Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying

When it comes to the well-being of livestock and the development of the dairy industry, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying plays a crucial role. This government department is responsible for implementing various policies and programs that aim to improve animal health, enhance milk production, and promote the overall growth of the livestock sector. Let's take a closer look at the functions and initiatives undertaken by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying.

What is the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying?

The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is a government body in charge of formulating and implementing policies and programs for the development of animal husbandry, dairy, and livestock welfare in India. It operates under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying and works towards ensuring the sustainable growth of the livestock sector.

What are the key functions of the Department?

The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying has several key functions that contribute to the welfare of livestock and the growth of the dairy industry:

1. Formulating policies and programs: The department formulates policies and programs related to animal husbandry, dairy development, and livestock welfare. These policies are designed to address the challenges faced by the sector and promote its sustainable growth.

2. Animal health and disease control: Ensuring the health and well-being of animals is a top priority for the department. It implements various measures to prevent and control the outbreak of diseases among livestock. Vaccination programs, disease surveillance, and diagnostic facilities are some of the initiatives undertaken.

3. Breed improvement and conservation: The department focuses on improving the genetic potential of livestock through selective breeding programs. It promotes the use of superior germplasm and implements measures for the conservation of indigenous breeds.

4. Enhancing milk production: To meet the growing demand for milk and dairy products, the department implements programs to enhance milk production. This includes promoting scientific dairy farming practices, providing training and extension services to farmers, and supporting the establishment of dairy infrastructure.

5. Livestock insurance: The department facilitates livestock insurance schemes to protect farmers from the financial risks associated with livestock rearing. These schemes provide coverage against natural calamities, diseases, and accidents.

What are the initiatives undertaken by the Department?

The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying has launched several initiatives to promote livestock welfare and dairy development:

1. National Livestock Mission: This mission aims to ensure holistic development of the livestock sector by providing support for breed improvement, feed and fodder development, animal health care, and skill development of farmers.

2. Rashtriya Gokul Mission: The mission focuses on the conservation and development of indigenous cattle breeds. It aims to enhance the productivity and genetic potential of these breeds through selective breeding and the establishment of Gokul Grams (indigenous cattle farms).

3. National Kamdhenu Breeding Center: This initiative aims to promote the use of high-yielding indigenous breeds for improving milk production. The center provides quality breeding services and superior germplasm to farmers.

4. Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme: This scheme provides financial assistance to entrepreneurs for setting up modern dairy farms, milk processing plants, and other dairy infrastructure. It aims to promote entrepreneurship in the dairy sector and create employment opportunities.

5. National Animal Disease Control Program: This program aims to control and eradicate major livestock diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease and Brucellosis. It includes mass vaccination campaigns, disease surveillance, and monitoring of disease-free zones.

The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying plays a vital role in ensuring the welfare of livestock and the growth of the dairy industry. Through its policies, programs, and initiatives, it strives to create a conducive environment for farmers, promote sustainable practices, and meet the increasing demand for milk and dairy products. By focusing on animal health, breed improvement, and dairy development, the department contributes to the overall growth and prosperity of the livestock sector in India.