Gujarat Launches Statewide Vaccination Drive Against Foot and Mouth Disease

The Government of Gujarat has launched an intensive vaccination campaign to control the spread of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) across the state. The drive began on 1 March 2026 and will continue until 15 April under the National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP). The initiative aims to protect livestock health, prevent disease outbreaks and safeguard farmers from potential economic losses caused by declining animal productivity.

Understanding Foot and Mouth Disease

Foot and Mouth Disease is a highly contagious viral infection affecting cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, buffaloes, sheep and goats. The disease typically causes fever, mouth ulcers and excessive salivation in infected animals. It often leads to a sharp decline in milk production and overall productivity, making it a serious concern for dairy farmers. Outbreaks can significantly affect rural livelihoods, particularly in regions where dairy farming is a major source of income.

Vaccination drive under NADCP

The vaccination campaign is being implemented as part of the National Animal Disease Control Programme, a nationwide initiative aimed at controlling and eventually eradicating FMD and other livestock diseases. Veterinary teams across Gujarat are conducting large-scale vaccination of cattle and buffaloes to prevent the spread of infection. Experts emphasise that vaccination drives conducted twice every year are essential for effective disease prevention.

Use of digital platforms for monitoring

As part of the campaign, livestock are being identified through ear-tagging and their details are being uploaded to the Information Network for Animal Productivity and Health (INAPH) portal. This digital platform enables authorities to track vaccination coverage, monitor livestock health and ensure comprehensive protection of animals across the state.

Important Facts for Exams

• Foot and Mouth Disease is a highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, buffaloes, sheep and goats.
• The National Animal Disease Control Programme aims to control and eradicate livestock diseases including FMD.
• The INAPH portal is used in India to digitally track livestock productivity, health and vaccination data.
• Regular vaccination drives are conducted twice a year to prevent the spread of FMD.

Support from farmers and local institutions

The vaccination campaign has received support from local farmers and dairy cooperatives. Officials regularly visit villages to vaccinate livestock and raise awareness about disease prevention. In several villages, a significant proportion of cattle have already been vaccinated during the ongoing drive. Authorities believe that sustained and large-scale vaccination efforts will help control the disease and protect the livelihoods of dairy farmers across Gujarat.