Dr. Iftikhar Hussain, Director of the Sheep Husbandry Department, UT Ladakh, along with District Sheep Husbandry Officer Kargil, Dr. Niyazul Hasnain, made his maiden visit to the sub-division of Drass on September 25. The visit aimed to assess ongoing projects, address local grievances, and strategize for the revival of livestock farming in the region.

During his visit, Dr. Iftikhar inspected various ongoing infrastructural projects and reviewed departmental records and field performance. He instructed the staff to maintain proper records and emphasized the need for a robust plan to revitalize livestock farming in the area, which had been adversely affected following the Kargil war.

The Director met with public representatives and breeders from the Drass sector, listening attentively to their concerns and assuring them of the department's full support. He stressed the importance of formulating income-generating schemes and improving livestock husbandry to enhance local livelihoods and promote sustainable development.

In a subsequent meeting with the officers and officials of the Sheep Husbandry Department in Drass, the Director issued instructions for the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to monitor migratory flocks, aiming to prevent the transmission of diseases to local livestock. Additionally, he discussed key departmental issues with army authorities, particularly regarding the development of fodder and pasturelands.

The discussions also encompassed the rearing of pashmina goats for the production of the world’s finest fiber, optimizing the use of lush green pastures, improving the performance of Merino sheep, and ensuring the efficient utilization of wool resources.