Chandigarh, September 23: Punjab’s animals are getting urgent protection in the aftermath of the state’s devastating floods, as the government races to contain the spread of the deadly ‘Gal-Ghotu’ (Hemorrhagic Septicemia) disease. In just one week, more than 1.75 lakh animals across 713 villages have been vaccinated, safeguarding both livestock and the livelihoods of thousands of farmers.
The vaccination campaign, launched on September 14, is part of a wider post-flood recovery effort led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. “Punjab’s animals are a vital part of the farmers’ income. Their safety is the key to the future of Punjab’s agriculture. Our government works not just for people but for every living being,” Mann said.
Animal Husbandry Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian said the state acted quickly to prevent the disease from spreading. “Our teams moved fast after the floods to vaccinate animals in affected districts. This effort secures the health of livestock and protects the backbone of Punjab’s agriculture,” he noted.
During the floods, Punjab’s government had already rescued over five lakh animals stranded on rooftops and in fields, using drones and boats to reach remote areas, including Fazilka and other severely affected districts. Authorities arranged food, water, and shelter for rescued animals, demonstrating a coordinated response for both humans and livestock.
The ongoing campaign employs mobile veterinary units, free medicines, and awareness programs in districts such as Amritsar, Fazilka, Ferozepur, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Jalandhar, Kapurthala, Moga, Pathankot, Rupnagar, and Tarn Taran. Officials emphasize that these measures are designed not just for immediate relief but to create a long-term system that minimizes the impact of natural disasters and animal diseases.
Minister Khuddian added, “Our focus is to ensure that farmers can recover quickly. Protecting livestock is protecting livelihoods. This is the core of Punjab’s post-flood recovery strategy.”
The swift response highlights the state government’s dual commitment to people and animals, positioning Punjab as a model for proactive disaster and disease management in agriculture.
