VIJAYAWADA: The Andhra Pradesh State Veterinary Council (APSVC) has raised concerns over the disparity in stipends for veterinary interns compared to their medical counterparts, along with irregular payment disbursements.
Chairing the first meeting of the reconstituted council on Saturday, APSVC Chairman Dr PV Lakshmaiah emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues. The council has unanimously decided to seek clarification from Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University (SVVU), Tirupati, regarding past and current stipend policies. APSVC has also directed the university to ensure timely, monthly stipend payments to veterinary interns, recognizing their crucial contributions to rural communities. The council has urged SVVU to address this issue as a top priority and provide the requested information within seven days for further action.
In another major decision, APSVC has ordered individuals and associations not registered with the council to immediately remove the term “veterinary” from their titles or names. The council strongly objected to the misuse of the title without proper registration and warned of legal action against violators.
The council also clarified that Rural Livestock Units (RLUs) and Rythu Seva Kendras (RSKs) cannot be classified as veterinary institutions. “These units are merely extensions of a government service branch and should report to a recognized veterinary institution,” said Dr Lakshmaiah.
Furthermore, APSVC has resolved to strictly enforce the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, to prevent the supply of veterinary drugs to unauthorized centers and individuals. “Misuse of the term ‘veterinary’ is a serious offense. Associations and individuals not registered with APSVC must remove ‘veterinary’ from their names and designations within two weeks,” warned Dr Lakshmaiah.
Additionally, the council has decided to immediately halt training programs conducted by non-recognized institutions, calling such programs unauthorized.
APSVC also emphasized the need to review all policy decisions affecting the veterinary profession to ensure compliance with the VCI Act, 1984. The council stressed that it should be involved in all policy matters and review meetings at the government level. The animal husbandry department has been directed to implement these resolutions immediately, ensuring strict adherence to veterinary laws and ethical practices.
