Foot and Mouth Disease vaccination has been intensified across Gujarat to protect livestock and reduce economic losses for dairy farmers. The campaign began on 1 March and will continue until 15 April under the National Animal Disease Control Programme. It targets cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, buffaloes, sheep and goats, which are highly vulnerable to the viral infection.
What is Foot and Mouth Disease?
Foot and Mouth Disease is a highly contagious viral disease of livestock. It causes fever, mouth ulcers and excessive salivation. Infected animals often suffer a sharp fall in milk yield and overall productivity. The disease spreads quickly among animals, making timely vaccination essential for control.
Vaccination Campaign in Gujarat
- Animals are being identified through ear-tagging before vaccination.
- Details are uploaded on the INAPH portal, which tracks animal productivity and health.
- The digital system helps monitor vaccination coverage across the state.
- Vaccination drives are conducted twice a year, in March and September.
Importance for Dairy Farmers
The campaign is aimed at preventing outbreaks that can cause major financial losses to cattle owners. Reduced milk production directly affects household income in dairy-dependent areas. Regular vaccination is seen as the most effective preventive measure for protecting livestock health and sustaining rural livelihoods.
Local Response and Disease Control Efforts
Farmers and milk cooperative societies have supported the drive. In several villages, vaccination teams are visiting households and covering large livestock populations. Officials have stressed that sustained mass vaccination is necessary for long-term control and eventual eradication of the disease in Gujarat.
Last Modified: April 29, 2026