Himachal Launches ‘Pashu Mitra Policy-2025’ to Deliver Livestock Care at Doorsteps. 

1,000 Youth to Be Trained and Appointed as Community-Based Animal Caregivers in Rural Areas. 

Shimla:

In a landmark move to boost veterinary healthcare access and encourage local participation in the animal husbandry sector, the Himachal Pradesh Government has launched the ‘Pashu Mitra Policy-2025’, under which 1,000 youth from rural areas will be trained and deployed as ‘Pashu Mitras’ — community-based animal caregivers who will provide doorstep services for livestock care.

This innovative scheme, rolled out under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Singh Sukhu, is aimed at addressing the instant health needs of livestock, especially in regions where formal veterinary infrastructure is far from villages.

Bridging the Gap Between Farmers and Veterinary Services

A spokesperson from the Animal Husbandry Department explained that the ‘Pashu Mitras’ will act as first responders for animal health issues and serve as a vital link between local farmers and veterinarians. “They will be available in the community and extend help whenever required, ensuring that animals receive timely attention,” the spokesperson said.

He emphasized that this initiative is not only about healthcare but also about reviving traditional, community-driven livestock management practices. By engaging locals in animal welfare, the policy ensures decentralized and participatory animal husbandry, while simultaneously offering local employment opportunities.

Key Features of the Pashu Mitra Policy-2025:

• 1,000 Pashu Mitras to be trained and engaged in the first phase.
• Each Pashu Mitra will be appointed in their own village or locality and will not be transferred.
• They will be paid an honorarium of Rs. 5,000 per month for working four hours a day.
• Duties include:
  • Lifting and transporting Liquid Nitrogen Containers for breeding services.
  • Handling large animals like cows, buffaloes, horses, and mules.
  • Distributing cattle feed under the Pregnancy Ration Scheme.
  • Providing first aid, vaccinations, and doorstep animal care services.
  • Educating farmers on animal health, hygiene, and managing man-animal conflicts and stray cattle.

Physical Fitness and Engagement Process

Applicants will be required to clear a physical fitness test, which includes running 100 meters in under one minute while carrying 25 kg of weight. They must also be residents of the Gram Panchayat or Urban Local Body under the jurisdiction of the concerned veterinary institution.

Engagement will be managed by a Pashu Mitra Engagement Committee (PMEC) comprising:

• Sub-Divisional Officer (Chairperson)
• Senior Veterinary Officer (Member Secretary)
• Concerned Veterinary Officer (Member)

These officials will oversee selection, field visits, and ensure alignment with institutional needs.

Working Conditions and Benefits

• Pashu Mitras will submit monthly attendance through their veterinary institution.
• They are entitled to one leave day per month, up to 12 days annually.
• Gazetted holidays and Sundays will also be observed.
• Female Pashu Mitras with fewer than two surviving children will be eligible for:
  • 180 days maternity leave
  • 45 days leave in case of miscarriage or abortion, regardless of the number of children.

Empowering Communities and Strengthening Rural Livelihoods

The policy not only reflects administrative efficiency but also compassion for animals and community engagement. “The Pashu Mitras will not just be workers; they will be ambassadors of animal welfare, health, and rural empowerment,” the spokesperson stated.

This initiative is expected to revolutionize veterinary service delivery in remote areas and ensure that livestock—an integral part of rural economy and culture—receive care, attention, and timely treatment, right at the doorsteps of the people.

With this forward-thinking policy, Himachal Pradesh once again takes the lead in blending employment generation, rural development, and animal welfare into a single, impactful initiative.

Quick Highlights: Pashu Mitra Policy-2025

•  1,000 Youth to be trained and appointed
•  Rs. 5,000/month honorarium
•  Doorstep livestock care in rural areas
•  Community engagement + employment
•  Focus on animal welfare and breed improvement
•  Maternity leave and holidays for female workers.