FMD Control Programme | Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science Optional for UPSC PDF Download

FMD Control Programme Overview

Initiation and Pilot Project: 

• The Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) Control Programme commenced in 1980 as a pilot project in the Nilgiri district across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. 
• The technical program was trialed in Nilgiri district for three years before expanding to other districts in three phases, starting from Nilgiris.

Vaccination Strategies: 

• The program included three rounds of six-monthly vaccinations in each district. 
• Followed by continuous vaccination in the border regions and established cattle routes.

Impact and Results: 

• Over a five-year period, a significant shift was observed in the disease incidence pattern from being endemic to sporadic. 
• The number of outbreaks decreased substantially, and the involvement of animals in each outbreak also reduced. 
• Outbreaks were effectively contained and eliminated through ring vaccination strategies.

Elaboration and Examples: 

• The FMD Control Programme was introduced as a strategic initiative to combat the spread of Foot-and-Mouth Disease in the southern regions of India, specifically targeting the districts of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Beginning as a trial in the Nilgiri district, the program underwent rigorous testing and assessment over a period of three years before being progressively implemented in other districts. Vaccination played a pivotal role in the program's success, with each district receiving three rounds of vaccinations every six months. This proactive approach was complemented by continuous vaccination efforts in border areas and along established cattle routes, aiming to create a barrier against the disease's transmission.
• The transformative impact of the FMD Control Programme became evident over five years, as the frequency of outbreaks decreased significantly. The shift from endemic to sporadic disease occurrence reflected the program's effectiveness in curbing the spread of FMD.
• With a decline in both the number of outbreaks and the scale of animal involvement in each incident, the intervention demonstrated its ability to mitigate the disease's impact.
• Furthermore, the containment and eradication of outbreaks through ring vaccination exemplified the program's targeted and systematic approach towards managing and controlling Foot-and-Mouth Disease within the region. This comprehensive strategy not only reduced the immediate threat posed by outbreaks but also laid the groundwork for a sustainable and resilient disease control framework.

In summary, the FMD Control Programme stands as a testament to the power of strategic planning, coordinated efforts, and proactive measures in combating infectious diseases and safeguarding the health and well-being of livestock populations.