At the time of integration (1-7-49) of Travancore and Cochin, a separate Veterinary Department was in existence in Cochin state, while Animal Husbandry activity was a part of Agricultural Department in Travancore state. The cattle in those days were mostly non descript desi varieties with poor milk production. At the time of integration, there were 22 Veterinary Hospitals and 10 Veterinary Dispensaries in Travancore area and there were 12 Veterinary Hospitals and 12 Veterinary Dispensaries and 12 Stockmen Stations in Cochin area. 13 Veterinary Surgeons and a few Veterinary Inspectors managed these institutions.
Artificial Insemination facilities were introduced in selected areas with the establishment (February 1952) of Key Farm Centres (ICAR) at Trivandrum, Kottayam, Ernakulam and Ollukkara, using semen of Sindhi Breed. Grading up of local cows with Sindhi and buffaloes with Murrah had been the breeding policy in vogue at that time.

Following institutions were in existence at the time of formation of Kerala state on1/11/1956:

Veterinary Hospital – 39.
Veterinary Dispensaries and Veterinary Dispensaries manned by Veterinary Surgeons - 12
Touring billets manned by Veterinary Surgeons - 2
Veterinary Dispensaries and Stockmen stations were manned by - 43 Stockmen.

Currently, after 45 years of formation of Kerala State about 2638 institutions are functioning in the Animal Husbandry Department.The activities of Animal Husbandry Department have been led by the broad goal of rendering livestock forming a strong component of General Development Process in the state. Specifically this breaks into the following main components.

• Strengthening the livestock population of the state in terms of both number and quality.
• Increasing the production of milk, egg and meat
• Creating more self- employment opportunities in the Animal Husbandry sector.
• Assisting weaker sections of the society to enhance their income level.
• Control of animal diseases
• Conduct scientific studies into relevant aspects of livestock rearing.
• Collection and analysis of data and information on the Animal Husbandry Sector of the state.
• To equip the farmers with modern scientific practices in Animal Husbandry.

The majority of livestock population in the state is concentrated in villages. Mostly peasants and agricultural laborers are engaged in cattle rearing and allied activities. Hence any development in the Animal Husbandry sector will strengthen the rural economy. About 10% of the Gross Domestic Product of the state is contributed by this sector.

Milk, egg and meat are the principal primary products of Animal Husbandry in Kerala. This sector can also contribute its share to the industrial Development of the state by way of supplying industrial products like bacon, hides, skins etc.

Protective and promotional activities of the Animal Husbandry Department are being conducted through various institutions such as, Veterinary Dispensaries, Veterinary Hospitals, Veterinary Poly Clinics, District Veterinary Centres, Intensive Cattle Development Projects, and ICDP Sub Centres etc.

Panchayat Raj Act came into existence on 2nd October 1995 as per GO (P) No.189/95 dated 18/9/1995 and most of the institutions of Animal Husbandry Department were handed over to Grama Panchayats, Gilla Panchayats, Block Panchayat, Municipalities and Corporations.

The following institutions were handed over to Gilla Panchayats

• District Animal Husbandry Office and District Veterinary Centres
• Regional Artificial Insemination Centres
• Mobile Farm Aid Units
• Clinical Laboratories and Mobile Veterinary Hospitals
• Pig Breeding Units
• Livestock Farms except District Livestock Farm, Kudappanakkunnu
• Poultry Farms of Kottayam, Idukki, Malappuram and Kozhikode Districts
• Goat Farms at Attappadi and Komeri

Calf Feed Subsidy Scheme, ICDP Sub Centres, Veterinary Dispensaries, Veterinary Hospitals were handed over to Grama Panchayat and Veterinary Poly Clinics functioning in Grama Panchayats were handed over to Block Panchayats.ICDP Sub Centres, Veterinary Hospitals and Veterinary Poly Clinics situated in Municipal and Corporation areas were handed over to Municipalities and Corporations respectively.

District Livestock Farm, Kudappanakkunnu; Jersey Farm, Vithura; Jersey Farm Extension Unit, Palode; and Buffalo Breeding Farm, Kuriottumala are the institutions engaged in Cattle and Buffalo rearing activities. There are nine Poultry Farms, One Broiler Farm, One Duck Farm, a Central Hatchery and two Intensive Poultry Development Blocks for Poultry Breeding activities. Besides, there are two Goat Breeding Farms and Six Pig Breeding Centres in the state along with a Pig Breeding Farm at Kappad.

Planning at the directorate level is handled by a section under the control of an Additional Director supported by a Deputy Director, an Assistant Director and other staff members. In addition to the formulation of schemes this section undertakes processing of the guidelines and instructions to the Departmental Officers on the implementation of Plan schemes, monitoring the progress of implementation, review of the implementation, concurrent evaluation of on going schemes and evaluation of completed scheme.

General Administration

The Animal Husbandry Directorate is housed in Vikas Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram.

The overall technical, administrative and financial control is vested with the Director, supported by two Additional Directors, three Joint Directors, six Deputy Directors and five Assistant Directors, attached to the Directorate.

The major technical wings at the Directorate are Veterinary Services and Animal Health, Planning, Livestock Production, Poultry and Animal Husbandry Statistics.

Administrative wing of the Department comprises of an Administrative Officer, Finance Officer, two Administrative Assistants and one Accounts Officer.

A Statistical wing is functioning in the Directorate under the guidance of Joint Director (Statistics). The cell consists of two wings - the Official statistics wing and the Sample Survey wing. One Research Officer is allotted to Official Statistics wing and two Research Officers to the Sample Survey wing.

The following is the staff pattern of the Directorate

• Director
• Additional Directors (2)
  

1. Animal Health & Veterinary Service.
2. Planning.

• Joint Directors (3).
  

1. Livestock Production.
2. Poultry.
3. Statistics.

• Deputy Directors (6).

1. Planning.
2. Veterinary.
3. Key Village.
4. Extension.
5. Swine Husbandry.
6. Poultry.

• Assistant Directors (5).

1. Planning.
2. Cattle Development.
3. Rabies Eradication.
4. Central Store Organisation.
5. Fodder.

• Finance Officer.
• Administrative Officer.

Administrative Assistants (2).

• Accounts Officer.
• Research Officers (3).

1. Sample Survey (2).
2. Official Statistic Wing (1)

About 2,638 institutions are functioning in the Animal Husbandry Department. The following institutions are under the director control of Head Quarters.

Chief Disease Investigation Office, Palode
Epidemiological Cell, Thiruvananthapuram
Institute of Animal Health and Veterinary Biologicals, Palode
Livestock Disease Control Office, Thiruvananthapuram.
Special Livestock Breeding Programme- Head Quarters, Thiruvananthapuram
Central Hatchery, Chengannur
Avian Disease Diagnostics Lab, Thiruvalla
Cattle Sterility Office, Aluva
Swine Husbandry Office, Aluva
Rinderpest Eradication Scheme, Head Quarters, Palakkad
Livestock Management Training Centres at Mundayad, Malampuzha, Aluva, and Kudappanakkunnu.

