DW BUREAU / LUDHIANA Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU) organized a one week training programme on foat farming under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. The programme which started today would continue till February 25. Dr RK Sharma, HoD, informed that improved goat production through better housing and feeding practices has direct implication on income of millions of households as well as national food security. Goat is gaining popularity in Punjab as it can consume wide variety of feed resources, requires less capital or investment, fast sexual maturity (9-12 months) and proliferation. Due to lower input requirements, goat production highly suits unemployed youth, women, ex-servicemen etc. who can easily learn skills in this profession. Apart from meat, goat milk remains in high demand. There is huge scope in value addition and processing of goat milk and meat which can further enhance income. Goats are adapted to a wide variety of climatic conditions and they are hardy in nature. Goats have many specialties such as smaller size, easy handling, broad range of eatables etc. which make them an animal of choice to farmers round the globe. He revealed that this training programme was being organized at Farmer Information Centre of the University. During this training, knowledge will be provided about various breeds, breeding techniques, feeding management, shed designs, weather management, vaccination protocols, diseases and their prevention, value addition of milk and meat and economics of goat farming etc. Practical training on handling goats, measuring body temperature, signs of healthy animals will also be provided to the trainees. For more information, one can contact Farmer Helpline Number 0161- 2414026 during working hours. (editor@dailyworld.in)