Mysuru district is grappling with a critical shortage of veterinarians and support staff, severely affecting livestock care services. Against the sanctioned strength of 139 veterinary posts, only 112 are currently filled, placing immense pressure on existing personnel. The district houses an estimated livestock population of 9.5 lakh, which amplifies the demand for veterinary services.
Impact on Livestock Healthcare
Officials and farmers have reported that the staff shortage has hampered timely treatment, disease monitoring, and animal healthcare programs. Livestock owners have urged authorities to fill vacant positions and bolster veterinary infrastructure. Experts emphasize that adequate staffing is crucial for maintaining animal health, supporting rural livelihoods, and enhancing productivity in the livestock sector.
Current Staffing Status
Mysuru district operates 205 veterinary hospitals and clinics spread across nine taluks. As per norms, one veterinary doctor is required for every 5,000 livestock, but the scarcity has severely compromised service delivery. Among the sanctioned 139 veterinarian posts, 112 are currently working, including 10 appointed on an outsourcing basis. The department faces a shortage of 27 veterinarians.
The last livestock census recorded a population of 9,33,298 animals, comprising 4,92,589 cattle, 21,682 buffaloes, 2,03,643 sheep, and 2,08,206 goats.
Shortage of Support Staff
In addition to veterinarians, the district is short of 168 D Group staff, including technical staff, drivers, attenders, and veterinary inspectors. Driver positions have remained vacant for many years in the veterinary department.
Deputy Director of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences Dr. C. Nagaraju stated that the department is managing the situation by utilizing existing veterinarians and outsourcing staff to ensure no disruption to farmers. He highlighted the successful vaccination drive against lumpy skin disease, foot and mouth disease, and other ailments.
Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha and Hasiru Sene Vice-President Kiragasur Shankar urged the government to urgently recruit veterinary staff, noting that agriculture and dairy farming are the mainstays for farmers and depend on healthy livestock.
