PANJIM: Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Parshottam Rupala on Saturday approved Goa government’s Rs 38-crore model wholesale fish market at Margao and announced that two mobile veterinary treatment vans/ambulances for cattle will be started in Goa soon.

Speaking to reporters after chairing the State-level meeting of fisheries, animal husbandry and veterinary services and dairying at ICAR, Old Goa, Rupala said, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made an attempt to bring technology to the homes of cattle-breeders. As part of the plan, mobile ambulance facilities for cattle are being started across the country and a modern fish-market will be built at Margao, which will be a model for other States as well. One mobile van each will be started in both the districts of Goa.”

The Minister’s announcement of introducing two mobile veterinary ambulances came after some farmers complained that they are finding it difficult to bring their large pets or sick animals to the clinic. Rupala said both the mobile veterinary ambulances equipped with all facilities will provide treatment to pets and domesticated animals at the doorstep of farmers.

Rupala highlighted the various changes brought under the schemes of Government of India and emphasised thorough implementation of the revised and realigned schemes of the Department. He said the State is the key stakeholder for implementation of the schemes.

The minister said of the Rs 400 crore incentives announced for Goa, the Centre had already released Rs 40 crore for the State to revive the fishing industry. He also asked the Goa government to look into the possibility of starting cage culture by ensuring that the tourism is not affected ion the coastal State.

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said the State government has already appointed 200 ‘Sagar Mitra’ for 60 fishing villages in Goa. Till now 10 fishing villages are operation in the State, he added.

Fisheries Minister Filipe Nery Rodrigues was also present for the press briefing.