The Odisha state government has announced the waiver of user fees for the treatment and vaccination of livestock.
This initiative, effective from 1 March 2025, aims to ensure the protection and well-being of cows, bulls, buffaloes, goats, and sheep by providing free veterinary care.
The waiver, approved by Minister Gokulananda Mallick of the Fisheries & Animal Resources Development (F&ARD) department, comes in response to repeated public requests. Previously, user fees ranged from Rs 1 to Rs 100 for various treatments and services. However, with this new decision, farmers will no longer have to pay for treatment, vaccination, and mobile services for their livestock.
The announcement was formalized with a notification issued by Shri Suresh Kumar Vashishth, Principal Secretary, F&ARD. This decision is expected to have a positive impact on the welfare of livestock and provide much-needed support to farmers across the state. The state government has emphasized that the free treatment and protection of livestock is a top priority.