Kollam, Kerala – In a big step towards improving animal healthcare access, veterinary services will now be available at the doorstep of farmers and pet owners in Kollam district. All they need to do is dial the toll-free helpline 1962, announced Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development Minister J. Chinchurani on Thursday.
The announcement was made during the launch event for mobile veterinary and surgery units held at the District Veterinary Centre. These mobile units are part of a state-wide initiative to offer on-call animal treatment services, especially in rural and remote areas where veterinary facilities may be limited.
Where Will the Services Operate?
- Mobile veterinary units will start operating in Ithikkara, Kottarakkara, and Chavara blocks.
- A mobile surgery unit will be based at the District Veterinary Centre in Kollam.
- The units will function overnight, from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m., offering treatment during hours when regular clinics are closed.
Each vehicle is staffed with qualified veterinary doctors and trained driver-cum-attendants who can assist in both treatment and minor procedures. These staff members have already been selected and are ready to be deployed.
Unit Locations & Base Hospitals
- The Chavara unit will operate from Arinallur Veterinary Hospital.
- The Ithikkara unit will be stationed at Chathannoor Veterinary Hospital.
- The Kottarakkara unit will be based at the Kuzhikkad Veterinary Dispensary.
These mobile clinics join the two already functioning units in Chadayamangalam and Anchal blocks.
Easy Payments Through QR Codes
To make services accessible and efficient, farmers can make payments for treatment by simply scanning a QR code displayed on the mobile unit—an easy and cashless way to settle bills.
Plans for Expansion and Support
Minister Chinchurani emphasized that a new surgical unit will also be established at the District Veterinary Centre, enhancing the region’s capacity to handle more serious cases and animal surgeries.
She also appealed to the block panchayats to use their local development funds to purchase and supply medicines to further support the initiative. “If local bodies step in, it would be a huge relief for livestock owners,” she added.
Leaders and Officials Present at the Launch
The inauguration event was presided over by District Panchayat President P.K. Gopan, and attended by several dignitaries, including:
- MLA Sujith Vijayan Pillai
- Chavara Block Panchayat President Santhosh Thuppassery
- Kottarakkara Block Panchayat President A. Abhilash
- Dr. D. Shine Kumar, Principal Training Officer of the Animal Husbandry Department