District Level Administration

The responsibility of district level Animal Husbandry activities is vested with the District Animal Husbandry Officer in the cadre of Joint Director.

The District Animal Husbandry Officer has technical as well as administrative control over all the veterinary institutions in the districts except those, which are directly administered from the head quarters. In technical matters a Deputy Director and a Veterinary Surgeon assist District Animal Husbandry Officer.
Various Animal Husbandry activities have been conducted under the guidance of District Animal Husbandry Officer for ensuring Animal Husbandry and welfare of farmers.

Animal Health and Veterinary Services

Animal Health section of the Animal Husbandry Directorate deals with the health aspects of the animals in the State. This is achieved through veterinary institutions spread all over the state. An Additional Director controls the concerned section of the Directorate.

Protection of animal health involves prevention of diseases and effective treatment. The target of establishing a veterinary institution in each panchayat manned by a veterinary surgeon is almost fulfilled.

Prevention of disease includes control of contagious diseases by systematic vaccination for which there are so many schemes such as Rinderpest Eradication Programme, Rabies Eradication Programme, Disease Free Zone Scheme, Animal Disease Control Programme, and Assistance to States for Control of Animal Diseases etc. To facilitate accurate diagnosis of diseases and for the production of preventive vaccinations the department maintains prestigious institutions viz. the Institute of Animal Health and Veterinary Biologicals, Chief Disease Investigation Laboratory, Avian Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, Marine and Livestock Products Inspecting Laboratory etc. In addition to this District Veterinary Centres with all facilities are available in all the districts for keen attention of disease problems. Veterinary aid is also made available through farm aid units, Mobile Veterinary Hospitals and Veterinary Poly Clinics.

A wing is functioning in the Directorate to control the veterinary activities of the state under the guidance of a Deputy Director.

The purchase and distribution of vaccines and other items of the whole department is made through the section named “Central Store Organization” of the Directorate functioning under the control of an Assistant Director.

The vaccine and other items for different veterinary institutions of the state are distributed through three central veterinary stores functioning at Thiruvananthapuram, Trissur and Kozhikkode.

Rabies Eradication programme has been functioning as a part of livestock disease control since 1987-88. A wing is also functioning in the Directorate under the control of an Assistant Director.

Livestock Census

Kerala state came into existence on 1st November 1956. It was in 1951 that a livestock census was conducted in the Travancore-Cochin & Malabar areas. The 8th Indian Quinquennial Livestock Census was conducted in 1956 in Travancore- Cochin area by the Department of Statistics of the former Travancore-Cochin State.
The 9th Indian Quinquennial Livestock Census of 1961 was the first Quinquennial Livestock Census of Kerala. Thereafter all the livestock census up to 17th Quinquennial Livestock Census conducted in 2003 were entrusted to the Animal Husbandry Department.

17th Quinquennial Livestock Census

The census was conducted in the state with reference date as 15th October 2003, and the actual enumeration was conducted from 22nd September 2003 to 15th October 2003. The main species of livestock found in the state of Kerala are cattle, buffalo, goat and pig. According to the 17th quinquennial livestock census, 61% of the total population is cattle, 1.9% are buffaloes, 34.85% are goats and 2.2% are pigs. The total livestock population shows a decrease of 18.9% against the livestock population of 16th census. The cattle population as per 17th census is 21,22,453 - 1,82,101 males and 19,40,352 females. This means that sex ratio is 10655 females for 1000 males. Also the cattle population consists of 81.76% crossbred cattle. The buffalo population as per last census is 64,618. The buffalo population has decreased by 42.03% during the inter censual period between 16th and 17th livestock census. The total number of goats as per 17th livestock census is 1213173, which show a decrease of 24.09% from the 16th livestock census. The sex ratio is 2435 female goats for 1000male goats.

The pig population is 76452, which shows a decrease of 13.16% from the previous census. Of the total pigs 66.64% are crossbred according the 17th census.

Poultry consists of fowl, duck and other birds. Poultry population shows a decrease of 18.09% from the previous census. Out of the total poultry 90% are fowls, 5.4% are ducks and 4.6% are other birds. The fowl population consists of 70% desi fowls and 30% improved fowls.

Disease Eradication Programmes

(i) Rinderpest Eradication Scheme – Kerala.

Rinderpest Eradication Scheme was undertaken in the State in a systematic way from 18-6-1965. Rinderpest Eradication work operates both as a Non Plan and a centrally sponsored plan scheme.

Under the Non-plan scheme there are 17 regular Check posts, 6 Vigilance Units, 2 Mobile Units, and 2 Mass vaccination Squads. Rinderpest Check posts have been established to inspect and vaccinate all the incoming animals against Rinderpest levying a fee of Rs.2/- per animal. Rinderpest vaccination at the border control check posts discontinued with effect from 31-12-1997 as per the decision taken in southern Regional Conference of National Project on Rinderpest Eradication held at Hyderabad. The animals entering the state through the check posts are being thoroughly inspected for signs of Rinderpest, or Rinderpest like diseases and entry disallowed for infectious animals. In the event of an outbreak of foot and Mouth disease in the State, the check post officials have been instructed to check and restrict the entry of diseased animals. The birds entering into the state are inspected at the check post and entry is permitted only to birds having proper health certificates. Strict vigil has been exercised in the check posts to check the violation of SPCA rules during the transport of animals.

A total number of 475966 animals were inspected at the check posts during the year 2004-05.

The RP Vigilance Units and RP Mobile Units were engaged in conducting stock route search in the villages along the seven identified high-risk high-density stock routes to detect hidden foci of infection, if any.

This is a 100% centrally sponsored scheme and is a part of the global effort for Rinderpest Eradication. This is implemented in 3 phases viz. preparatory phase, eradication phase and consolidation phase. Prior to the commencement of NPRE, the plan part of the scheme was implemented as a 100% central assistance scheme, under operation Rinderpest Zero. During the eradication phase, two Mass vaccination Squads were established. A well-equipped laboratory with modern facilities was established for diagnosis of diseases of animals and poultry.

The National Project on Rinderpest Eradication has declared our state provisionally free from Rinderpest with effect from 1-3-1998 and the international committee of the OIE approved this provisional freedom on 27th May 2004.

