In a pioneering initiative for Odisha, the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) has joined hands with the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy under the Ministry of AYUSH to investigate the use of homoeopathy in treating domestic animals, including cows, dogs, and poultry.
Three Pilot Projects Launched
The collaboration will roll out three pilot projects focusing on Newcastle disease in poultry, infertility in cattle, and potential anti-cancer effects in dogs. The aim is to develop innovative veterinary treatment practices that deliver practical benefits to livestock farmers. The initiative is led by the university's College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, with the goal of supporting farmers through cost-effective and farmer-friendly treatment methods.
"Farmers largely depend on modern or allopathic medicines, which often come at higher costs. In contrast, homoeopathic remedies are comparatively inexpensive and can be administered by farmers themselves with basic guidance," said OUAT Vice-Chancellor Pravat Kumar Roul.
Project 1: Newcastle Disease in Poultry
According to an official statement from OUAT, the first project focuses on controlling Newcastle disease, one of the most widespread and economically damaging viral infections affecting chickens and other birds. The university's Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology will evaluate the effectiveness of homoeopathic treatments as a safe and affordable alternative to conventional methods.
Project 2: Infertility in Cattle
The second project addresses infertility issues in cattle, a major concern in dairy farming. Researchers from the Department of Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology and Obstetrics will investigate the role of homoeopathic medicines in improving reproductive health. Sources indicate that the study aims to enhance milk production and increase farmers' income by resolving infertility-related challenges.
Project 3: Anti-Cancer Potential in Dogs
The third project explores the anti-cancer potential of homoeopathic formulations in dogs, particularly for mammary gland tumours. This study will evaluate a combination of Thuja occidentalis and carbolic acid through both in vitro and in vivo models. "Researchers hope this could offer an alternative therapeutic pathway while reducing reliance on antibiotics, hormones, and conventional cancer treatments," said the VC.
Three-Year Research Plan
These projects will be carried out over the next three years, with continuous scientific evaluation of homoeopathic interventions, according to Susen Kumar Panda, Dean of the College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry. He stated that the outcomes are expected to contribute significantly to animal health management and create new opportunities for farmers and livestock owners. The OUAT statement emphasised that the initiative reflects the university's commitment to integrating traditional and modern scientific approaches to address real-world challenges in agriculture and allied sectors.
