- Scheme Approval and Focus:
- The Union Cabinet approved a sustainable livestock health and production scheme with a budget of ₹1,702 crore to boost farmers’ income through better livestock and dairy management. The scheme covers animal health, dairy technology, genetic resource management, and animal nutrition.
- Significance of Livestock Sector:
- India has the world’s largest livestock population and is the leading producer of buffalo meat and milk. Livestock contributes 30.19% of Agricultural GVA and 5.73% of Total GVA (2021-22). It is a key livelihood source for over 70% of rural households and supports food and nutritional security.
- Challenges in the Livestock Sector:
- Issues include animal diseases (e.g., Foot and Mouth Disease), inadequate veterinary infrastructure, low productivity, high antibiotic use, and unorganized meat production. Other challenges are low insurance coverage (15.47% of animals), fodder shortage, and significant methane emissions.
- Government Initiatives:
- Programs like Rashtriya Gokul Mission, National Livestock Mission, and National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP) focus on breed improvement, capacity building, disease control, and dairy modernization. Extension of Kisan Credit Card (KCC) to livestock farmers also supports the sector.
- Way Forward for Improvement:
- Suggestions include mobile veterinary services, increasing insurance coverage, promoting livestock-based integrated farming systems, improving market access, and leveraging digital platforms for better value chains. A national review of staffing and training in veterinary services is also recommended.
- Environmental Considerations:
- Addressing the sector’s impact on greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable practices are essential for balancing livestock productivity with environmental sustainability.