Bareilly: The ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) organized a five-day intensive training programme from February 23 to 27, 2026, on the theme “Primary Livestock Health Management and Artificial Insemination.” The programme was conducted for paraveterinary staff of the Odisha Animal Husbandry Department and was sponsored by the Veterinary Officers Training Institute (VOTI), Government of Odisha.
The primary objective of the training was to enhance the technical competencies of frontline animal health workers. The curriculum comprehensively covered key aspects of primary livestock healthcare, with special emphasis on artificial insemination (AI) and pregnancy diagnosis in large animals.
Participants received both theoretical and practical training on AI techniques, semen management, heat detection, and pregnancy diagnosis in large animals. Additionally, hands-on training was imparted on pregnancy diagnosis in goats using the abdominal method, a highly useful technique for managing small ruminants at the field level.
Clinical and practical sessions introduced trainees to the latest diagnostic techniques, advanced treatment protocols, and scientific livestock management practices. Important topics included mastitis prevention and management, scientific feeding schedules, vaccination programmes, identification of toxic plants, and the role of ethno-veterinary (traditional) treatment methods in animal disease management. Special focus was placed on problem-solving approaches to address common regional health and reproductive issues.
The valedictory session was attended by Course Director Dr. Rupsi Tiwari and Course Coordinator Dr. Brijesh Kumar. In her address, Dr. Rupsi Tiwari stated that IVRI is working as a knowledge partner for the Animal Husbandry Department of the Government of Odisha and emphasized the need for continued collaboration and knowledge-sharing in the future. She assured that IVRI experts would remain available to provide technical support to strengthen the state’s veterinary services.
Dr. Brijesh Kumar presented a detailed overview of the training modules and highlighted the practical skills developed by participants. He appreciated the enthusiastic involvement of the trainees and acknowledged their commitment to capacity building.
The organizers also expressed gratitude to the Joint Directorate of Extension Education, including Shri Akash, Shri Veer Singh, and other staff members, for their valuable support in ensuring the smooth and successful conduct of the programme.
Overall, the training programme marked a significant step toward strengthening the capabilities of paraveterinary personnel, enabling them to deliver effective primary livestock healthcare and reproductive services at the grassroots level and contribute to sustainable livestock development in Odisha.
Report by Akhilesh Chandra Saxena from Bareilly.
