Registration of Horses and Mules Begins for Kedarnath Yatra
Rudraprayag (Utrakhand) : The registration and health check-up of horses and mules for the Kedarnath Yatra has begun today. The Animal Husbandry Department, with the help of G-Max Company, will conduct camps at various locations in the district until April 10 for the registration process.
In the first phase, 5,000 horses and mules will be registered. This time, an internal tag is being implanted in the animals, which, when scanned, will provide details about the animal’s health, its operator, and its owner. A task force will be deployed along the trekking route to monitor the movement and well-being of the registered animals.
With the Kedarnath Yatra set to begin on May 2, authorities are improving the management of horse and mule operations this year. The registration and health check-up process has already commenced at Pithora in the Ukhimath block. The camps will not only ensure health check-ups but also provide insurance coverage for the animals. Additionally, details of the animal owners and operators will be officially registered.
32 Camps for Registration
Dr. Ashish Singh Rawat, Chief Animal Husbandry Officer, stated that a total of 32 camps will be organized across Agastyamuni, Jakholi, and Ukhimath blocks to register horses and mules for the pilgrimage. Based on health reports, only fit animals will be permitted for registration. The animals will also be implanted with an internal tag through an injection into the neck skin. Furthermore, a Joint Director-level officer will be appointed as the nodal officer for this year’s Yatra.
What is an Internal Tag?
The internal tag is a microchip implanted into the neck skin of horses and mules through an injection. This chip stores data regarding the animal’s health, owner, and operator. By scanning the chip, all details will be instantly displayed on a screen.
Livelihood of Thousands Depends on Horses and Mules
Horses and mules are not just a mode of transport for pilgrims but also a source of livelihood for over 25,000 families. At least three people are associated with every horse or mule.
Record-Breaking Revenue from Horse-Mule Operations
In 2024, the horse and mule industry in the Kedarnath Yatra generated a record revenue of ₹1.25 billion. Comparatively, the revenue stood at ₹1.09 billion in 2023 and ₹900 million in 2022.
Strict Action Against Animal Cruelty
Animal Husbandry Minister and Rudraprayag District In-Charge Minister, Saurabh Bahuguna, emphasized that strict monitoring will be conducted during the Kedarnath Yatra to ensure the well-being of horses and mules. Any form of animal cruelty will not be tolerated, and strict action will be taken against violators.
The registration process for horses and mules will continue from March 22 to April 10 to ensure a smooth and well-regulated Kedarnath Yatra starting on May 2.
