Tripura’s animal husbandry sector has been grappling with a severe outbreak of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) that has claimed the lives of 126 cattle since 2022. State Animal Resources Development (ARD) Minister Sudhangshu Das confirmed the alarming numbers during a recent press briefing, highlighting the devastating impact of the disease on livestock and the efforts being made to contain its spread.
Understanding Lumpy Skin Disease
Lumpy Skin Disease, caused by a virus in the Poxviridae family, primarily affects cattle. It spreads through vectors such as flies, mosquitoes, and ticks, as well as through direct contact between infected and healthy animals. LSD is characterized by fever, nodular skin lesions, reduced milk production, and, in severe cases, death.
“LSD has emerged as a significant challenge for cattle farmers in Tripura,” said Minister Das. “The disease not only leads to the loss of valuable livestock but also disrupts livelihoods dependent on dairy and farming.”
Extent of the Outbreak
Since the outbreak was first detected in 2022, the disease has spread across multiple districts in the state, affecting over 2,500 cattle. Among these, 126 fatalities have been reported, primarily in areas where veterinary facilities and awareness are limited.
Minister Das noted that the virus’s rapid transmission has been exacerbated by the state’s tropical climate and dense livestock populations. “The situation demands coordinated efforts from the government, veterinary experts, and local communities to control the outbreak,” he added.
Government Measures to Combat LSD
To mitigate the crisis, the state government has implemented a range of measures, including vaccination drives, awareness campaigns, and enhanced veterinary services. According to Minister Das, over 80% of the cattle population in affected areas have been vaccinated against LSD. The government is also distributing insect repellents and advising farmers on biosecurity practices to minimize the risk of transmission.
“We have ramped up our response by deploying additional veterinary teams to the worst-hit districts,” said the ARD Minister. “Efforts are being made to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment for infected animals.”
Impact on Farmers and the Dairy Industry
The outbreak has taken a heavy toll on cattle farmers, many of whom rely on livestock as their primary source of income. Reduced milk production due to LSD has led to financial losses for dairy farmers, while the death of cattle has further compounded their woes.
“I lost three cows to this disease, and the remaining ones have drastically reduced milk output,” lamented a farmer from Sepahijala district. “The government’s support has been helpful, but the losses are overwhelming.”
Minister Das acknowledged the economic challenges faced by farmers and assured them of financial assistance. “Compensation is being provided to farmers who have lost their cattle, and we are working on long-term measures to strengthen the resilience of the livestock sector,” he said.
Challenges in Controlling the Outbreak
Despite the government’s efforts, several challenges persist in curbing the spread of LSD. Limited awareness among farmers about the disease and its prevention remains a significant hurdle. Additionally, the shortage of trained veterinary personnel in remote areas has hindered timely intervention.
Experts have also pointed out the need for more robust infrastructure for vaccine storage and distribution. “Cold chain facilities are critical for maintaining the efficacy of vaccines, and their unavailability in certain regions poses a risk,” said a senior veterinary officer.
National Context and Lessons Learned
Tripura’s LSD outbreak is part of a larger pattern observed across India, where the disease has affected millions of cattle in recent years. The central government has launched initiatives to support states in managing the disease, including the development of indigenous vaccines and training programs for veterinary professionals.
Minister Das emphasized the importance of learning from other states’ experiences to improve Tripura’s response. “Collaboration with central agencies and neighboring states is crucial for adopting best practices and ensuring the health of our livestock,” he said.
Looking Ahead
As the state continues its battle against Lumpy Skin Disease, the focus remains on preventing further fatalities and minimizing economic losses. Increased investment in veterinary infrastructure, farmer education, and research on disease management are likely to play a pivotal role in achieving these goals.
“The fight against LSD is far from over, but with sustained efforts and community cooperation, we are confident of overcoming this challenge,” Minister Das concluded.
The outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of the livestock sector to emerging diseases and underscores the need for a proactive approach to animal health and welfare.
