Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has introduced a digital livestock management system aimed at overhauling service delivery and improving transparency in a sector central to the rural economy.

The initiative was inaugurated by Muhammad Sohail Afridi, who described livestock as a critical pillar of rural livelihoods and emphasised the government's commitment to modernising the sector through digital reforms.

The Livestock Management Information System (LMIS) is designed to integrate services into a centralised platform linking farmers, veterinary hospitals, mobile units, field staff and research institutions. Officials say the system will streamline administrative processes, enhance operational efficiency and strengthen accountability.

Under the new framework, key services such as vaccination, treatment and artificial insemination will be digitally tracked, allowing closer monitoring of delivery and outcomes. Authorities also plan to establish a toll-free helpline to provide farmers with direct access to expert advice and technical support.

A significant feature of the system is the creation of a geo-tagged database of livestock farmers and animals across the province. Records will include details such as breed, age and gender, while the procurement and use of medicines and vaccines will also be monitored.

Animals will be identified using QR codes, and a real-time disease surveillance mechanism will be introduced to enable early detection and rapid response. Officials believe this will strengthen disease prevention and improve overall livestock management.

The move signals a shift towards digital governance in the agricultural sector, with the aim of delivering more efficient services and improving outcomes for farmers.