Shri Naresh Pal Gangwar, Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), Government of India, visited the Central Poultry Development Organisation (Western Region), Goregaon, Mumbai, today. Dr. Muthukumarasamy B., Joint Secretary, DAHD, and other senior officials of the Department were also present during the visit.

Shri Gangwar reviewed the functioning of CPDO (Western Region), including breeding, hatching, rearing and training activities, and inspected the hatchery, brooder houses, parent stock, feed plant and training facilities. The implementation of the National Livestock Mission (NLM) and other poultry development schemes was also reviewed. The Secretary emphasised the promotion of low-input technology birds, conservation of indigenous poultry germplasm, strengthening of biosecurity measures and modernisation of poultry infrastructure. Shri Gangwar directed that farmer-oriented training and the supply of quality chicks be further strengthened and appreciated the efforts of the CPDO team.

The Secretary interacted with poultry entrepreneurs trained at CPDO, Mumbai. The entrepreneurs shared their success stories and experiences, highlighting the contribution of CPDO’s training programmes towards entrepreneurship development in the poultry sector. Poultry management books in Hindi and Marathi were launched to promote access to technical knowledge and poultry-related learning in regional languages. Successful trainee students of CPDO, Mumbai, were felicitated for their achievements and inspiring success stories.

As part of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative, the dignitaries planted saplings, reaffirming their commitment towards environmental sustainability and a greener future. The dignitaries also visited the Poultry Gallery and held detailed discussions with officials of the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) regarding the redevelopment of CPDO, Mumbai. The programme concluded with an interaction with final-year BVSc & AH students of Mumbai Veterinary College on opportunities, challenges and emerging prospects in the veterinary and poultry sectors.

The Secretary also visited the Animal Quarantine and Certification Services (AQCS), Mumbai, which plays a critical role in maintaining the country’s biosecurity by preventing the ingress of animal diseases through the import of live animals and animal products. Shri Gangwar reviewed the functioning of the station and took stock of the ongoing and proposed development activities aimed at strengthening its infrastructure and operational capabilities. The visit provided valuable guidance for the future upgradation of CPDO (Western Region), Mumbai, as a Centre of Excellence in poultry development, training and technology dissemination.

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