Ankara Metropolitan Municipality (ABB) has initiated a pioneering ‘Veterinary Services Project’ to bolster rural development, marking a first in Turkey. This initiative, a collaboration between ABB and the Ankara Chamber of Veterinary Surgeons, aims to alleviate the financial burden of veterinary care for small family farms. Applications for the project are currently open and will be accepted until April 1, 2026.
Comprehensive Support for Livestock Farmers
The project is designed to benefit producers with 1-20 cattle or 1-200 small ruminants, providing crucial support for their veterinary expenses. Hasan Hüseyin Karakuş, Branch Manager of Animal Husbandry Services at ABB’s Rural Services Department, emphasized the project’s goal: “Our aim is to sustain production, contribute to it, and enable breeders to earn more income.”
Under this program, livestock owners will receive financial assistance for a range of veterinary services, including artificial insemination, vaccinations, medication, medicinal treatments, and surgical interventions. A portion of the costs for these services, obtained from independent veterinary surgeons, will be covered by support funds loaded onto their Başkent Cards. These support payments will be disbursed twice a year.
Application Process and Eligibility
Producers in Ankara can submit their applications online via the official website, https://baskenttarim.ankara.bel.tr/, until April 1, 2026. This streamlined application process ensures that eligible farmers can easily access the much-needed support.
A First in Turkey: Boosting Rural Economy
This initiative stands out as the first of its kind in Turkey, showcasing ABB’s commitment to rural development and the welfare of its agricultural community. By subsidizing veterinary expenses, the municipality aims to reduce operational costs for farmers, thereby encouraging continued production and enhancing their overall income. This strategic investment in the rural economy is expected to have a positive ripple effect, strengthening the agricultural sector in the region.
Impact on Veterinary Professionals
The project also benefits independent veterinary surgeons in the districts by ensuring a steady demand for their services and facilitating timely payments through the Başkent Card system. This collaboration fosters a symbiotic relationship between the municipality, producers, and veterinary professionals, creating a sustainable ecosystem for animal health and welfare.
Long-Term Vision for Agricultural Growth
ABB’s ‘Veterinary Services Project’ is part of a broader vision to support sustainable agricultural practices and improve the livelihoods of rural communities in Ankara. By addressing one of the significant cost burdens for livestock farmers, the municipality is paving the way for a more resilient and prosperous agricultural sector. This forward-thinking approach is anticipated to serve as a model for other regions in Turkey looking to boost their rural economies.
