26/05/2026
In the large interest of public health ahead of the festival of Eid ul Azha, Department of Sheep Husbandry conducted extensive inspection & monitoring of sheep mandis across all districts during last 05 days. The departmental monitoring teams had an on-ground assessment and health check up of sacrificial animals being sold at major sale points (mandis). This gains importance in light of the fact that a large number of animals from within and outside UT converge at major sale points which raises risks of spread of communicable diseases.
Out of an estimated 2.30 lac animals (sheep & goats) which are available for sacrificial purposes across valley at more than 130 major mandis, the teams reached out and took assessment of most of the sale points and sheep flocks covering more than 1.50 lac sheep and goats were checked. Out of the examined animals, though more than 60% of the flocks were of locally produced animals, more attention was given to the animals transported recently from outside the UT to find out their health status.
The animals were generally found healthy and free from any signs of illness except some isolated cases of sickness where on spot treatment was provided and removal of such animals from the sale points was ensured. The owners were also advised to provide adequate drinking water & not to overfeed the sacrificial animals. This exercise, besides providing veterinary health care guidance to livestock owners, was essential to ensure deliverance of wholesome meat to the consumers.
