The Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, Andaman and Nicobar Administration, has launched a dedicated radio outreach programme through Akashvani to connect with livestock farmers in rural and remote areas. The programme, titled Pashu Paksi Aur Hum, broadcasts every Monday evening and is focused on improving animal health practices through expert guidance.
Designed around the theme Swasth Pashu, Samriddh Kisaan, the 30-minute programme features interactive call-in segments, seasonal advice, and expert talks. It aims to address the challenges of reaching farmers in geographically scattered areas where internet or print-based outreach may be limited.
So far, the series has aired several episodes and received active participation from farmers across the islands, particularly from South Andaman. Each episode attracts between three to five live calls from farmers seeking solutions to livestock issues, and a notable number of callers have been women, reflecting the growing interest in animal husbandry among female farmers.
The 12-part series focuses on topics such as disease prevention, breeding management, feed practices, and emerging technologies in the sector. Experts from the department use simple, regionally relevant language to make the content accessible. The radio initiative complements on-ground programmes and aims to fill knowledge gaps through regular, focused communication.
This outreach effort is aligned with the department’s goal to improve animal health outcomes and farmer productivity. With positive response and consistent engagement, the radio programme is expected to become a key component in the department’s long-term communication strategy.
