The Jammu and Kashmir Veterinary Doctors Association, Jammu, today organized a one-day technical conference at the Convention Centre, Jammu, on the theme “Veterinarians: Guardians of Food and Health.”
Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar was the chief guest on the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister lauded the indispensable role of veterinarians in safeguarding the animal and public health. He highlighted that veterinary professionals render critical services across diverse domains including field operations, farms, clinics, laboratories and aquaculture, thereby ensuring livestock well-being and strengthening food safety systems.
Emphasizing the sector’s economic significance, the Minister stated that healthy and productive livestock are key towards enhancing food production, increasing farmers’ income, generating employment and fostering sustainable economic growth. He underlined that a robust and well-equipped veterinary network is vital for strengthening the rural livelihoods and building resilience within the agricultural ecosystem.
Javid Dar further stated that under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the government is consistently formulating policies aimed at the growth and development of the rural economy, with a strong focus on the livestock sector.
The Minister assured that the issues and demands raised by various speakers during the conference would be addressed on a priority basis.
Earlier, the Minister inspected exhibition stalls set up at the venue and interacted with the veterinary doctors and other stakeholders, appreciating their contributions and innovations in the field.
The conference witnessed participation from veterinary experts, professionals and stakeholders, who deliberated on the emerging challenges and explored innovative solutions in the livestock sector, reaffirming the pivotal role of veterinarians as true guardians of food and health.