Established in 1986, the Joint Directorate of Extension Education (JDEE) at ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) has been committed to bridging the gap between research and field application. It aims to effectively transfer IVRI’s cutting-edge technologies and research outputs to farmers, field veterinarians, academicians, researchers, subject matter specialists, and other stakeholders in the livestock and animal husbandry sectors. Unlike crop-based agricultural extension—largely seasonal and synchronous—livestock extension demands a different approach due to its year-round nature and the diversity of animal husbandry practices. These systems often vary even within small geographic areas due to differences in household resources, herd composition, and production goals. Livestock extension must, therefore, be specialized, dynamic, and inclusive, integrating both health and production components. To meet these complex needs, livestock extension services must emphasize upon participatory needs assessment, responsiveness to household-level variations along with timely, demand-driven information dissemination. In addition, strengthening the linkages between research and extension is critical. Traditional animal health services often focus on curative aspects and inputs such as vaccines, drugs, or semen. However, broader goals like disease prevention, mortality reduction, and food safety require a proactive, outreach-driven model.
JDEE delivers on this vision through its key units—Division of Extension Education, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Agricultural Technology Information Centre (ATIC), Agri-Business Incubation (ABI), and Institute Technology Management Unit (ITMU). These units not only disseminate technologies but also capture field-level feedback to inform and enrich ongoing research. There is a growing need for an independent, integrated livestock health and production information system—one that reaches dispersed producers using participatory approaches, modern communication tools, and innovative media. JDEE is dedicated to fostering innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity in livestock extension, ensuring that every stakeholder benefits from IVRI’s scientific advancements and contributes to sustainable animal production in India. Thus, JDEE connect science with society.
Dr. Rupasi Tiwari
Joint Director (Extension Education)