During 2004-05 the National Project on Rinderpest Eradication has formulated the following guidelines

1. To conduct village search and Daybook inspection in all Districts to detect the incidence of Rinderpest or R.P like disease.
2. Stock route search in villages along the seven identified high risk, high density stock routes.
3. Sero- surveillance in 3 selected villages in Kasaragod, Pathanamthitta and Trissur districts.
4. Strengthening of the information campaign and disease reporting system.
Circulation of pamphlets display of posters and mass communication through print and electronic media were major activities undertaken to create public awareness about National Project on Rinderpest Eradication activities in the state.

(ii) Livestock Disease Control Scheme, Thiruvananthapuram.

During the VIth Five Year Plan, a scheme was launched by Govt. of India to eradicate the occurrence of contagious diseases of National Importance among Livestock Species. This scheme was sanctioned vide G.O. Ms. No. 113/03/AD dated 21-4-1983 and the expenditure was met by both State and Central Government on 50:50 basis. This scheme started functioning on 9-5-1983 focusing mainly on the eradication of Foot and Mouth disease. Vide G.O. (Rt) No.21/04/AD dated 5-1-2004 a scheme of Foot and Mouth Disease Control Programme, a component of the centrally sponsored scheme Livestock Health Disease Control was sanctioned. The scheme was sanctioned during the year 2003-04.

The scheme was implemented in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Pathanamthitta districts within a specified period of time and thus control Foot and Mouth disease and to create a Disease Free Zone so as to increase the export of meat from these areas. The first round vaccination of 1st phase was carried out during the months of April and May. Subsequently drop out vaccinations were carried out. Since that round of vaccination could cover only 25-30% of the susceptible animal population, a 2nd round of vaccine was conducted from1-7-04 to 15-7-04 and drop out vaccinations were done during the next month.

The Livestock Disease Control Scheme is headed by the Joint Director at Headquarters, Thiruvananthapuram District. The three disease free zone units at Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Pathanamthitta started during 1983-84 with Head quarters at Nedumangad, Punalur and Adoor respectively. One L.D.C Checkpost originally sanctioned at Chengannoor presently shifted to Perala in Kasargode District under the Administrative control of the Project Officer, Livestock Disease Control.

(iii) Animal Disease Control Project

The Animal Disease Control Project, named “GOREKSHA”, is a joint venture programme of the Government of Kerala, Government of India and the National Dairy Development Board. The basic objective of the project is conversion of the state into a Disease controlled zone by controlling / eradicating animal diseases of economic importance. Since Foot & Mouth disease ranks top in the economic importance, control of Foot & Mouth disease was given priority in the project.

Government of India issued orders for the implementation of the project vide GO (Rt) No. 176/04/AD dated 24-8-2004.As per GO (Rt) No. 789/2004/AH dated 25-9-2004 Govt. have constituted a Project Management Committee with the Agricultural Production Commissioner Government of Kerala as the Chairman.
A project management unit (the Goreksha Mission) with a Senior Additional Director of the Department of Animal Husbandry as project coordinator and supported by two Joint Directors, IT officers, Accounts Officer and supportive technicians and ministerial staff was established to co-ordinate the activities of the project at State level. District level units with District coordinator, District epidemiologist, District Laboratory officers and supporting staff were established in all 14 districts.

(iv) Assistance to states for control of animal diseases (ASCAD)

The scheme envisages for control of major animal diseases by providing strategic immunization cover, strengthening of important diagnostic laboratories and biological production centers, take up disease surveillance, monitoring and forecasting, information and communication campaigns and equipping of technicians.

With the aim to promote export and to improve quality on products, the state has taken up projects to make the state a disease free one, this scheme is being implemented in the state since 2004-05. The high demand on livestock and its products pave way for large inflow of animals and birds from neighboring states which necessitates the total inoculation of animals and birds within the state, strengthening of clinical laboratories, biological production centers to perform to the reputed standards, equip our technicians to tackle any biological disasters and to knit up a strong data base of disease profile of our state and also of neighboring states to trigger up preventive measures within our state.

The following are the components of the scheme:

1. Immunization Programme
2. Strengthening and Modernization of Biological Production Complex
3. Strengthening of Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratories
4. Training to Veterinarians and Para-Veterinarians
5. Surveillance, monitoring and forecasting
6. Information and communication campaign
7. Control of emergent and exotic diseases

Disease Investigation and Control

The main objectives of Disease Investigation unit are the following:

Investigate the causes of outbreak of diseases among livestock and poultry, co-ordinate the investigation work and suggest control and eradication measures, mass vaccination of cattle and poultry against contagious diseases, establish the infrastructure for disease surveillance, study epidemiology and other factors relating to various livestock and poultry diseases etc.

Various schemes have been implemented for the effective control of various livestock and poultry diseases through different institutions.

(i)Chief Disease Investigation Office, Palode

The Chief Disease Investigation Office situated at Palode is the state diagnostic and referral laboratory of Kerala under the Department of Animal Husbandry. This office was established to control and co-ordinate the disease diagnostic activities of the entire state of Kerala. The high yielding crossbred animals, which were, evolved as a result of modern scientific breeding programme seems to be more susceptible to common as well as newly emerging diseases. In order to combat this situation, a disease investigation organization was formed at Veterinary College, Mannuthy, Thrissur. At that time the office consisted of three disease investigation units namely, Disease Investigation Unit (Cattle), Disease Investigation Unit (poultry), Disease Investigation Unit (T.B.). In1975, the three disease investigation units were brought under newly created post of Chief Disease Investigation Officer in the cadre of Joint Director with head quarters at Thiruvananthapuram. Later, in 1982 the office was shifted to its own building at Palode in Thiruvananthapuram District on 15/6/1982 as per G.O (Rt) No.1150/82/AD dated 23-4-1982.

The main objectives of this scheme are

• Disease investigation during outbreaks
• Referral support for diagnosis of diseases
• Co-ordination of activities of Clinical laboratories
• Research on animal and avian diseases
• Disease surveillance
• Training

Four well-equipped laboratories are established in this organization to undertake Microbiological, Pathological, Parasitological and Toxicological investigations. Each laboratory functions under the direct supervision of an officer in the cadre of an Assistant Director assisted by a Veterinary Surgeon and a Laboratory Technician.
In the year 2000, the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on FMD identified the CDIO as its Network Unit in Kerala State for Foot and Mouth Disease Virus Typing. In this laboratory samples suspected for FMD from different parts of the state are being typed using the Sandwich Elisa method. The results will be communicated to the concerned officers and a part of the sample will be sent to IVRI, Mukteswar for further virus characterization.

Rabies Diagnostic Laboratory of CDIO is providing a very valuable service to public by diagnosing rabies so that the exposed persons can take the immediate preventive steps. CDIO also offer special diagnostic facilities for the diagnosis of diseases like Brucellosis, Anthrax, PPR and Leptospirosis etc. apart from FMD and rabies. A mobile unit of laboratory is also functioning under the office for carrying out disease investigation in the field.

(ii) Avian Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, Thiruvalla.

