'Steps to be taken to conserve Amrit Mahal Breed Conservation Centre'

Animal Husbandry Minister A Manju said that measures will be taken to protect and conserve Amrit Mahal Breed Conservation Centre.

He was speaking after inspecting Amrit Mahal Breed Conservation Centre in Ajjampura on Wednesday.

The minister expressed displeasure at the mismanagement at the centre. He took the engineer to task for not providing water and for not maintaining the weighing machine, silage preparation machine, tractors, untidy sheds and weeds in the kaval land. If the animals are not given food and water, then those concerned will have to face the wrath of God, he said.

The minister said that Rs two crore has been provided for the maintenance of 1,400 cattle but the funds are not utilised.

Two officers have been suspended for discrepancy of duties, a few days ago. If the officials continue to neglect, stern action will be initiated, he said.

To a query, he said that the recruitment of 651 veterinary doctors are in progress. The other vacant posts, including ‘D’ group, will be filled in a due course.

The 795 acre land belonging to the Ajjampur centre will be protected by fencing. Water from Parvatarayana Kere will be utilised to grow fodder on 100 acre land.

Order has been made to prepare silage for cattle, which is to be used for fodder during off-season.

He said he will hold a discussion with the chief minister on establishing an authority for Amrit Mahal Breed Conservation. Request will be made to provide more grants for the centre in the budget.

Animal Husbandry department commissioner Shekhar, joint director Halagappa, deputy director in-charge Veerabhadrappa and others were present.