The sheep distribution scheme, one of the flagship programmes of the State government came to a grinding halt across all the Telangana districts leaving Hyderabad where the scheme is not being implemented.
Deputy Chief Minister Kadiyam Srihari’s reported comment making light of the work done by veterinary doctors seems to have irritated the vets who are instrumental in grounding the scheme from sheep selection to sheep distribution.
“With or without knowledge, Mr. Srihari made objectionable comments stating that the veterinary doctors know nothing and the shepherds know better than a doctor. Then what is the need of our involvement? Let the authorities do it on their own,” commented a veterinary doctor on condition of anonymity stating that the comment was made to please the Golla- Kurumas.
A memorandum was submitted by Telangana Animal Husbandry Officers’ Service Association (TAHOSA) to the State government stating that they would not participate in the sheep distribution programme till an apology was offered by the Minister. At district level, the memoranda were submitted to the collectors and the veterinary doctors are attending their normal duties.
“Even the transportation of sheep from the neighbouring State has become a serious issue with transport contractors loading more sheep than permitted and not making any compartments as demanded by the law. We are not ready to violate the law,” said another doctor stating that chances of sheep dying during transport or after that cannot be ruled out.
However it was decided to procure sheep for farmers who were already on tour in other states for purchase.
