Patna: Bihar is preparing to make a major improvement in animal healthcare by installing X-ray and ultrasound machines in all district veterinary hospitals. This step is being taken under the Atmanirbhar Bihar Seven Resolves–2 programme and will be implemented in hospitals that provide 24-hour services. The aim is to ensure quick and correct diagnosis of diseases in animals, which will help doctors start the right treatment without delay. The state government has said that the entire work will be completed within this year.
The Animal Husbandry Department has already sent instructions to all district animal husbandry officers to begin preparations. Once the machines are installed, veterinarians will be able to detect pregnancy and internal diseases in cows, buffaloes, dogs, cats and other animals using ultrasound. X-ray machines will help in identifying bone fractures and joint problems. At present, most doctors have to rely only on visible symptoms and their experience, which often leads to wrong or delayed diagnosis. This new system will reduce such risks and improve animal care.
To support this project, the Bihar government has approved a budget of Rs 782.80 lakh for the financial year 2025–26. The estimated cost of one ultrasound machine is Rs 30.57 lakh. The tender process for purchasing and installing the machines has already started. The Bihar Livestock Development Agency (BLDA), Patna, has been given the responsibility of carrying out the scheme across the state.
Officials say this decision will directly benefit rural families, as nearly 88% of Bihar’s population lives in villages and depends on farming and animal husbandry for income. Livestock farming, including dairy, poultry, goat, sheep and pig rearing, provides employment to thousands of people. However, the lack of modern medical equipment in veterinary hospitals has been a long-standing problem. With the arrival of X-ray and ultrasound machines, farmers will be able to get timely and accurate treatment for their animals, reducing losses and increasing productivity.
Dr Aman Srivastava, district agriculture officer in Samastipur, said the project reflects the state’s focus on self-reliance. “Under the Seven Resolutions for Self-Reliant Bihar – Part 2, the process to install ultrasound machines in veterinary hospitals for disease diagnosis is underway. Letters have been issued from the state level,” he said. Farmers and livestock owners across Bihar are now hopeful that this step will bring better care for their animals and stronger support for their livelihoods.
