Notes For All Chapters – Balbharati English Class 6
Sushruta (A Peep into the Past)
Who was Sushruta?
- Sushruta was an ancient Indian doctor.
- He is called the ‘Father of Indian Medicine,’ ‘Father of Surgery,’ and ‘Father of Plastic Surgery.’
- He wrote a book called Sushruta Samhita, one of the oldest medical books in the world.
Veterinary Science in Ancient India
- In old times, doctors treated both humans and animals.
- Special books like Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Harita Samhita had knowledge about treating animals.
- Some doctors only treated animals. The most famous among them was Shalihotra, known as the ‘Father of Veterinary Science.’
Shalihotra’s Lesson to Sushruta
- Shalihotra once asked Sushruta what was needed for surgery on a horse.
- Sushruta listed many things, but Shalihotra said three things were missing.
- After watching his teacher for a week, Sushruta found the answers:
- An eagle’s eye – A veterinarian should observe carefully.
- A lion’s heart – A veterinarian should be brave and confident.
- A mother’s touch – A veterinarian should be kind and caring.
Veterinary Science in History
Shalihotra wrote a book called Asvayurveda Siddhanta (a book on horse medicine).
Nakula, one of the Pandavas, was also an expert in horse treatment and wrote Asva Chikitsa.
During Chandragupta Maurya’s time (300 BC), animal doctors traveled with armies to treat horses, elephants, and cattle.
Emperor Ashoka built the first veterinary hospitals in the world.
Care for Animals in Ancient India
- People in ancient India took good care of animals.
- They ensured animals had clean living spaces, good food, and proper care.
- Overfeeding animals was avoided.
- Animal products were used wisely, such as:
- Milk → Butter, ghee, curd
- Chicken → Meat
- Sheep → Wool
Conclusion
- India had a great history in veterinary sciences.
- However, not many people choose it as a career today.
- India, being an agriculture-based country, needs more veterinarians who care for animals.
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