Week-long goat farming training ends at vet varsity

Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVSU) concluded a week-long goat farming training programme, which drew 15 enthusiastic participants, including eleven men and four women.

Dr JPS Gill, Vice-Chancellor, affirmed the university’s unwavering commitment to supporting livestock farmers and advancing the sector through every possible avenue. He emphasised that goat farming possesses immense potential as a catalyst for self-employment and sustainable income generation, particularly among rural youth.

At the valedictory ceremony, Dr RS Grewal, Director of Extension Education, urged the participants to embrace goat farming not only as a traditional occupation, but also as a strategic and forward-looking solution for enhancing employment and achieving self-sufficiency.

Dr Jaswinder Singh, course director and Head of the Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension Education, said the training covered a wide spectrum of essential topics, including housing systems, nutritional management, reproductive health, veterinary care, disease control, biosecurity measures, zoonotic risk mitigation and effective marketing strategies.

Nishan Singh, a progressive farmer known for his integrated agri-livestock ventures, generously imparted his extensive field experience to the participants. His practical insights into contemporary goat-rearing techniques significantly enhanced their learning experience.

Dr RK Sharma, Director of the Regional Research and Training Centre, Talwara, and coordinator, has delivered insightful lectures and offered invaluable recommendations, drawing from his extensive expertise, which also benefitted the participants.

Participants, especially women trainees, expressed overwhelming appreciation regarding the initiative of delivering free of charge training to female participants.