Pune: As part of the ongoing livestock census in Pune district, larger livestock will be tagged with unique identification numbers. This initiative, aimed at streamlining livestock records, will ensure untagged animals are identified and accounted for during the census.

The livestock census began on November 25 across Maharashtra, with participation from government and private enumerators.

The enumerators, trained by the district’s animal husbandry department, will collect detailed data, including the age, gender, type, breed, and purpose of each animal.

In the previous census, Pune recorded over 1.14 million cattle and 866,538 goats and sheep. Data collected in the current census will be digitized and integrated into the Central Animal Husbandry Department’s system.

The tagging process involves attaching a 12-digit barcode to each animal’s ear, which serves as an Aadhaar-like identification for livestock. This tag helps maintain records of vaccinations, treatments, ownership, and even sales and purchases.

According to officials, the initiative is critical for accurate livestock data, enabling the government to implement schemes effectively and ensure subsidies reach the right beneficiaries.

“Accurate livestock data is essential for the successful execution of various government schemes. We urge all livestock owners to cooperate and provide correct information during the census,” said Santosh Patil, CEO of the Zilla Parishad.