Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Minister K. Atchannaidu is launching state-wide free animal health camps at Nidamanur near Vijayawada on Monday. | Photo credit: GN Rao
Andhra Pradesh Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Minister K. Atchannaidu on Monday announced the launch of free veterinary camps in all villages across the state from January 19 to 31. The initiative is aimed at improving animal health, increasing productivity, preventing disease and reducing maintenance costs for farmers.
The program was inaugurated and nidamanuru village in vijada rural mandal in the presence of government whip and gnavaram mla yarlagadda venkatda.
Under the program, livestock owners receive free veterinary services, including vaccinations, fertility-related treatments, deworming medications, diagnostic tests and awareness of scientific animal husbandry practices. Stating that cattle are the primary source of income for rural households, the minister assured that the government is committed to providing quality services with a strong focus on preventive health care.
He said Andhra Pradesh enjoys national recognition for its Ongole and Punganur cattle, Godavari buffaloes, Nellore and Macherla sheep and Aseel poultry. At present, the state has 10.82 million cattle and buffaloes, 23.15 million sheep and goats and 107.86 million poultry, supporting the livelihood of about 2.5 million farmer families. The livestock sector contributes ₹1,67,000 crore to the state economy, accounting for 10.26% of gross value added. Andhra Pradesh ranks first in egg production, fourth in meat production and seventh in milk production nationally.
The government also introduced several subsidized programs for livestock development, including the construction of 58,440 cattle sheds, livestock insurance with an 85% subsidy, and the supply of sexed sperm for goats and sheep with a 50% subsidy.
Mr. Atchannaidu said livestock development, especially as a means of empowering women’s livelihoods, was a key priority under the Swarna Andhra Vision-2047. He said the state is working to achieve top three national rankings in milk, meat and egg production.
Published – 19 Jan 2026 21:03 IST
