GB Govt Launches Veterinary Ambulance Service to Support Farmers A Major Step Toward Strengthening the Livestock Sector
GILGIT:
The Government of Gilgit-Baltistan has taken a significant step for the welfare of farmers with the launch of a modern Veterinary Ambulance Service and the inauguration of several new projects at Livestock & Demo Farms. A special ceremony was held in Gilgit, attended by Additional Chief Secretary (Development) Mushtaq Ahmed as the chief guest. Secretary Agriculture, Livestock & Dairy Development Mansoor Alam, Secretary Finance Najeeb Alam, Deputy Chief Planning & Development Abdul Jabbar, and other senior officers also participated.
Speaking at the ceremony, Additional Chief Secretary Mushtaq Ahmed said agriculture and livestock are the backbone of Gilgit-Baltistan’s economy. He emphasized that overreliance on government jobs among youth is contributing to rising poverty. He stressed the need to strengthen local production instead of relying on livestock imported from other regions, and highlighted that true prosperity is only possible through the development of agriculture, livestock, and fisheries.
Secretary Agriculture & Livestock Mansoor Alam revealed that Gilgit-Baltistan has approximately 3.7 million animals, supported through multiple veterinary laboratories, dairy farms, sheep farms, poultry farms, and demo farms. He said veterinary ambulances and modern facilities will now be provided in every district to ensure timely treatment and disease management for livestock.
Director Livestock Dr. Syed Ishtiaq Hussain said the veterinary ambulances will directly benefit communities in Skardu, Diamer, Shigar, Astore, Ghizer, Hunza, and Gilgit, bringing treatment services to farmers’ doorsteps. He added that women are also being empowered financially by supporting them in milk and egg sales.
During the event, guests also inspected a cattle farm where Dr. Ishtiaq Hussain briefed them on ongoing initiatives. The officials inaugurated a successful water boring project under the Livestock & Dairy Development Department.
In the closing session, the Additional Chief Secretary, Secretary Finance, and Secretary Agriculture & Livestock handed over keys of the newly allocated veterinary ambulances to representatives of different districts.
