Rajasthan government bans animal fairs as Lumpy virus spreads

The state government of Rajasthan has banned the staging of animal fairs in the wake of the deaths of more than 12,800 cattle from a skin condition caused by the Lumpy virus. Sri Ganganagar has the highest number of reported cattle deaths in the state at 2,511, followed by Barmer with 1,619, Jodhpur with 1,581, Bikaner with 1,156, Jalore with 1,150, and Jalore with 1,138.

"Situation in completely under control. All efforts are being made to control the disease spread. Most of the deaths have occurred in five districts and the situation in other districts of the state is under control," Secretary, Animal Husbandry Department P C Kishan said.

The Department estimates that 2,81,484 animals have fallen victim to the sickness and that 2,41,685 have been successfully treated. An official announcement from the state government of Rajasthan stated that animal fairs would no longer be permitted because of the risk of disease transmission.


Additionally, the state government has issued guidelines for the humane disposal of dead animals. The state of Rajasthan has approved the rapid filling of 500 vacant positions with temporary workers. There are a total of 300 livestock assistants and 200 veterinarians.

Animal Husbandry Department Minister Lal Chand Kataria said the respective district in-charge ministers have been asked to monitor the situation.