Minister for Agriculture Production department, Javid Ahmad Dar, today informed the House that around 1200 gazetted and non-gazetted posts in the department have been referred to Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) and Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB) for timely filling up of vacancies.
Replying to a question raised by MLA Gulabgarh Khurshied Ahmed, the Minister stated that 17 Veterinary Centres and 21 Sheep Extension Centres are presently functional in the Gulabgarh Constituency. He added that among these, two centres are being managed through internal arrangements to ensure uninterrupted veterinary services to the livestock breeders. He said that these centres collectively cater to the healthcare needs of the livestock population in the constituency.
The Minister further informed the House that there is presently no proposal to establish new Veterinary or Sheep Extension Centres in Gulabgarh Constituency or elsewhere in the Union Territory. He explained that establishment of new centres is considered based on several parameters like livestock population, geographical conditions (hilly, plain, or isolated areas), distance from existing centres and techno-feasibility reports submitted. He added that the proposals are processed further only if they meet feasibility criteria and availability of resources.
Highlighting measures to support migratory livestock breeders, the Minister said that the department regularly organizes Summer Camps at highland pastures including Dudhwan (Warwan), Kousarnag (Kulgam), Thatbal (Gulabgarh), Chandrani (Ramban) and Nikan (Mangnar, Gulabgarh). He added that these camps provide essential veterinary healthcare services to the sheep and goat breeders during the grazing season.
Responding to the supplementary questions regarding vacant posts, establishment of additional centres and deployment of veterinary doctors and staff during migration periods, the Minister assured the House that adequate staff arrangements are made during the migration season and all genuine demands and issues raised by the Member will be addressed in a timely manner.