Minister for Animal, Sheep Husbandry and Fisheries, Abdul Ghani Kohli Thursday said that several measures are afoot for the socio-economic uplift of nomadic populace living in the state.This was stated by the Minister while interacting with the deputation led by former MLC Choudhary Nizamu-Din Khatana who called him here today.Several other deputations of nomadic people from Samba, Reasi, Rajouri, Poonch, Ramban and Kalakote also called on the Minister and apprised him about the problems during their seasonal migration to higher reaches of Kashmir Valley during summer.Kohli directed the Director, Animal Husbandry Jammu to authorize concerned Veterinary Assistant Surgeons (VASs) to issue requisite certificates duly countersigned by the concerned Chief Animal Husbandry Officers (CAHOs) among the nomads for granting permission to migrate their livestock on easy basis so that the nomadic population cannot suffer during their migration of livestock.
He further said that the government is abreast with the issues being faced by Gujjar and Bakerwals who arrive in the meadows of Kashmir and parts of Ladakh.Responding to the demands put forth by the nomads, Kohli said their genuine demands will be looked into and taken up for their time bound redressal. He said the government has already established migrant mobile schools for people of these tribes.He said the seasonal shifting of homes ensures a regular flow of income for the families and added that it is the biggest impediment for those who want to ensure formal education for their children.The Minister said he would take up the issue of insurance for nomadic livestock and said measures are on to provide improved medical facilities to nomadic people and their livestock as well.Director Animal Husbandry Jammu and Chief Animal Husbandry officer Jammu were present on the occasion.