Ludhiana: In a major boost for Punjab’s dairy sector, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (Gadvasu) is set to launch a mobile laboratory offering free milk and animal feed testing services to farmers across the state from January.Billed by university officials as a first-of-its-kind initiative in the country, the mobile lab will take scientific testing facilities directly to dairy farmers, helping them detect milk adulteration, assess feed quality and identify harmful contaminants that can affect animal health and milk production.The university has already procured a vehicle for the project and is now undertaking its fabrication to equip it with laboratory facilities. The initiative is being supported through a Rs 1.55 crore CSR grant from a private firm.Dr JS Hundal, head of the department of animal nutrition, said the aim was to make specialised testing services accessible to farmers near their villages. “Farmers will be able to get milk and feed samples tested free of cost, without travelling long distances to laboratories,” he said.The mobile unit will test milk quality, detect adulteration and screen samples for aflatoxins, toxic substances in animal feed that can affect livestock and enter the milk supply chain. It will also analyse cattle feed, fodder and silage, enabling farmers to identify nutritional deficiencies and improve feeding practices.To maximise outreach, the university plans to station the laboratory at its campuses, Krishi Vigyan Kendras and other govt locations across central, south-western and Kandi regions of Punjab.Officials said easier access to testing will help dairy farmers improve herd nutrition, enhance milk quality and address food safety concerns. If the project succeeds, Gadvasu plans to expand the initiative with additional mobile units and advisory services on balanced feeding practices.
