United Nations, Jan 25 (IANS): A free veterinary camp was conducted by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan's (UNMISS) Indian battalion in the Upper Nile state capital Malakal, the authorities said here.

Some 40 animals received treatment during the free veterinary camp Wednesday, said a press release from the UN peacekeeping mission's Public Affairs Office.

The one-day camp, opened by Minister for Animal Resources and Fisheries Joseph Deng Faraj, is another in a series of free veterinary and medical camps the battalion has held in the state over the last two years.

In addition to treating over 14,500 animals last year, the battalion trained about 30 veterinarians.

Faraj welcomed continued support from the Indian contingent, especially given the importance of livestock to livelihoods of South Sudanese citizens.

The battalion is also operating a veterinary clinic at Upper Nile University in Malakal to build the capacity of students enrolled at the university's veterinary college.

The Security Council established the South Sudan mission in July 2011. The peacekeepers are on the ground to consolidate peace and security and to help establish conditions for development. India currently contributes nearly 2,000 peacekeepers to the mission.