Services can change. Last checked against official sources on 08-10-2026. Availability differs by state and district.
1962 is a toll-free number for Mobile Veterinary Units (MVUs): vans with veterinary staff that come to farmers’ doorsteps to treat livestock. This guide explains what the service does, where it runs, and how to make the most of a call. For more on cattle care, visit our cow hub.
What 1962 is
- The central government’s Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying delivers veterinary healthcare “at farmer’s door step through Mobile Veterinary Units”, which people reach through the toll-free number 1962. [S1]
- MVUs provide disease diagnosis, treatment, vaccination and minor surgical interventions. [S2]
- When you call, the nearest available MVU is sent to your location. [S3]
Where it runs
As of August 2025, the government reported 4,019 MVUs operational across 29 States and Union Territories. [S1] It didn’t publish a state-wise list in that answer, so if 1962 doesn’t connect where you are, ask your district’s animal husbandry office.
What to say when you call
- Your name, village or locality, and a landmark
- The animal: cow, buffalo, goat and so on, its age if you know it, and its ear tag number if it has one
- The problem: what you see, when it started, whether the animal is eating and standing
- Whether it’s an emergency, such as heavy bleeding or difficult calving
Keep the animal in shade with water while you wait, if it’s safe to do so.
What 1962 isn’t
- Not a cruelty-reporting line. For cruelty, see our animal cruelty helpline guide.
- Not mainly for pets or street animals. The official descriptions focus on farmers’ livestock. [S1] [S2]
- Not a substitute for 112 if people are hurt, for example in a road accident. See what to do if a cow is hit by a car.
The Pawsitive Hoomans Take
If you keep cattle, save 1962 in your phone today. Having your animals’ ear tag numbers and vaccination records ready when you call makes the vet’s job much easier.
🐄 Our free Vaccination Tracker builds a cattle schedule based on NDDB guidance, and a Pet Passport keeps each animal’s records and ear tag number ready for the vet.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 1962 helpline?
The toll-free number for Mobile Veterinary Units, which bring veterinary care for livestock to farmers’ doorsteps. [S1]
What do Mobile Veterinary Units do?
Disease diagnosis, treatment, vaccination and minor surgical interventions. [S2]
Is 1962 available in every state?
The government reported 4,019 MVUs across 29 States and Union Territories as of August 2025. [S1] Check with your district animal husbandry office if it doesn’t connect.
Is 1962 free?
The number is toll-free. [S1]
Sources and last checked
- [S1] Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Lok Sabha Unstarred Question 3885 (12 August 2025) – eparlib.sansad.in (PDF) – Last checked: 08-10-2026
- [S2] Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Lok Sabha Unstarred Question 1267 (30 July 2024) – eparlib.nic.in (PDF) – Last checked: 08-10-2026
- [S3] Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, letter on establishment of MVUs – dahd.gov.in (PDF) – Last checked: 08-10-2026
Disclaimer: PawsitiveHoomans is an independent information resource and is not affiliated with the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying. If an animal is in distress, contact a veterinarian.