In a landmark moment for India's space ambitions, Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has blasted off to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission , marking the country's return to human spaceflight after a 41-year hiatus . This historic launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida has not only reignited national pride but also officially kickstarted India’s human spaceflight programme . The mission, operated by Axiom Space , includes a four-member international crew that will spend 14 days in orbit , conducting scientific research, outreach programs, and various commercial activities. This momentous occasion places India among a select group of nations capable of sending humans into space and reflects the growing prowess of the Indian space sector . A New Chapter: Shubhanshu Shukla and India’s Astronautical Comeback The last Indian to go to space was Rakesh Sharma in 1984, aboard the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11. Now, in 2025, Shubhanshu...
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.