The Ministry of Agriculture has announced a nationwide free vaccination initiative targeting cattle, buffaloes and goats against Foot and Mouth Disease and Lumpy Skin Disease, with over Rs. 152 million allocated for the programme.

The Sri Lankan government has initiated a comprehensive vaccination campaign designed to shield livestock from two significant diseases that threaten the country's farming sector. The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation announced the programme, which provides free inoculations against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) for cattle, buffaloes and goats across the nation.

The initiative addresses concerns about disease transmission, particularly during periods of natural disaster when livestock populations face heightened vulnerability. By providing free access to vaccines, authorities aim to strengthen the overall health of the country's livestock and bolster the agricultural economy. The programme represents a preventative public health approach to safeguarding a critical sector of Sri Lanka's rural economy.

The government has committed substantial resources to the effort, allocating Rs. 152.3 million overall. Of this amount, Rs. 79.3 million has been designated for FMD vaccinations while Rs. 73 million will support LSD vaccination efforts. The vaccines are being distributed through divisional veterinary centres established at district level, making them accessible to farmers throughout the country.

Livestock owners and farmers are being encouraged to bring their animals to their nearest veterinary centre to receive the vaccinations at no cost. The Ministry has framed participation as a collective responsibility, urging agricultural communities to take advantage of the programme to protect the wider livestock population and maintain the sector's viability.