Vet college to set up livestock, poultry units

Panaji: Goa College of Veterinary Science in Ponda is set to establish livestock and poultry units ahead of the launch of its first academic year.The directorate of animal husbandry and veterinary services (AHVS) issued a tender inviting e-bids for the supply of livestock and poultry required for the college.

According to AHVS, the college plans to establish a poultry unit, dairy unit, goatery unit and piggery unit as part of its teaching and practical training infrastructure.

“These units are essential for hands-on veterinary education, research and clinical exposure for students,” an official said.“The establishment of functional dairy, poultry and livestock units will support academic training, contribute to applied research and extension activities,” he added.Last month, chief minister Pramod Sawant chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the readiness of the veterinary college and to ensure that it commences its first academic year by mid-2026. Officials said the setting up of livestock and poultry units is a critical requirement under veterinary education norms and is necessary for securing statutory approvals.At present, Goa does not have its own veterinary college, resulting in students being sent outside the state for professional training.

State govt sponsors 11 students every year to pursue veterinary studies at three institutions in Maharashtra — Mumbai Veterinary College, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Parbhani and Krantisinh Nana Patil College of Veterinary Science, Shirwal, Satara.These Maharashtra-based institutions typically begin their admission process between July and Aug, with the academic year commencing in Sep.Once operational, Goa College of Veterinary Science in Ponda is expected to reduce the state’s dependence on out-of-state institutions for veterinary education.