Imphal, October 30: Directorate of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Services, Manipur organised a on-day training programme on the theme of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in the conference hall of State Guest House here today.

Commissioner of Veterinary P Saratchandra Singh, Deputy Commissioner of Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India MK Shah and Director of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Services Dr Th Dorendra Singh attended the inaugural function of the training programme as chief guest, guest of honour and president respectively.

In his address as chief guest of the function, P Sharatchandra said there is always the lurking fear of the possibility of outbreak of Bird flu in Manipur because of its proximity with the neighbouring country of Mynamar where there is great chances of outbreak of epidemic all the time.

So the people of Manipur specially those who are engaged in poultry activities should remain alert even if India has been declared as Bird Flu free country, he said.

He also noted that sincerity of the employees working in the Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Department is essential in present outbreak of the Avian Influenza, which could also affect human life.

MK Shah, who attended the function as guest of honour observed with the onset of winter many migratory birds would start flocking to Manipur.

So necessary precautionary measures should be taken up as the possibility of spreading the Bird flu by these migratory birds is very high.

Although the Government of India has declared India as Bird flu free country on April 6 this year, the chances of outbreak of the avian influenza is still very high in Manipur, he also pointed out.

In view of this, State Government and Departments concerned as well as the people should be cautious and remain alerted, he added.

Around 40 trainees took part in the training programme.