The Animal Husbandry Department has clarified that reports circulating on social media and in certain sections of the press regarding the physical test for selection of Pashu Mitras are misleading and not based on facts. The department stated that the recruitment process is being conducted strictly in line with the Pashu Mitra Policy, 2025, notified on August 14, 2025.
According to the department spokesperson, the physical test is a basic functional fitness assessment aimed at ensuring that selected candidates are capable of safely performing essential duties at veterinary institutions and livestock farms. These responsibilities include handling animals, lifting sick sheep or goats weighing around 25 kilograms, and carrying cattle feed bags as part of routine veterinary support work.
The spokesperson emphasized that the test is not an endurance competition and is not intended to humiliate or discriminate against any candidate, including women.
The honorarium of Rs. 5,000 per month is offered for a part-time role involving four hours of work per day. Despite being part-time, the job requires manual handling of livestock and related tasks, making minimum physical capability necessary.
To maintain transparency, the physical tests are being conducted by a committee headed by the Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil) and are being videographed. Candidates are permitted to carry the prescribed weight in any manner comfortable to them; carrying it on the head is not mandatory. Any deviation from the notified procedure will be examined.
So far, 315 candidates have completed the physical test, and no injuries have been reported. The department reiterated its commitment to fairness, safety, and dignity for all candidates and urged the public to rely on the official policy rather than selective or misleading portrayals.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
