Govt. looking at Pakistani camels

11 January 2011 06:25 pm

In its fresh attempt to raise camels in Sri Lanka, the Livestock Development Ministry had inquired for prices of animals from Pakistan since the price is as high as Rs.600, 000 an animal in Saudi Arabia, Deputy Minster H.R. Mithrapala said. 

Camel farming in selected areas such as Mannar is the brainchild of the Deputy Minister. Besides, Minister Aurumugam Thondaman has proposed to farm ostriches in Sri Lanka for eggs.

“One organization of animal lovers has asked us not to farm camels here. Yet, we have to find ways and means to feed our children with nutritious food,” he said.

Ministry Secretary A.H. Gamage said that the project was still at study levels. “We are yet to take any concrete step,” he said.

Asked about the plan to farm ostriches in Sri Lanka, he said that no action had so far been taken in this respect.

According to UN reports, camel milk is rich in vitamins B and C. It also has iron ten times more than cow’s milk. Camel milk is saltier than cow’s milk, and widely consumed in Arabic countries. However, research has shown that antibodies in camel milk can fight diseases like cancer, HIV/Aids and hepatitis according to UN reports.

 Milk is also well suited for cheese production. UN reports say that research is now carried out whether the consumption of camel milk can reduce the risk of heart diseases and diabetics. With improved feeding, husbandry and veterinary care daily yields could rise to 20 litres. (Kelum Bandara)