No major outbreak of veterinary diseases reported in Tamil Nadu: Animal Husbandry Minister

S. Kamali, Tamil Nadu Minister for Animal Husbandry, holding inspection at a veterinary hospital in Salem on November 4, 2026 | Photo Credit: E. Lakshmi Narayanan

Tamil Nadu Minister for Animal Husbandry S. Kamali on Wednesday (November 4, 2026) said there was no major outbreak of veterinary diseases in the State and that vaccination camps were being conducted regularly.

Addressing the media at Salem after inspecting veterinary hospitals, she said medicines were being provided free of cost to pet owners at veterinary hospitals and they were not asked to purchase medicines from outside. During the inspection, records, including those pertaining to veterinary camps, were verified. She said children should be educated on the need to avoid bursting crackers near cattle during the Deepavali festival to prevent distress and injuries to animals.

Asked about the death of 11 milch cows in the district, Ms. Kamali said the deaths could have been caused by a bacterial infection. Tests were being conducted to ascertain the cause, she added. Denying any outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), she said vaccination camps were being held regularly to protect livestock.

The Veterinary College and Research Institute at Thalaivasal in Salem district is functioning, she said. During her recent inspection, the institute had submitted a list of requirements, including additional infrastructure and staff. Several employees were working on deputation, and the vacancies would be filled soon, she added.

Ms. Kamali also denied reports of bird flu in Namakkal district and said no chicken deaths had been reported due to the disease.

Published - November 04, 2026 04:34 pm IST