Enhancing livestock health services in India: An analytical study of para-veterinary workforce and service delivery

VIKASH  KUMAR; H R  MEENA; JYOTI  SINGH; PRIYAJOY  KAR

doi:10.56093/ijans.v95i11.172339

Authors

VIKASH KUMAR College of Agriculture, Gwalior, Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Gwalior- 474 002, Madhya Pradesh
H R MEENA ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly- 243 122, Uttar Pradesh
JYOTI SINGH Narain Degree College, Shikohabad, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, Agra – 205 135, Uttar Pradesh
PRIYAJOY KAR Narain Degree College, Shikohabad, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, Agra – 205 135, Uttar Pradesh

https://doi.org/10.56093/ijans.v95i11.172339

Keywords:

Analytic Hierarchy Process, Animal Health Services, Competency Assessment Index, Last-mile delivery, Para-veterinarians, SWOT analysis

Abstract

This study assessed the factors influencing animal health service (AHS) delivery by para-veterinarians (para-vets) and quantified their competencies across four major livestock states in India—Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Haryana. Strategic assessment using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) revealed that organizational strengths, such as empathetic behavior, cultural compatibility, and wide coverage, provide a strong operational base. However, the most critical impediment was institutional: high workforce dissatisfaction and low morale resulting from unclear job definitions and the lack of defined career pathways. The largest external opportunity lied in formal governmental recognition and the establishment of dedicated para-vet cadres. Competency evaluation using the Competency Assessment Index (CAI) highlighted proficiency in foundational skills like animal handling and basic extension assistance. Conversely, competence was critically low in areas vital for public health, specifically adherence to farm safety, hygiene, animal welfare protocols during doorstep delivery, and the use of modern communication technologies. These findings underscored an urgent need for comprehensive policy intervention focusing on professional formalization and targeted capacity building.

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