Shimla: The Spokesperson of the Animal Husbandry Department today here clarified that the reports circulating on social media and in certain sections of the press regarding the physical test for selection of Pashu Mitras were misleading and beyond facts. The selection process was being conducted strictly in accordance with the Pashu Mitra Policy, 2025, notified on 14 August, 2025.
He clarified that the physical test was a basic functional fitness check, conducted only to ensure that selected candidates can safely perform essential duties in veterinary institutions and livestock farms. These duties include handling animals, lifting sick sheep or goats (around 25 kg) and carrying cattle feed bags as part of routine veterinary support work.
The test was not an endurance competition and was not intended to humiliate or discriminate against any candidate, including women. The honorarium of Rs. 5,000 per month was for a part-time (four hours a day) multi-task role. While the engagement was part-time, the nature of livestock-related work involves manual handling and minimum physical capability was therefore essential.
He further said that to ensure transparency, the physical tests were conducted by a committee headed by the Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil) and were videographed. Candidates may carry the prescribed weight in any manner comfortable to them, carrying on the head was not required. Any deviation from the notified procedure would be examined.
So far, 315 candidates have undergone the physical test and no injuries have been reported. He said that the department remains committed to fairness, safety and dignity of all candidates and urges the public to rely on the notified policy rather than selective or misleading portrayals.
