The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying has unveiled the ‘A-HELP’ (Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of Livestock Production) program in the state of Jharkhand on 10th October, 2023. The program launch event was graced by the Minister of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry & Co-operative, Government of Jharkhand, who served as the chief guest.
The inaugural ceremony took place in the presence of key dignitaries, including Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India; Secretary, Department of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry & Co-operative, Government of Jharkhand; and Senior General Manager, National Dairy Development Board.
Minister of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry & Co-operative, Government of Jharkhand underscored the pivotal role that women play in the overall development of the state’s livestock sector. He elaborated on the significance of the ‘A-HELP’ program, emphasizing its goal of empowering women by involving them as Accredited Agents. These agents will make substantial contributions to disease control, animal tagging, and livestock insurance. The program is set to enhance access to veterinary services, bringing them to the farmer’s doorstep and empowering Pashu Sakhis, thereby promoting women’s participation and socio-economic progress.
Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India, highlighted the essential roles played by livestock and women in the comprehensive development of the livestock sector. She congratulated the state government for its growing livestock sector and underscored the importance of the Accredited Agents for Health and Extension of Livestock Production (A-HELP) in bridging the gap between local veterinary institutions and livestock owners. These agents will serve as Livestock Resource Persons and Primary Service Providers, offering primary health services.
The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) has initiated the innovative ‘A-HELP’ initiative in several states and union territories, including Bihar, Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and now Jharkhand. The program has been launched through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between DAHD and the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) under the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India.
During the launch event, A-HELP Kits were distributed to Pashu Sakhis, and the event witnessed substantial participation, with over 500 attendees, including progressive farmers and Pashu Sakhis.