Avian Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, a prestigious institution of Animal Husbandry Department, has started functioning at Thiruvalla on 8-10-1979 as per G.O. (Rt) No. 2522/79/AD dated 7-9-1979. This laboratory is exclusively meant for the diagnosis and control of various Avian Diseases in the state including both Government farms and private farms. This laboratory has got a statewide jurisdiction with respect to poultry and has been able to control every major outbreak that has occurred in the recent past in the poultry sector. Recently this lab has been raised to the status of Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratory.
This laboratory comprises mainly of three labs viz. Pathology, Virology and Bacteriology laboratories and post mortem section. The pathology lab has got facilities to conduct histopathological techniques and for processing specimen.

Bacterial and virology laboratory has got facilities to conduct antibiotic sensitivity tests, isolation and identification of avian pathogens etc. Aflatoxin analysis of feed samples sent by various government farms are being conducted here at free of cost using Vicam Afla flurometer.

Ongoing activities of this laboratory are

(1) Screening of birds in Government farms for diseases
(2) Post mortem diagnosis of diseases in poultry
(3) Visit to various farms (both private and Government) for disease surveillance and investigation
(4) Isolation and identification of Avian pathogens
(5) Feed analysis for the detection of Aflatoxin
(6) Diagnosis of Leptospirosis
(7) Examination of milk, dung, urine, skin scrapings of cattle, goat ,dog etc. sent from hospitals for detailed studies
(8) Extension education to farmers on profitable poultry production and management

(iii) Epidemiological Cell

This unit was established in 1982 as per G.O (Rt) 1608/82/DD dated 19/6/1982 to implement ‘Animal Disease Surveillance Scheme’
The objective of the scheme is to collect, analyze, interpret and report the monthly data on all the cases treated against different types of livestock and poultry diseases in the state. Outbreaks and occurrences of diseases are monitored depending on this data. District-wise monthly details of the scheme were collected and the consolidated report of the state has been communicated to the Government of India

Biological Production Programme

Institute Of Animal Health and Veterinary Biologicals, Palode, Thiruvananthapuram

The Institute of Animal Health & Veterinary Biologicals was set up at Palode in 1979 to manufacture Veterinary Biologicals. The scheme for establishment of the Institute was sanctioned as per G.O ((MS) 302/77/AD dated 19-10-1977. The institute is functioning under the Department of Animal Husbandry through the budget provision of the department. The existing campus extends over 46.52 acres of land and consists of Main Laboratory Complex, R&D Laboratory, Standardization Laboratory, Administration Block, Experimental Animal Unit, Observation sheds, Autopsy and Incenerator Block and Residential Quarters.

The Institute produces Biologicals such as vaccines against bacterial diseases, viz; Anthrax, Hemorrhagic Septicemia and Black Quarter and Viral Diseases such as Ranikhet Disease, Fowl Pox and Duck Plague, Diagnostic Antigens for diagnosis of diseases like Salmonellosis in poultry, Brucellosis etc. and Diagnostic Reagents like the California Mastitis Test Reagent and diluents for dilution of freeze dried vaccines.

Besides vaccine production, the Institute also undertakes Research and Development activities and training programmes. The Institute is headed by a Director who is an Additional Director (Senior Additional Director of the Department of Animal Husbandry) and assisted by Technical Wing and Ministerial staff.

The main objective of the Institute is production and distribution of Veterinary vaccines and other Biologicals to the farming community. The Institute could manufacture standardize and distribute four viral vaccines and four bacterial vaccines. The main production laboratory was commissioned during the year 2001. The 15 production cubicles were brought to full operation and all the poultry vaccines supplied were given in the more stable freeze-dried form.


The institute produced 135 lakhs doses of viral vaccines, 4 lakhs doses of bacterial vaccines, 67 vials of antigens and 7596 bottles of diluents during the year 2004-05. The institute offered training in various topics in vaccinology to students from different colleges in and outside the state.

Livestock Development Programmes

Animal Husbandry sector plays an important role in the strengthening the economy of the state, especially rural economy. Besides, AH sector is providing employment opportunities to unemployed and underemployed rural poor.

According to the 17th Quinquennial Livestock Census 2003, cattle population of the state was 21.22 lakhs. This consists of 81.76% crossbred animals. Buffalo population was only 64618. Total number of in milk bovine was 7.27 lakhs.

Breeding Policy of Kerala

The demand for milk and milk products in Kerala is on the rise and hence it is necessary that an appropriate policy to augment the productivity of the animals be framed. The productivity increase will ensure better returns to the farmer. Also this will keep the number of animals to be supported to meet the demand in control. This in turn will ensure better utilization of the scarce resources of the state.

It is envisaged to achieve the increased production by designing genetically superior animals and is possible by

1. upgrading genetic potential of the animal including cattle, buffalo and goats.
2. increasing the proportion of high yielding crossbreds in the population
3. enhancing the reproductive efficiency of the female population.

Genetic Improvement

Jersey, Holstein Friesian are the two major breeds used for crossbreeding in the state. Jersey though not the highest producer is a breed well adapted to our climatic and economic conditions. However high yielding Holstein Friesian is used for cross breeding in areas where roughage and other resources are in plenty. Hence Jersey and Holstein Friesian breeds are accepted as exotic donor breeds for the state.

It is established beyond doubt that 50% exotic breed is the most appropriate proportion and hence decided to limit it to 50% and not beyond.

The systematic genetic selection programme for the proper implementation of the Breeding policy is being done with the assistance of the Govt of India. The average milk yield increase is recorded as 56.6 Kg. in the first standard lactation.

It is also recommended to bring in bulls from other parts of the country for cross breeding and the process is going on.

Elimination of genetically poor female population has to be done but not attempted so far due to economic constraints.

The breeding activity in the state being done by two major agencies. The Animal Husbandry Department is the implementing agency and Kerala Livestock Development Board is the supplier of the required genetic inputs and logistics.

Cattle Development

The cattle development programmes have been imparted in the state under the aim of increasing milk & meat production. Among them the most important is crossbreeding activities. The Intensive Cattle Development Programmes have been established in the state aiming at this.

Cattle Breeding

Cattle breeding farms have been established in Kerala for rearing high yielding varieties of cows and buffaloes. These farms are functioning as demonstration cum training centres with a view to providing necessary information and technical know-how to the public on improvement of milk production, cattle management, feeding practices etc. These farms impart farm training to livestock inspectors and vocational higher secondary certificate holders. Milk production and fodder production are other fields of activity.

(i) Intensive Cattle Development Projects

Intensive Cattle Development Project is an integrated scheme with specific object of stepping up overall milk production in a particular area to a targeted level within a specific period by improving the quality of the cattle through selective crossbreeding. The project normally covers a population of about a lakh of breedable cows and simultaneously attends to all aspects of cattle development such as controlled breeding, fodder development, balanced feeding practices and effective disease control.

