In Himachal animal census, a separate column added for this native cattle breed

MANDI: For the first time in Himachal Pradesh, a separate census is being conducted to count Pahadi cows. Previously, the state never carried out a specific count for these cows, leaving the government without any data on their numbers.

This time, however, the 21st Animal Census has introduced a special provision for their enumeration. The census, which began on September 1, 2023, will continue until December 31, 2023.

Previous census only covered two breeds

In earlier animal census, only two breeds of cows were recorded: indigenous and foreign. However, this time around, the focus has shifted to collecting data on Pahadi cows specifically. This move is intended to provide accurate numbers of the cows across the state and ensure that the government can create targeted policies for their protection and development.

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Other animals also being counted

In addition to hill cows, other animals, such as buffaloes, sheep, goats and dogs, are also being counted in the census. Even stray animals and dogs are being included to gather comprehensive data on their population.

According to Dr Atul Puri, Deputy Director of the Animal Husbandry Department in Mandi district, priority is being given to breed-specific enumeration this year, ensuring that each breed’s data is separately maintained.

Hill cows to benefit from future govt schemes

The separate counting of hill cows is expected to provide crucial data that will help the government formulate special schemes and programmes for this specific breed. Dr Puri emphasised that this is the first time Pahadi cows have been classified as a distinct breed in the census, and this data will guide future planning and support measures for these animals.

Local breeds also getting attention

Apart from Pahadi cows, local breeds of other animals are also receiving attention. The current census includes a special provision to prepare separate data for these local breeds. This approach will ensure that indigenous species across the state are properly documented and supported.

GPS-tracking to ensure accuracy

This year’s census is GPS-based, ensuring transparency and accuracy in the data collection process. Each team conducting the survey is being tracked via GPS to confirm that the census is being carried out on the ground. Dr Puri mentioned that this method leaves no room for doubt about the accuracy of the numbers being gathered.

The Animal Husbandry Department has deployed 65 supervisors and 522 pharmacists across the district to conduct the census. These teams are going door-to-door to ensure thorough coverage of the state’s animal population. The entire process is set to be completed by December 31, 2023. This large-scale operation aims to provide precise figures, enabling future development initiatives for both livestock and stray animals across Himachal Pradesh.