Srinagar, Feb 21 (UNI) Jammu and Kashmir Animal Husbandry department has decided to set up 74 dairy units in the frontier district of Kupwara, once a hub of militants.

An official spokesman said the department is spending Rs 26.66 lakhs during current fiscal out of which Rs 20 lakhs stand expended by ending January in the district.

The department has spent Rs 5.5 lakhs for setting up 74 dairy units and Rs 6 lakhs on the procurement of fodder.

He said 14,156 cattle have been covered under artificial insemination scheme while 4,781 new births were also registered.

About 25,000 cattle and Rs 4.96 lakh poultry birds were vaccinated against various diseases. Besides, about 2 lakh cattle were provided medicare against various contagious and non-contagious diseases.

He said 1.48 lakh cattle were dosed and 2,614 one day old chicks and 8,000 eggs were provided to local farmers.

About 290 backyard poultry unit were set up by the department and 5 awareness camps were organised for local farmers by the department.

As many as, 40 poultry units were set up under private sector in the district during this period.

UNI BAS AM DS1355