There are 9 Intensive Cattle Development Projects in operation in the state with head quarters at Thiruvananthpuram, Kottarakkara (Kollam), Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Aluva (Ernakulam), Mala (Trissur), Palakkad, Kozhikkode and Kannur.

1. Intensive Cattle Development Project, Thiruvanathapuram The project was established in 1984 as per G.O (Rt) No.1422/84/A.D dated 1-6-84. This project covers Thiruvanathapurm district. Under this project, there are five regional artificial insemination centers located at Parassala, Aralummoodu, Thiruvananthpuram, Nedumangad and Attingal.
2. Intensive Cattle Development Project, Kottarakkara The project was started functioning on 16-12-1981 as per G.O (Rt) No. 2226/81/A.D. This Project covers Kollam district with four RAIC’s located at Kottarakkara, Kottiyam, Pathanapuram and Sasthamkottah.An embryo transfer programme was started functioning under RAIC, Kottiyam during 1997-98.
3. Intensive Cattle Development Project, Pathanamthitta The project started functioning on 1-9-1990 as per G.O (RT) No. 22/90/A.D.dated 5-1-1990. There are three RAIC’s under this project. They are located at Pathanamthitta, Ranni and Mallappally.
4. Intensive Cattle Development Project, Kattappana, Idukki The project was established in1991 as per G.O (Rt) No. 1639/90/A.D dated 10-10-1990. Under this project there are four RAIC’s with headquarters at Kattappana, Thodupuzha, Nedumkandam and Adimali.
5. Intensive Cattle Development Project, Aluva, Ernakulam This project was established in 1969 as per G.O (MS) No. 503/68/Agri dated 11-12-1968. Under this project there are five RAIC’s located at Aluva, Cherthala, Vaikom, Mavelikkara and Kanjirappally.18 ICDP subcentres are functioning under the direct control of the project office, Aluva.
6. Intensive Cattle Development Project, Mala, Thrissur The project was started with location at Mala during 1998 as per GO (Rt) No. 410/93/A.D dated 25-3-1993.There are four RAIC’s under this project with headquarters at Kodungallur, Kunnamkulam, Chalakkudy and Cherpu.
7. Intensive Cattle Development Project, Palakkad This project started functioning on 1-3-1973 as per G.O (M.S) 325/72/A.D dated 9-10-1972.Three RAIC’s with headquarters at Palakkad, Shornur and Mannarkkad are functioning under this project.
8. Intensive Cattle Development Project, Kozhikkod There are three RAIC’s located at Kozhikkode, Nilampur and Meenangadi.
9. Intensive Cattle Development Project, Kannur There are six RAIC’s under this project at Kannur, Payyannur, Iritty, Kommeri, Kasaragod and Kanhangad.

(ii) Livestock Farms

Livestock farms have been established in Kerala for rearing high yielding varieties of cows and buffaloes.

There are three cattle breeding farms and a buffalo-breeding farm in Kerala under Animal Husbandry Department.
1. District Livestock Farm, Kudappanakkunnu
2. Jersy Farm, Vithura (cattle breeding unit is temporarily closed)
3. Jersy Farm Extension Unit, Chettachal
4. Buffalo Breeding Farm, Kuriottumala

District Livestock Farm, Kudappanakkunnu

This farm was established in 1953 at Kudappanakunnu of Thiruvananthapuram District. This farm is now a demonstration farm which consisting of different demonstration units consisting of cattle of cross-bred varieties such as Jersey, Holstein Friesian and Brown Swiss; Goats of Malabari breed, pigs of large white Yorkshire breed and poultry of Australop, New Hampshix, Rhode Island Red breeds. A quail rearing unit and a duck-rearing unit were also functioning in the farm as demonstration units.

The main objectives of this farm are:
1. imparting training to farmers and students.
2. demonstrational farm to Livestock Management Training Centre, Kudappanakkunnu.
3. for supplying healthy young ones of Large White Yorkshire piglets to farmers.

This farm has a total area of 34.3 hectares, out of which 15 Hectares are utilizing for fodder cultivation. Hybrid Napier the latest variety of Napier CO-3, Congo Signal, Guinea grass, Para grass are the different types of grass cultivating here.

Jersey Farm, Vithura

This farm was established in 1974 as per G.O (M.S) No. 337/74 dated 9/12/1974. This farm was established for producing high yielding cows by cross breeding indigenous breeds with exotic breeds. Cattle rearing unit of this farm was temporarily closed and a goat-rearing unit was established here on 27th March 2003. The main objectives are
1. supplying healthy males of crossbred Malabari goats to farmers.
2. supplying fodder grass to farmers.
This farm has a total area of 160.86 Hectares. 16 Hectares is utilizing for fodder cultivation.

Jersey Farm Extension Unit, Chettachal

The dry stock farm at Chettachal, Palode was converted as an extension unit of the Jersey Farm, Vithura with effect from 26th December 1979 as per G.O.(Rt) No. 2486/79/AD. This farm has a total area of 39.2 Hectares, out of which 14 Hectares is under fodder cultivation.
The main aims of the farm are (1) rearing of crossbred cows (2) production and distribution of good qulity milk and (3) production of good quality fodder. There are 6 cattle sheds in this farm- 2 calf sheds (capacity 30+10), 1 heifer shed (capacity 20), 1 pregnant animal shed (capacity 20), 1 milch animal shed (capacity 50) and a sick animal shed.

Buffalo Breeding Farm, Kuriottumala

This farm was established in 1981 with the following objectives:
a. To breed and rear pedigree buffaloes of Surthi and Murrah breeds.
b. To supply sufficient number of buffalo heifers for breeding purpose.
A cattle rearing unit and a goat-rearing unit are also functioning here. These units are functioning with the objective of producing and supplying high quality milk and producing good quality green grass. The farm has a total area of 161.56 acres, out of which 17 acres are utilizing for fodder cultivation.

(iii) Cattle Sterility Office, Aluva.

The scheme started as per G.O (M.S)/137/83/A.D. dated 21-5-1983.
The scheme is aimed at
(1) Screening of cross bred cows Heifers, Buffaloes to assess the infertility problems
(2) To investigate the causes leading to infertility problems
(3) To rectify the cause of infertility
(4) To publish data on the investigation made, results achieved and suggest ways to modify the breeding and management practices.
(5) To estimate minerals and hormonal level of blood/serum in animals for diagnosing infertility problems.
(6) To suggest proper treatment for sterility conditions by estimating mineral and hormonal level in blood serum of animals.
To conduct this scheme Cattle Sterility Office is functioning at Aluva, Ernakulam District under the control of Cattle Sterility Officer in the cadre of Deputy Director.
During the year 2004-05, 500 nos. of camps were conducted. The farmers attended camps were enlightened with improved knowledge in breeding, feeding and management practices for obtaining production through the group discussion. During this year 324 samples examined for estimation of minerals and hormonal assay in animals.

