In a major leap toward self-reliance in defense technology, India is set to develop its very own fifth-generation fighter jet—the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) . In a historic move, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved an innovative execution model for the indigenous stealth fighter programme. This model brings together Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and private industry players in a competitive framework, marking a significant shift in how India approaches military aviation manufacturing. This bold initiative comes at a critical time, as China has already fielded two fifth-generation fighters , and reports indicate it will supply 40 J-35 stealth jets to Pakistan . Against this backdrop, fast-tracking the AMCA has become an urgent national security imperative. AMCA: India’s Indigenous Stealth Fighter Dream The AMCA project , spearheaded by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) , received its l...
Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) – A Detailed Overview
1. About Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD)
- Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) is a contagious viral disease that affects cattle and buffaloes.
- It is caused by the Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV), belonging to the Capripoxvirus genus in the Poxviridae family.
- The disease leads to severe economic losses in the livestock industry due to decreased milk production, weight loss, and trade restrictions.
2. Causes & Transmission
- Pathogen: Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV).
- Mode of Transmission:
- Vector-borne transmission: Spread by blood-feeding insects, such as:
- Flies (Stomoxys species)
- Mosquitoes (Aedes and Culex species)
- Ticks (Rhipicephalus and Amblyomma species)
- Direct Contact: Through infected animals.
- Contaminated feed, water, or equipment.
- Aerosol transmission (rare but possible in crowded conditions).
- Vector-borne transmission: Spread by blood-feeding insects, such as:
3. Symptoms of Lumpy Skin Disease
- Fever (40–41.5°C).
- Large firm nodules (2-5 cm in diameter) on the skin, covering the head, neck, limbs, udder, and genitalia.
- Swelling of the lymph nodes.
- Loss of appetite & reduced milk production.
- Lameness due to painful nodules.
- Nasal and eye discharge.
- In severe cases, it can lead to death, especially in young and immunocompromised cattle.
4. Economic & Agricultural Impact
- Decline in Milk Yield: Affected cattle produce less milk due to stress and fever.
- Reduced Meat Quality: Skin nodules cause lesions that affect leather and meat quality.
- Trade Restrictions: Many countries ban cattle imports from LSD-affected regions.
- Increased Veterinary Costs: Treatment and vaccination programs increase expenses for farmers.
5. Prevention & Control Measures
- Vaccination:
- Biolumpivaxin, developed by Bharat Biotech & ICAR, recently approved by CDSCO.
- Other live-attenuated vaccines are also used.
- Vector Control:
- Use of insecticides, repellents, and tick control measures.
- Quarantine & Biosecurity Measures:
- Isolating infected animals to prevent disease spread.
- Disinfecting farm equipment, feed, and water sources.
- Public Awareness & Farmer Training:
- Government-led programs to educate farmers on disease prevention.
6. Government & Global Efforts
- India’s Response:
- The Government provides central funding for LSD control through vaccination programs, awareness campaigns, and training initiatives.
- Global Efforts:
- FAO and OIE recommend early detection, vaccination, and vector control for LSD management.
This structured approach ensures effective understanding and management of LSD among livestock farmers, veterinarians, and policymakers.