As climate change continues to pose significant challenges to the agriculture-based livelihoods of small farmers in Umerkot, experts are calling for urgent measures to protect livestock, a vital asset for income generation, food security, and resilience. Experts emphasized the need for sustainable veterinary support in this drought-prone region.
Dr. Zahid Hussain Magrio, a veterinary expert, underscored the importance of livestock, such as cattle, goats, and sheep, for small farmers who often face limited crop farming options due to frequent droughts and water shortages. “Livestock provides a steady income through the sale of milk, dairy products, and animals, which helps families cover essential expenses and survive during difficult times,” he stated. AWARE’s initiative aims to improve local knowledge of animal health and welfare, contributing to the productivity and sustainability of Umerkot’s farming community.
We recognize the vital role that livestock play in the daily lives of the people of Umerkot, whether they are used for farming, or as a source of food. Our mission is to bring expert veterinary services directly to the community at no cost, said Dr. Rahib Ali, Project Manager of AWARE.
Social Development Practitioner Vijay Kumar Malhi highlighted that livestock also offers direct access to nutritious food sources such as milk, meat, and butter, which are essential for combating malnutrition in Umerkot, especially among women and children. “Livestock products improve dietary diversity and health. Furthermore, livestock is a form of financial security that farmers can rely on during emergencies, like medical needs or crop failures,” he added.
To support underserved communities, AWARE organized two free veterinary camps in collaboration with AZRC. These camps, held in Essa Mangrio, UC Khan Sahib Atta Muhammad Palli, and Village Ghul Muhammad Palli, UC Koonjheli, Tehsil Umerkot, provided free medical consultations, treatments, vaccinations, and educational resources for pet and livestock owners. During these camps, veterinarians treated 2030 animals—including 455 buffaloes, 336 cows, 928 goats, and 281 sheep—owned by 208 farmers. Common diseases detected included Foot and Mouth Disease, Peste des Petits Ruminants, Blackwater disease, and Brucellosis, all of which affect livestock health and productivity.
Farmers have urged the Sindh Livestock Department to expand the vaccination network to ensure that even the most vulnerable families can access essential veterinary services.
Regular veterinary care is often unaffordable for many small-scale farmers, leading to preventable diseases, malnutrition, and reduced productivity. Without adequate veterinary support, these challenges threaten farmers’ livelihoods, food security, and economic stability.
By prioritizing livestock welfare and extending veterinary services, stakeholders can help secure the future of small farmers in Umerkot, enabling them to adapt to the realities of climate change while sustaining their income and nutritional needs.
This veterinary vaccination drive organized by AWARE in collaboration with the Arid Zone Research Centre (AZRC) and funded by the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF) under the Restoration of Social Service and Climate Resilience (RSSCR) project.
AWARE remains committed to providing platforms for knowledge-sharing, training, and support for local farmers, recognizing livestock as a cornerstone of resilience for Umerkot’s rural economy.
