Yak Farmers Training and Awareness Session held in Shigar GB
A Yak Farmers Training and Awareness Session was organized in Shigar to promote yak farming in Gilgit-Baltistan. The purpose was to provide awareness regarding improved management, feeding, breeding, and animal health. Yak farming challenges were also discussed in the session. Prof Dr. Tanveer Hussain of the Virtual University of Pakistan, Islamabad organized this session.
Livestock Department Gilgit-Baltistan, the University of Baltistan Skardu, VVO&RIC, and the Yak and Camel Foundation Germany supported this activity. A large number of yak farmers from different areas of Shigar participated in the Farmers’ Day event along with their yaks.
Dr. Muhammad Hanif (Deputy Director Shigar) and Dr. Ali Murad Khan (Deputy Director Skardu), with the support of Dr. Mudassar Sohail and Dr. Kashif Hussain managed this session.
Yak Farming Challenges Discussed at Yak Farmers Training Session
During the training session, farmers held detailed discussions on yak farming challenges. These included yak management, feeding, breeding, and impact of climate change. They also discussed lack of organized breeding programs, the non-availability of nucleus herds and quality breeding bulls. Moreover, they also focused on the losses caused by wildlife attacks, the spread of diseases, and feed shortages during harsh winters.
The farmers appreciated the national and international efforts of Professor Dr. Tanveer Hussain in promoting yak development and noted that tourists are showing increasing interest in yaks and yak-based products.
اونٹوں کی بریڈنگ اور بیالوجی پر کتاب شائع
Technical Discussion at Yak Farmers Training Session
Experts delivered technical lectures in local languages to ensure effective transfer of knowledge.
Professor Dr. Tanveer Hussain encouraged farmers to explore new business opportunities such as yak safari tourism, fiber-based products, handicrafts made from bones, and souvenir items. He described the yak as the “King of the Mountains” and highlighted its importance as a key source of livelihood for local communities.
Dr. Asif Idris spoke on zoonotic diseases. Dr. Ali Murad discussed livestock health management. Furthemore, Dr. Muhammad Mudassar explained the importance of parasite control. Dr. Muhammad Hanif addressed various aspects of yak health.
تیسری انٹرنیشنل یاک کانفرنس کا سکردو میں انعقاد
Appreciation from Community
Chairman of the Local Support Organization Shigar, Wazir Fida Ali, and Principal of Boys College Shigar, Professor Hassan Shad, along with other social figures, also attended the event.
On this occasion, community representatives emphasized promoting yak-based business activities for youth and paid tribute to Professor Dr. Tanveer Hussain for his services.
At the conclusion of the event, appreciation shields with a yak theme were distributed among local farmers, speakers, and organizers. Finally, Dr. Muhammad Hanif thanked all participating institutions and attendees and reaffirmed the commitment to continued cooperation for the promotion of yak farming in Gilgit-Baltistan.
