September 13, 2023

Uttar Pradesh, India chief minister instructs officials to expeditiously stop LSD spread

The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, India, Yogi Adityanath, has directed officials on September 9 to work urgently to halt the spread of lumpy skin disease (LSD) among cattle in the state.

He suggested a ban on interstate animal transport and urged dairy farmers to be provided with complete information about the symptoms and treatment of the infection. He also recommended prohibiting the entry of unnecessary people into cow shelters.

"It is necessary to launch a special vaccination campaign to protect cattle from the lumpy virus," Adityanath said. "Since the virus spreads through mosquitoes, special cleanliness campaigns should be conducted in villages and cities, in coordination with the departments of rural development, urban development and animal husbandry.

"Under no circumstances should the infection be allowed to spread."

He instructed officials to arrange separate enclosures for lumpy virus-infected cattle, recovered cattle and non-infected cattle. "In addition to destitute cattle breeding sites and Kanha groves, common cattle herders should also be made aware of this," Adityanath added.

The chief minister said that currently, an amount of ₹30 (US$0.36) per cow is being provided for the maintenance of the cows in 'destitute' cattle centers and to all the families serving the cows. "This amount should now be increased to ₹50 (US$0.60) per cow, and there should be no outstanding balance in this regard," Adityanath added.

- Hindustan Times