Caritas India, in collaboration with the Veterinary Department of the Government of Assam, has successfully implemented a comprehensive veterinary training and vaccination program in the West Karbi Anglong district as part of its Assam Flood Response project. The program aims to restore the livelihoods of the most vulnerable households in the Hojai, Cachar, and West Karbi Anglong districts, which were severely affected by last year’s devastating floods.

The Assam Flood Response project, led by Caritas India, is a crucial initiative aimed at supporting and empowering communities impacted by the recurring floods in the region. Through this project, Caritas India is working tirelessly to assist 750 households in the Hojai, Cachar, and West Karbi Anglong districts, helping them rebuild their lives and restore their livelihoods, which were shattered by the destructive floods.

As part of the livelihood support provided, 424 households in the target areas have received livestock, which includes pigs, goats, and poultry. Recognizing the importance of ensuring the health and well-being of these animals, Caritas India, in partnership with the Veterinary Department of the Government of Assam, initiated a comprehensive veterinary training and vaccination program in the West Karbi Anglong district.

Dr. Rimjhim Beypi, Veterinary Officer from Rongkhang Block Veterinary Dispensary, Donkamokam, West Karbi Anglong district facilitated the training on 18th May 2023 for more than 200 participants. The program focused on equipping livestock owners with essential knowledge and skills in veterinary care and management. Training sessions were conducted by qualified veterinarians and experts, covering various aspects such as animal health, hygiene, nutrition, and preventive measures against common diseases. The participants, consisting of livestock owners from the affected communities, were trained on proper animal handling, identification of common ailments, and administering basic treatments.

In addition to the training sessions, a large-scale vaccination drive was organized on 19th May 2023 by a five-member team from the veterinary department to ensure the health and immunity of the livestock. Caritas India, along with the Veterinary Department, facilitated the availability of vaccines and coordinated the logistics to reach the flood-affected areas. Vaccination teams were deployed to administer vaccines against prevalent diseases, protecting the livestock from potential outbreaks and ensuring their long-term health and productivity.

The collaborative effort between Caritas India and the Veterinary Department of the Government of Assam has proven instrumental in addressing the immediate and long-term needs of livestock owners in the West Karbi Anglong district. By providing training and vaccinations, the program not only safeguards the health and well-being of the animals but also enhances the resilience of the communities heavily reliant on livestock for their livelihoods.

The veterinary training and vaccination program serves as an important step towards restoring the livelihoods of the affected households and promoting sustainable recovery in flood-affected areas. By equipping livestock owners with the necessary knowledge and tools, Caritas India aims to empower them to overcome the challenges posed by recurring floods and build more resilient livelihood systems.

Caritas India expresses its gratitude to the Veterinary Department of the Government of Assam for their collaboration and support in implementing this vital program. The joint effort exemplifies the power of partnership and the collective commitment to serve the most vulnerable communities in times of crisis.