livestock health, providing extension services, and empowering women, which could lead to improved livestock productivity and overall rural development.
Alka Upadhayaya, Secretary of the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), addressed the gathering through a video message. She encouraged the A-HELP workers to actively support farmers and bridge the existing gaps in extension activities at the grassroots level.
Dr. Sharman Rai, Secretary of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, Sikkim, commenced the program with a welcome address. He outlined the roles of the A-HELP agents, which include disease control, animal tagging, and livestock insurance.
A-HELP is an innovative extension initiative by the DAHD, Government of India, leveraging the Self-Help Group (SHG) platform of the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) for animal husbandry activities. This program has already been successfully implemented in 12 states and union territories, including Bihar, Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Mizoram, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Kerala, and Assam.
During the event, specialized A-HELP Kits were distributed to Pashu Sakhis, who will undergo training and accreditation as A-HELP agents. The launch event saw participation from over 500 individuals, including progressive farmers and Pashu Sakhis, marking a promising start for this transformative initiative.
This program is expected to significantly contribute to the development of the livestock sector by ensuring that farmers receive the necessary support and services right at their doorstep.
