January 21, 2021: Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir, Prof. Mushtaq Ahmad inaugurated 3-days Awareness-cum-Sensitization program on Avian Influenza and Pandemic Preparedness at Faculty Outreach Centre, Shuhama Alusteng. The Program is being conducted by Directorate of Extension, SKUAST-Kashmir/SAMETI-Kashmir for officers of Animal Husbandry Department, Kashmir. Prof. Ahmad in his inaugural address highlighted the importance of such programs in view of occurrence of bird flu outbreaks in eleven neighbouring States/UTs of Jammu & Kashmir, and need of coordinated efforts by all concerned departments for pandemic preparedness. He took stock of the level of diagnostic facilities available in the University vis-à-vis Avian Influenza virus. He also emphasized on strengthening public awareness regarding safe consumption of poultry meat and eggs. Prof M A Paul, Dean FVSc & AH, stressed on the importance of safe handling and processing of chicken and chicken products, and requested the participants/and poultry entrepreneurs not to panic but to follow adequate bio-security measures. Dr Masood S Mir, ADE (Animal Sciences) presented brief overview of the program. Dr Abdul Hai, Incharge Faculty Outreach Centre briefed the audience about extension activities of the unit. Dr Aijaz A Dar, Assistant Professor, Directorate of Extension presented the welcome address. Dr Rusheeba Manzoor, Dy Director SAMETI presented the vote of thanks.
Sd/
(Aijaz A Dar)
