Vets to inspect animal products' hygiene, standards

KATHUA, MARCH 30- Deputy Commissioner Kathua,Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, taking a serious note of non-compliance of public health standards by animal products' outlets has directed the expert veterinary doctors to carry out extensive market inspections and check the standard of hygiene and public health observed.

Chief Animal Husbandry Officer and District Sheep Husbandry Officer, Kathua, have been asked to provide the services of expert veterinary professionals and Veterinary Assistant Surgeons for inspection of milk, milk products, poultry and meat products being sold in market and in case of sub-standard or adulterated material being found report the cases of defaulters to Additional Deputy Commissioner Kathua Dr Mushtaq Ahmed who will initiate further proceedings against the defaulters under law.

The DC also asked departments of Animal Husbandry, Sheep Husbandry, CA & PD, Legal Metrology, Rural Development and Urban Local Bodies to carry out extensive awareness campaign through all means and also sensitize the business community regarding veterinary public health and legal provisions. He called upon officers to also run regular information strip on local cable channels on this issue and create awareness among masses.

Chief Animal Husbandry Officer and District Sheep Husbandry Officer will notify the veterinary doctors for various municipalities and rural areas, complaint cell for general public has been established to report any case of adulteration or quality compromise as well as selling of sub-standard products. Joint teaof Vets, CAPD, Legal Metrology and Municipality staff will carry out inspections.

The DC stressed upon highlighting the consumer affairs and according highest priority to it. A core committee headed by Additional Deputy Commissioner and comprised of Chief Animal Husbandry Officer, District Sheep Husbandry Officer, Assistant Director CAPD, Asst Director Legal Metrology, CEO Municipal Council, Tehsildars and Executive Officers shall monitor the progress on fortnightly basis for ensuring standards of food safety, public health and hygiene.