The second phase of counselling for veterinary courses will be held during the third or fourth week of September, said S. Thilagar, Vice-Chancellor, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University.
The University had postponed the counselling until the completion of counselling for medical seats. As many as 55 students had dropped out after the first round of counselling to veterinary courses, Mr. Thilagar said.
The University had, in the meantime, received approval to add 100 seats in its various courses. While the number of seats in B.V.Sc had been increased to 60, courses including poultry technology and food technology had added 20 seats each.
Classes from October
From this year, 140 students would be admitted to the Madras Veterinary College, instead of 120. Similarly, colleges in Orathanadu and Tirunelveli have each been permitted to admit 20 more students.
Classes for the first year veterinary students would begin on October 1.
The University is also setting up a research station in Sivaganga and Kangeyam to develop the native breeds. “These species were used in jallikattu (bull fights). It is usually the practice to conduct research in locations native to the breed,” Mr. Thilagar said. The research stations were part of budget announcements for the year, the Vice-Chancellore added.
“We have chosen to breed Pulikulam in Sivaganga as it is the native tract for this breed,” an official said.
Around 90 animals would be purchased and then inseminated for the purpose of research.