Goat rearing schemes

Goat rearing has a major role in creating self-employment opportunities in rural sector, which will foster the rural economy. Among the schemes for the welfare and upliftment of weaker sections of society goat distribution has great importance as it encourages them to take up goat rearing as a profession and earn a livelihood. Production and distribution of good quality breeds of goats is indispensable for the successful implementation of these schemes. To meet this three goat breeding farms were established in the state at Parassala of Thiruvanathapuram district, Kommeri of Kannur District and Attappadi of Palakkad district. Besides these, there are goat rearing units attached to the District Livestock Farm, Thiruvanathapuram; Buffalo Breeding Farm, Kuriottumala, Kollam; Jersey Farm Vithura, Thiruvanathapuram.

Goat Farm, Attappadi, Palakkad District

Scheme for setting up a government Goat Farm at Attappadi has been sanctioned as per G.O. (M.S) No. 374/79/A.D. dated 6-10-1979 with a view to help the tribal families of Attappadi to rear goats and sheep as a subsidiary occupation. Breeding and multiplication works have to be continued here. The kids born in this farm would be distributed to the tribal families in selected hamlets. Tribes will be preferred for the employment as shepherds, herdsman laborer etc.
The farm has been established as per G.O. (Rt) No. 1100/89/A.D. dated 20-6-1989 with a view to
1. Produce and supply good quality kids for meat purpose.
2. Improve economic traits of the local goat population.
3. Function as foundation seed distribution farm.
4. Function as demonstration cum instructional farm and to generate interest among farmers to take up goat rearing as a profitable business.

Goat Farm, Kommeri, Kannur District

This farm was established in 1965. Now this farm is functioning under Jilla Panchayat, Kannur. The farm is functioning as a farm to produce good quality Malabari goats.
The total area of this farm is 5.57 Hectares. An area of 0.25 Hectares is under fodder cultivation. The main aims of the farm are to take up selective cross breeding of different breeds of goats and propagating the best suited breed to the agro-climatic conditions prevailing in the state.
Goat Farm, Parassuvackal, Parassala, Thiruvanathapuram District
This farm started functioning on 8th June of 2002 as per G.O. (M.S.) No. 126/97/A.D of 1997. The objectives of the farm are to preserve, rear and propagate Malabari Goats and thus stimulate farmers to take up goat rearing as a source of income for livelihood and also to supply good quality fodder to farmers on nominal rate. This farm has a total area of 5 acres, out of which 4 acres are utilizing for fodder cultivation. livelihood and also to supply good quality fodder to farmers on nominal rate. This farm has a total area of 5 acres, out of which 4 acres are utilizing for fodder cultivation.
Besides these, three goat-rearing units are also functioning under this department at
(1) District Livestock Farm, Kudappanakkunnu, Thiruvananthapuram: 74 goats were produced in the farm during 2004-05. At the end of the year there were 64 goats in stock.
(2) Jersey Farm, Vithura, Thiruvananthapuram: During 2004-05 47 goats were produced and there were 61 number of animals in stock at the end of the year in this farm.
(3) Buffalo Breeding Farm, Kuriottumala, Kollam: 56 goats and 169.2 litres of goat milk were produced in this farm during 2004-05.

Pig breeding Schemes

The objective of piggery development activities in the state are popularization of pig rearing among farmers raising improved varieties of pigs and making available adequate number of piglings for distribution under various schemes, producing and supplying good quality pork etc.. These activities are conducted under the guidance and co-ordination of the Swine Husbandry office functioning at Aluva.
There are six pig breeding units and a pig-breeding farm at Kappad near Kanjirappally of Kottayam district. Besides these, a pig-breeding unit is functioning in the District Livestock Farm, Kudappanakunnu of Thiruvananthapuram District. These institutions function as demonstration centers and impart scientific training on pig rearing to farmers. The Swine Husbandry Office provides technical guidance to the officers in charge of pig breeding units.

Pig Breeding Units

1. Pig Breeding Unit, Mundayad, Kannur
This unit was established in 1982. The main objective of this pig-breeding unit, which is functioning along with the regional poultry farm, Mundayad is to produce high quality piglets rear upto weaning stage and distribute to the public as per demand.
2. Pig Breeding Unit, Angamaly, Eranakulam
This unit was established in the year 1966 along with Veterinary Hospital, Angamaly This unit is functioning with the objective of maintaining breeding stock and distribution of good quality pig lings.
3. Pig Breeding Unit, Thalayolaparampu, Kottayam
Year of establishment of this unit is 1963. The major objectives of the farm are (1) distribution of crossbred piglets to farmers of Kottayam and nearby districts (2) distribution of piglets to departmental projects (3) demonstration and training to farmers. The total area of the unit is 0.6 hectares.
4. Pig Breeding Unit, Kunnamkulam, Trissur
The main objectives of this unit are (a) to distribute highly pedigreed pig lings to the farmers for breeding and fattening purpose (b) to give training for farmers, veterinary surgeons and livestock inspectors (c) to conduct group discussion to farmers about breeding aspects and to control infectious diseases.
5. Pig Breeding Unit, Kolani, Idukki
The main objective of this unit is production and distribution of good quality piglets to public and Government schemes. This unit is attached to District Poultry Farm, Kolani, Idukki
6. Pig Breeding Unit, Parassala, Thiruvananthpuram
This pig breeding unit was established in 1964. Area of this unit is 0.22 Hectares. Following are the main objectives of this unit: (a) supply of good healthy piglets to farmers for breeding and fattening purpose (b) imparting training to BVSc. & AH students and livestock inspector trainees (c) conduct group discussion regarding pig farming (d) demonstration of various farm activities to farmers (e) extension services.
7.Pig breeding Farm, Kappad, Kanjirappally

This farm was established on 24th of November 1989. The capacity of the farm is sufficient to maintain100 female and 10 male parent stock. This farm has an area of 4.18 Hectares. The main objectives of the farm is to supply good quality piglets to farmers of Kottayam, Idukki, Pathanamthitta and Alappuzha districts.

Poultry Development Programmes

The Poultry Development Schemes in the state aims at increasing the egg production; and distribution of chicks and good quality poultry meat; imparting training on scientific poultry rearing and management; encouraging unemployed youth and members of weaker sections of society to take up poultry rearing and gain self employment; assisting women to start backyard poultry unit etc. There are seven regional poultry farms, two district poultry farms, one duck farm, one turkey farm, one central hatchery, one quail rearing unit and an intensive poultry development block under the department to carry out the development activities.

