Chopans and Farmers Voice Concerns at Interactive Session Held at VAS Headquarters Shrakwara
Wagoora, April 30:
An interactive meeting was held today at the Veterinary Assistant Surgeon’s (VAS) Headquarters in Shrakwara, bringing together traditional shepherds (Chopans) and sheep breeders from different parts of the district. The session was chaired by Dr. Showkat Ahanger, District Sheep Husbandry Officer (DSHO) Baramulla, and coordinated by Dr. Ishfaq Dhobi, VAS Shrakwara.
Among the key participants was Mohammad Sultan Chopan, a prominent representative of the Chopan community. He and other leaders highlighted the difficulties faced during seasonal migrations to highland pastures. The issues included the demand for rearing kits, solar lighting, warm blankets, anti-wild animal devices, rollable fencing for night shelters, and sufficient stocks of veterinary medicines.
A significant concern raised was the absence of standardized rearing charges for animals in both lowland and highland areas. The Chopans appealed to the administration to regulate these rates to ensure livelihood stability and operational clarity.
On the farmers’ side, concerns were raised over overstocking practices by Chopans, which often lead to compromised livestock care. They advocated for a regulated sheep-to-Chopan ratio for better herd management. Farmers also stressed that underperforming rams should be excluded from mating programs to maintain and enhance flock genetics. Another common issue discussed was the illegal encroachment of government grazing lands, forcing shepherds to graze flocks in private orchards—frequently resulting in disputes with landowners. Participants urged the government to take corrective measures and reclaim public pastures for legitimate use.
In his closing address, Dr. Showkat Ahanger reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to strengthening the sheep sector through an inclusive and sustainable development approach. He emphasized that both Chopans and sheep breeders must be empowered for long-term progress.
As part of the initiative, 10 canvas tents were distributed to selected Chopans under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP). Additionally, 40 fodder seed kits were provided to orchard-based sheep breeders to help address fodder shortages. The selection of beneficiaries was carried out by a committee led by Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa.
Dr. Ishfaq Dhobi extended gratitude to all participants for sharing their views and acknowledged the continued efforts of DSHO Baramulla in uplifting sheep husbandry practices across the district.
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