She does not hold a degree in veterinary surgery or has received any specialisation in biotechnology but she is no less than any qualified veterinary general practitioner.

Popularly known as Doctor Didi among the rural populace of Angara Block located approximately 27 Km away from the State headquarters, Balamdina Tirkey has made a distinct name in merely a few years among those associated with ‘Veterinary Para Cadre’ here in Jharkhand.

Tirkey who has emerged as the State’s Brand Ambassador in the particular cadre for her incredible role as a ‘Pashu Sakhi’ was felicitated by Governor Draupadi Murmu and Chief Minister Raghubar Das in the presence of several dignitaries on the occasion of 18th Statehood Celebration ceremony organised in Ranchi on Thursday.Interestingly, a woman who loves to treat livestock and has been aiding the farmers of several panchayats at her block in keeping the domestic animals fit and healthy has just received formal education up to class five.

The State which is trying to maintain a harmonious accord in promoting industrialisation as well as bringing changes in the lives of the cultivators by endorsing a number of beneficial schemes had recently introduced a concept of ‘Pashu Sakhi’ – Animals friend.

The specialised cadre trains the interested women folks laying emphasis on vaccination, de-worming and treatment of minor disorders/ ailments of animals.

The idea has proved a boon for farm animals and has aided in taking ahead animal rearing businesses like pisciculture, poultry farming, pig rearing etc there.

After receiving training as ‘Pashu Sakhi’ under the guidance of Jharkhand State Livelihood Promotion Society (JSLPS), Tirkey has been providing essential medical assistance to a huge number of livestock at her respective block which comprises 82 villages and 23 panchayats at a nominal cost.With the support of the facilities being provided to the Pashu Sakhis, the villagers now do not have to wander from one place to another for getting their domestic animals treated, in case of any emergency.

Nearly all basic medical facilities are made available at the doorsteps of those in farming sectors. Tirkey leads a satisfied life with the patronage given to her by JSLPS including assistances provided to her by the villagers in cash or a kind.“After receiving the training, I am specialised in treating a few big domestic animals like pigs, oxen, cows, buffaloes, goats. In search of leading a dignified life, I chose to make my career as ‘Pashu Sakhi’. I am associated with a Self Help Group (SHG) named ‘Juhi’.

The SHG often gives chance to its members to attend the workshops organised under the guidance of JSLPS. My life has completely transformed after getting associated with SHG,” said the Doctor Didi recalling her early days.

Tirkey’s twinkle in her eyes reveals her journey from a homemaker to a professional.

Further sharing the details about her achievements, Tirkey added that she is also imparting training to a group of women who hails from Bihar about the preliminary methodologies of treating animals.

Notably, Jharkhand’s women SHG model has received much applaud from various States and the concept is being adopted by a number of organisations working under other different State governments.“I have been identified as Chief Resource Person (CRP) in formulation of SHG in Bihar Government including other States too.

It is a matter of pride for Jharkhand as well as for me to incorporate my learning and experience among all those who wants to take their respective States ahead in animal rearing sector,” she asserted.

Recollecting the facts about her past going down the memory lane, Tirkey said that during her struggle days, she used to travel in bi-cycle and sensitise public about animals’ wellbeing. “During my struggle days, I used to go in bicycle to address the complain cases, later, I purchased a two-wheeler and now I am able to attend more number of cases,” Tirkey added. Her dedication towards her work has helped her to grow both personally and professionally, carving a niche in the society. Today Tirkey earns Rs. 3 to 5 thousand even on those days when she is at her home.