Question : NEW CASTLE DISEASE

(a) whether outbreak of a number of cattle diseases including Newcastle (Ranikhet) has been reported in the country during the last three and the current year;

(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise;

(c) the preventive measures, taken by the Government to control and to provide treatment for such diseases including Newcastle in the country;

(d) whether the Government has formulated any scheme to provide free treatment to animals of poor farmers in the country; and

(e) if so, the details thereof, State- wise?

MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE, CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (PROF. K.V. THOMAS)

(a & b) A number of cattle diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), Haemorrhagic Septicemia (HS), Black Quarter (BQ) and Anthrax, including Newcastle disease in poultry have been reported in the country. The State-wise details of outbreaks in the last three years and in the current year (till June, 2009) are annexed.

(c) In order to prevent and control animal diseases, Government of India supplements efforts of State Governments by providing grants-in-aid through a Centrally Sponsored Scheme `Livestock Health and Disease Control`. Funds are, inter alia, provided for vaccination/immunization against various diseases, including the Newcastle disease.

(d & e) The Government of India does not have a specific scheme for free treatment of animals belonging to poor farmers.