A-HELP programme launched in Tripura; 300 Pashu Sakhis to be trained

Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha on Thursday launched 'A-HELP' (Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of Livestock Production) program here at Agartala Pragna Bhavan in an event and distributed specialized A-HELP Kits to at least 300 Pashu Sakhis, who will be trained and will be accredited as A-HELP.

During the event, the Chief Minister mentioned that A HELP program will establish a vital link between the livestock farmers and the Department.

He further added that this initiative is a significant step in promoting livestock health, extension services, and women empowerment, potentially leading to improved livestock productivity and rural development.

The event was organized under the initiative of the Animal Resource Development Department in collaboration with the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that the animal resources play a significant role in the economic growth of the state. In addition to strengthening the rural economy, livestock rearing and maintenance is very necessary to make livestock farmers self-sufficient in essential food items like eggs and milk, he added.

The members of self-help groups who are engaged as Pashu Sakhis in this A-Help program will act as accredited representatives in providing basic animal health services. Trained veterinarians will play an important role in protecting livestock in remote areas where animal health workers face difficulty in reaching them, he said.

On the occasion, the Animal Resource Development Minister Sudhangshu Das said at least 300 Pashu Sakhis will be given 16-day training under the A-Help programme. After the training they will be given the kit, he added.

The A-Help programme will generate employment opportunities beside protection of animal health, he said, adding that the main objective of the government is to accelerate the economic development of the state by making women self-reliant.