Agartala, Oct 30 (UNI) Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha today said the state has made significant advancements in livestock and dairy production and holds second position in milk production in the North Eastern region.
Addressing the 17th Foundation Day celebration, he said Tripura will strive for self-sufficiency in milk and egg production in the near future and stressed the importance of elevating the College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry at R K Nagar here to one of the premier institutions in the nation.
“We are positioned well in terms of milk, eggs, and meat production. Our next objective is to attain complete self-sufficiency in milk and egg production. The government must collaborate with all stakeholders to realize this goal,” he said.
The Chief Minister said the infrastructure of this veterinary college is comparable to that of other medical college hospitals. It's essential to realize that veterinary science entails even more complexity than human medicine, necessitating extensive study for students.
The Chief Minister said he regularly monitors the college's progress and has prioritized tackling faculty shortages. “In the past, Tripura had merely one or two seats available for veterinary studies. Today, we’ve made considerable strides, now offering around 66 seats,” he said.
Dr Saha emphasized the vital role that livestock plays in rural development, highlighting India’s substantial presence in the global livestock sector.
“This college should be developed into a model institution, one that both students and faculty can take pride in. As we move forward in an age of AI and 5G, educators and learners alike must stay abreast of the latest advancements,” he noted.
Reflecting on the state’s accomplishments, he remarked that Tripura currently excels in per capita egg availability in the North East and has achieved self-sufficiency in meat production.
He announced the ongoing implementation of the Green Animal Food Development Project which has initiated green fodder cultivation on approximately 286 hectares. The commencement of duck and poultry farming initiatives under the Chief Minister’s Animal Resources Scheme was also highlighted.
In unveiling a significant healthcare initiative, Dr Saha revealed plans for a SHIJA Super Specialty Hospital to be established near RK Nagar. “I am likely to lay the foundation stone for this hospital on November 5. Upon completion, it will attract individuals from across the region,” he added.
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