Livestock from other states must be tagged before entry into Sambhajinagar district: Collector

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Collector Dileep Swami has mandated that all livestock entering the district from other states must be tagged and registered before entry, stressing that the measure was vital for ensuring transparency in the trade of animals and maintaining accurate ownership records.The Sambhajinagar collector said under existing govt rules, livestock owned by farmers or individuals involved in animal husbandry must be tagged and officially linked to the owner. "Tagging is essential for traceability, transparency in transactions and the maintenance of proper records, which play a crucial role in disease control and overall administration," he said.Swami raised concerns over the rising influx of untagged livestock from neighbouring states, saying the lack of proper identification often resulted in irregular trade practices and hampered authorities' ability to verify ownership or track animal movement. To address this, he told the animal husbandry department, police and transport officials to jointly conduct checks on livestock entering and moving within the district."The collector has issued directions to inspect tagging during transportation and at livestock markets. Animals like cows, bulls, goats and buffaloes will be checked for identification tags or ear markings. Traders have also been asked to carry written documents detailing the tagged animals they bring for sale," an official said.Swami said strict adherence to tagging norms would streamline livestock trade, helping prevent disputes and illegal transactions. He warned that action would be taken against those transporting untagged or undocumented animals.With summer approaching, the collector has also instructed the animal husbandry department to take preventive steps to protect livestock from heatstroke, including timely vaccinations, sufficient fodder and proper water arrangements. He further directed the officials to raise awareness among farmers about heat-related precautions.Swami has set a target for completing the district's livestock vaccination drive by March 29. District deputy commissioner of animal husbandry, Nanasaheb Kadam, said, "At least 57% of the target under the foot-and-mouth disease prevention campaign has been achieved so far. Efforts are underway to meet the deadline."