Veterinary services in Khanapur taluk are crippled due to an acute shortage of staff, leaving farmers helpless when their livestock need treatment. Out of 59 sanctioned posts across 15 primary veterinary clinics, only 24 staff are currently on duty.
Many clinics, including those in Godoli, Madigunji, Beedi and Parishwad, have shut their doors completely for lack of personnel. Farmers say they are unable to provide timely treatment to cattle, buffaloes and other domestic animals despite hospitals having proper buildings and stock of medicines. With field staff deployed for vaccination drives and government schemes, hospitals remain unmanned.
Veterinary Officer Manohar Dadmi said that appointing at least one staff member in each hospital would allow farmers to access basic medicines under doctor’s guidance.
The Pashu Sanjeevini ambulance service, which offers emergency door-to-door animal care through helpline 1962, has also failed to respond to calls in recent days, adding to farmers’ woes.
Khanapur taluk, largely covered by forests, has been facing difficulties in attracting doctors and staff, leading to repeated vacancies. Officials said the matter has been raised with the government and expressed hope that posts will be filled soon.
“Most veterinary hospitals are on the verge of closure. Farmers are being forced to take cattle to the district headquarters. The government must act immediately,” urged farmer leader Rudragowda Patil.
Staffing status (Khanapur taluk):
- Clinics: 15
- Sanctioned posts: 59
- Staff in position: 24
- Shortage: 29
