In Gadag district, farmers face a dual challenge as their cattle suffer from dehydration and other summer-related illnesses while grappling with an acute shortage of veterinary doctors in government vet hospitals across rural and taluk areas. The dearth of veterinary care facilities compels farmers to travel long distances to Gadag for treatment, exacerbating their plight.
With temperatures soaring to 40 degrees Celsius for the past two weeks, farmers are witnessing a surge in cases of dehydration and foot-and-mouth disease among their cattle. In the absence of veterinary assistance, many farmers resort to traditional treatment methods, such as applying baking soda and ensuring access to clean drinking water.
This crisis comes at a critical juncture for farmers, who have completed agricultural preparations and are ready to commence ploughing with the assistance of their cattle. However, the weakened condition of the cattle due to dehydration poses a significant obstacle to farming activities.
The shortage of veterinary doctors has persisted for the past four years, leaving rural communities underserved and unable to access timely medical assistance for their livestock. While some farmers can manage minor illnesses independently, they are compelled to seek treatment at the district hospital in Gadag for more serious cases.
The situation underscores the urgent need for government intervention to address the shortage of veterinary doctors and ensure adequate healthcare access for farmers and their livestock in rural areas of Gadag district.
