Animal Husbandry Schemes for Livestock and Poultry in India | AgriInsights

Government Schemes for Animal Husbandry

Animal Husbandry (Livestock) and poultry farming play a vital role in the agricultural landscape, contributing significantly to food security, rural employment, and economic development. Recognizing the importance of this sector, governments around the world, including India, have implemented various schemes to support and empower farmers engaged in livestock and poultry farming. In this blog, we will delve into some of the key government schemes to promote the well-being of livestock and poultry farmers.

Table of Contents

List of Government Schemes for Livestock and Poultry in India

Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM)

The Rashtriya Gokul Mission focuses on the conservation and development of indigenous cattle breeds. By establishing Gokul Grams and promoting scientific breeding techniques, the mission aims to enhance the genetic potential of indigenous cattle. This contributes to increased milk productivity and income for farmers.
The Government launched the Rashtriya Gokul Mission in December 2014 under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairy. The initiative would also be extended under the Rashtriya Pashudhan Vikas Yojna from 2021 to 2026, with a budget of Rs. 2400 crore.

National Livestock Mission (NLM)

The Government of India launched the National Livestock Mission in 2014–15 on the initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare to support the sustainable growth of the livestock sector. It includes several submissions, such as poultry development, pig development, and small ruminant development. Farmers are given financial help through NLM for infrastructure development, breed improvement, and capacity building.

National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD)

The National Programme for Dairy Development, which was introduced in February 2014, intends to improve the quality of milk and milk products while increasing the share of organized procurement, processing, value addition, and marketing.

National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP)

In September 2019, the Hon'ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP), aiming to control and eradicate various animal diseases. The program primarily focuses on addressing diseases affecting livestock, including cattle, buffalo, sheep, and goats.

Dairy Processing & Infrastructure Development Fund (DIDF)

The Government of India implemented the Dairy Processing and Infrastructure Development Fund (DIDF), which was announced in the Union Budget of 2017–18. The scheme aims to support the modernization and creation of additional infrastructure in the dairy sector. The primary focus of DIDF is to enhance milk processing capacities and upgrade technology in dairy processing units.

Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF)

The Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) was launched by the Government of India on June 24, 2020, to actively assist the development of infrastructure in the animal husbandry sector. AHIDF's principal goal is to improve the productivity and efficiency of animal husbandry techniques by providing financial help for the development of new infrastructure.  

Pashu Kisan Credit Card (PKCC)

Inspired by Kisan Credit Cards, the Haryana government introduced the Pashu Kisan Credit Card to provide hassle-free credit to livestock farmers. This card facilitates easy access to loans for purchasing feed, veterinary care, and other inputs necessary for livestock and poultry farming. 

Sub-Mission on Livestock Extension (SMLE)

The goal of SMLE is to improve extension services for livestock and poultry farming. It empowers farmers with the information and skills required for better management practices by offering training and technical assistance. 

National Poultry Development Scheme (NPDS)

The NPDS, which focuses particularly on poultry farming, attempts to increase egg and meat production. It offers financial aid for the creation of layer and broiler units, as well as assistance with capacity building, disease management, and market connections.

Conclusion
Government schemes for livestock and poultry are crucial in fostering sustainable agricultural practices, improving farmers' income, and ensuring food security. These initiatives reflect a commitment to the holistic development of the agricultural sector. Farmers are encouraged to take advantage of these schemes to enhance their productivity, improve the quality of their livestock, and ultimately contribute to the nation's economic growth. As these schemes evolve, policymakers need to engage with stakeholders, gather feedback, and adapt strategies to meet the changing needs of the farming community.
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