Regional poultry farms

1.Regional Poultry farm, Kudappanakkunnu, Thiruvananthapuram

The farm started in the year 1953 and was upgraded as regional poultry farm in 1965 with two poultry units at Kanjiramkulam and Ulloor. These poultry units are not functioning now. Rearing space of the farm is 22010 sq.ft. There are two hatch days for a week, Tuesday and Friday. The main objective of farm is to produce and distribute good quality commercial chicks to egger nursery beneficiaries of Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam districts. The farm also supplies incubated eggs of different stages to educational & research institutions like Institute of Animal Health and Veterinary Biologicals and Medical College for study and research purposes. Good quality chicks are supplying to farmers through Veterinary Hospitals. The farm has a hatchery with setter capacity 27,000 eggs and hatcher capacity 13,500 eggs. A feed mixing unit is also functioning here with a production capacity of 2.5 MT/hr.

2.Regional poultry farm, Kureeppuzha, Kollam

This farm was started in the year 1955 as a District Poultry farm and upgraded as regional poultry farm in 1982. The one and only Turkey farm is also functioning here. The farm started with a view to produce good quality turkey, fowl and eggs .The farm imparts training and technical knowledge on scientific rearing of turkey. The farm has a hatchery with a setter capacity of 13500 eggs and a hatcher capacity of 4500 eggs. Rearing space of the farm is 9838 sq.ft.

3.Regional poultry farm, Manarcaud, Kottayam.

This farm was also started as a district poultry farm in 1959 and upgraded as regional poultry Farm in 1982. The farm has a hatchery having setter capacity 27,000 eggs and hatcher capacity 9000 eggs. The main objective of the farm are (1) production of high quality hatchable eggs (2) supply of high yielding variety of chicks and (3) impart training to poultry farmers and other trainees.

4. Regional poultry farm, Koovappady, Ernakulam

This farm started as All India Poultry Development Unit and upgraded as District poultry farm in 1963 and then as regional poultry farm in 1967.
The farm has a hatchery with setter capacity 13500 eggs and hatcher capacity 4500 eggs. The farm is functioning with the production & distribution of good quality commercial layer chicks, day old chicks, hatching eggs and table eggs.

5. Regional poultry farm, Malampuzha, Palakkad

The farm started as district Poultry farm in 1960 was upgraded as the regional poultry farm in 1964. This farm started with a view to distribute good quality birds to the farmers and government institutions of Palakkad, Trissur and Malappuram districts. The farm equipped with a hatchery having setter capacity 13500 eggs and hatcher capacity 4500 eggs.

6. Regional poultry farm, Chathamangalam, Kozhikkode

This farm established in 1962 to rear layer birds. From 1982 onwards the farm is functioning as regional poultry farm. A Rabbit Rearing Unit is also functioning in this farm. The main objectives of the farm are
a) Production of good quality day old layer chicks suitable for backyard rearing
b) Production of hatching eggs of superior quality
c) Production of broiler rabbits and promotion of rabbit rearing
d) Production of quail chicks and eggs
The total farm rearing space is 15262.88 sq. ft. This farm also has a hatchery with a setter capacity of 13500 eggs and with a hatcher capacity of 4500 eggs.

7. Regional poultry farm, Mundayad, Kannur

Year of commencement of the farm is 1965. It is a major institution in Kannur district, which caters the needs of northern districts viz. Kannur, Kasaragod, Kozhikkode and Wayanad. A piggery unit is also functioning in this farm. The main objectives of the farm are to produce and distribute high yield day old chicks and its hatching eggs and also to produce and distribute high yield piglets at weaning age. This farm also has a hatchery with setter capacity 40500 eggs and hatcher capacity 18000 eggs. A feed mixing unit attached to this farm functioned upto1-2-2003 having a production capacity of 4
MT/ day.

District Poultry Farms

There is no production and disposal in these farms. Chicks received from other institutions are reared here and distributed for developmental schemes.

1. District poultry farm, Kolani, Idukki

This farm started functioning in 1976. A pig-breeding unit is also functioning here. Rearing of commercial chicks and its distribution to farmers and Government institutions is the main objective of this farm. The total area of the farm is 3.58 Ha.

2. District poultry farm, Athavanad, Malappuram

This farm started functioning in 1977 as a distribution farm. This farm is functioning with the aim of distributing good quality pullets to the public through various schemes. Total area of the farm is 9.85 Ha.

Central Hatchery, Chengannur, Alappuzha District

This institution was established in the year 1961-62 is under the direct control of head of the Department of Animal Husbandry. This institution supplies commercial layer chicks, table eggs, poultry, poultry equipments etc. according to the needs of the public.

The following are the institutions functioning here.

1. Hatchery The main aim of this hatchery is to produce good and high breed quality chicks. This has a setter capacity of 67500 egg and hatcher capacity of 31500 eggs.

2. Quail Rearing Unit This is functioning with a view to produce good quality quails.

3. Feed Compounding Factory: This was established in the year 1963. The objective of the factory is to manufacture ready to feed balanced feed, to be used in central Hatchery and other poultry institutions and also to sale to private sector poultry farms. During 2004-05, 10900 Kgm. of poultry feed was produced here.

4. Chick Sexing School: This was started in1967 with the objective of imparting training in chick sexing those who needed.

5. Mobile Veterinary Hospital: The major objective of this mobile hospital is to give treatment for the poultry of central hatchery. Besides this, the hospital gives treatment and medicine for other animals also.

6. Feed Testing Lab: The lab started functioning on 21-1-1978.The objective of this lab is to analyze the feed ingredients and various types of feed manufactured by the departmental institutions and there by ensure the quality of feed with reference to nutritive value.

7. Poultry Training Institute The poultry training institute was started functioning here in 1974 with a view to impart training in poultry breeding to unemployed youths, farmers and para veterinary officers. Training for livestock inspectors were also conducted here. Short term training programmes in backyard poultry rearing, broiler farming, quail farming, rabbit rearing etc. are conducted here.

7. Workshop: The objective of the workshop is the manufacturing and repairing of the poultry equipments for the departmental poultry farms.

Duck Farm,Niranam, Pathanamthitta

This farm started in 1966. The aim of the farm is to preserve different varieties and breeds of ducks, improve the quality of ducks reared for eggs and meat purpose and popularize duck farming.
Good quality ducklings are produced and distributed to the public according to the needs by this farm. Total area of the farm is 1 Ha. Total rearing space is 7500 sq.ft. The hatchery of the farm has a setter capacity of 27000 eggs and hatcher capacity of 9000 eggs.

