AH&VS launches FMD Round VII vaccination in Kohima

Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS) launched the seventh round of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccination under the National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP) on April 15 at the State Cattle Breeding Farm (SCBF), Lerie, Kohima.
Director, A.H. & Veterinary Services, Nagaland, Dr. Kuokehebi Gwirie, formally launched the drive and highlighted that FMD is an economically significant disease, causing an estimated annual loss of around Rs. 30,000 crore in the country. He noted that although India is among the highest milk-producing nations, the absence of FMD-free status restricts exports of milk and milk products.
Dr. Gwirie explained that the Government of India initiated efforts to control FMD in 2003–04, which was later brought under National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP) NADCP in 2019 as a centrally sponsored scheme with 100% funding. Vaccines are provided free of cost, along with remuneration for each vaccination carried out. He emphasized the importance of ear tagging for traceability and monitoring, ensuring 100% coverage of livestock. Vaccination is conducted twice a year, as the vaccine potency lasts for six months.
He further stated that Nagaland, currently in the seventh round of vaccination, must keep pace with the rest of the country to achieve the national goal of becoming FMD-free by 2030. He cautioned that non-cooperation by villages could lead to outbreaks, increasing the state’s liability, and urged all stakeholders to take the programme seriously.
Joint director, Dr. H. Inato Jimomi, highlighted that the NADCP aims to control FMD by 2025–26 and achieve eradication by 2030. He explained that the campaign targets 100% coverage of the bovine population—cattle, buffalo and mithun—through free biannual vaccination. He added that while the previous round achieved 87.2% coverage, efforts are being made to reach full coverage in the current round. The programme, is expected to enhance livestock productivity, increase milk yield, and boost exports of livestock products. Dr. Inato said.
Deputy Director, Dr. Rebecca Khing, delivered the vote of thanks, while the programme was chaired by Dr. Kewelelo Mero, Chief Executive Officer, Nagaland Livestock Development Board.