Rabbit Rearing Programmes

Three rabbit rearing units are functioning in the state at
(1) District Livestock Farm, Kudappanakkunnu,Thiruvananthapuram
(2) Buffalo Breeding Farm,Kuriottumala, Kollam
(3) Regional Poultry Farm, Chathamangalam, Kozhikkode

The aims of these units are to preserve different varieties and breeds of rabbits, improve the quality of rabbits reared for meat purpose and popularize rabbit rearing. Newzeland white, Grey Giant, White Giant, Soviet Chinchilla, German Angora are different varieties of broiler rabbits rearing in these units. German Angora is a wool producing type.

In the rabbit-rearing unit of District Livestock Farm, Kudappanakkunnu 1076 rabbits were produced during the year 2004-05 and there were 303 animals in stock on 31st of March 2006. Rabbit rearing unit of the Buffalo breeding farm produced 400 rabbits during 2005-06 and 52 numbers were in stock on 31st March 2006.

Special Livestock Breeding Programme

Livestock rearing - the major occupation of the rural farmers are owned by the weaker sections of the society.

For augmenting milk production, crossbreeding and grading of cattle was done even in early 1950’s. As a result of continuous effort made by the department, substantial, increase in production was achieved. Further increase in production can be achieved only by better management practices. For achieving this target, age of attaining puberty, age of first conception and age of first calving have to be brought down. Adequate management, feeding with adequate quantity of a good quality feed and health cover including prevention against common contagious diseases and insurance coverage against loss due to unforeseen reasons are the basic requirements in achieving this goal.

Taking these into consideration SLBP was implemented by the Animal Husbandry department in 1976.
From 1997-98 onwards the scheme was implemented through District Panchayat with the technical support and financial support provided by the Animal Husbandry Department. Now the scheme is implemented through Grama Panchayat, as per GO (MS) No.11/2001/AD. dated 20-1-2001.

The programme is implemented in all of the fourteen districts, with active participation of the Milk producers Co- operative Societies.

The objective of the scheme is to provide extension support, adequate health and insurance coverage and good quality feed at subsidized price to the growing crossbred female calf belonging to poverty line farmers for a period of 28 months or till its first calving whichever is early. The farmers included under the scheme are eligible to get a maximum subsidy of Rs. 6500/-. 50% of the subsidy will be given by the Animal Husbandry Department and the balance 50% by the concerned grama panchayat.

The implementation of the scheme is being technically controlled and supervised by the Additional Director (AH)

Extension & Training Programmes

With a view to imparting technical know-how and scientific training in Animal Husbandry discipline, four Livestock Management Training Centers were established in the state.

1. Livestock Management Training Centre, Kudappanakkunnu, Thiruvananthapuram

This centre is functioning under the supervision of a Principal Training Officer in the cadre of Joint Director.

2. Livestock Management Training Centre, Aluva, Ernakulam

This has been started in1986 as per GO (Rt) No.1286/85 dated 22-5-1985. This is functioning under the guidance of a Deputy Director.

3. Livestock Management Training Centre, Mundayad, Kannur

This has been started in the year1984 as per GO (Rt) No. 1456/84/AD dated 6-8-1984 and is functioning under the control of Principal Training officer in the cadre of a Joint Director.

4. Livestock Management Training Centre, Malampuzha, Palakkad

These centers
1. impart training to farmers on scientific management of production units to enhance production
2. impart training to women to prepare themselves to take up small domestic units of livestock and poultry of manageable size to supplement family income
3. provide technical knowledge and relevant information on various schemes implemented in the Animal Husbandry sector with a view to uplift the weaker sections of the society
4. help the unemployed youth to gain self employment.

The training offered in these centers are

1. Dairy Farming
2. Goat Farming
3. Duck farming
4. Pig Farming
5. Broiler Production
6. Layer Management
7. Backyard Poultry Production
8. Quail farming
9. Chick Sexing

The trainees include farmers, social workers, ex-servicemen, school students, housewives, extension workers and people belonging to SC/ST communities. Training to veterinary and para-veterinary staff of the Department, training to Vocational Higher Secondary Course Certificate holders and 11 month training to fresh Livestock Inspectors are also conducted.

Various extension activities carried out through the Department are:
1. preventive inoculation to livestock & poultry are carried out free of cost through the network of Departmental Institutions of the state.
2. prophylactic vaccination against rabies in dogs
3. goreksha camps are conducted to identify and to give support to the elite cows in rural areas.
4. infertility camps and systematic follow up are conducted to reduce the economic loss in dairy cattle rearing
5. livestock shows, calf rallies, seminars, group discussion, film shows, AIR programmes and T.V. progammes etc., are being carried out regularly to motivate and educate the farmers.

Inspection and certification of Livestock and Marine Products

Livestock & Marine Products Inspection Cum Certification Laboratory, Ernakulam

The Livestock and Marine Products Inspection Cum Certification Laboratory was established in the year 1983 vide G.O. Rt. 2084/82/dt, 5-8-1982 with the objectives.

1. to enforce quality control of Meat and Marine Products exported from different parts of Kerala.
2. to provide advisory service on hygiene and sanitation to various processing units all over Kerala.

The laboratory is conducting physical and sensory tests and also tests for assessing permissible level of bacteria and other pathogens so that a Health/Veterinary Certificate is issued for meat and marine products meant for export. Samples are brought and also collected from various processing units for tests and the laboratory also provides technical advice on hygiene and sanitation by personal visits to various processing units.

The modern seafood and meat industry is very much technologically advanced and sophisticated; simultaneously the perception of quality has also changed. In the efforts to satisfy the customer, there has been a constant search for suitable methods to ensure the quality of seafood and meat products. The increasing number of food poisoning in seafood is an important factor, produced by microorganisms at various stages of food processing. Planning commission approved the project for modernization of the laboratory and provided Rs. 300 lakhs by order No. Vide G.O. (MS) Bi, 156/03/AD dated 17-10-2003.

The Government has allotted the Dormitory building of the AUWM (Agricultural Urban Wholesale Market) Maradu on lease for a period of 2 years as per G.O. (Rt) No.1710/04/AD of Agriculture (PPM Cell) Dept.dt. 1-11-2004 and appointed GIFT as the technical consultants as per G.O. (MS) No.22/05/AD/Thiruvananthapuram dt.10-2-05. The CPWD has already been appointed for the construction of the new building and for that 50 cents of land is to be obtained from the AUWM and orders are awaited from the Govt.

IT development of the Animal Husbandry Department

A large volume of data is being collected in the Animal Husbandry sector. In order to have sound database, the department had developed Unix based software in co-operation with National informatics Centre in 1994, which was a Management Information System for monitoring and evaluating the performance of various Animal Husbandry Programmes. Since this software was inadequate to cover all the activities of the department, the NIC was entrusted with the task of developing a new Web based Software on Windows platform to cover all the activities of the department. New web based software named “AHEAD” has already been developed by NIC, Thiruvananthapuram, the trial run of which is scheduled to be commenced soon.