Desi Cow Husbandry Promotion Scheme: Get 75% Subsidy on Opening Dairy Farm for Indigenous Breeds

In the present era, the agriculture and animal husbandry domains play a vital role in the nation's economy. In rural regions, animal husbandry has emerged as a crucial income source for farmers and herders. It has also become a significant avenue for earning and employment for over half of the rural populace. Both the Central and State Governments are implementing multiple initiatives to integrate farming with animal husbandry and dairy ventures alongside agriculture.

Recognizing the potential for steady income and employment in animal husbandry, the Bihar government is fostering the rearing of indigenous cows through the "Desi Cow Husbandry Promotion Scheme." This initiative aims to bolster the local economy by linking farmers with animal husbandry. Delve into the details of the scheme, benefits & application procedure.

Introducing the "Desi Cow Husbandry Promotion Scheme" by the Bihar government, a special initiative aimed at nurturing indigenous cows and boosting rural employment. Eligible farmers and herders can receive 40 to 75% subsidies for establishing dairy farms, procuring cows, and arranging fodder. The scheme strives to enhance indigenous cow rearing, generate livelihood opportunities, and strengthen rural economies.

Eligibility & Criteria

- The scheme encompasses landless, small, and marginal farmers, those below the poverty line, educated unemployed youth, and women across Bihar.

- Applicants should be under 55 years of age.

- Preference will be given to those trained by the department, members of milk cooperative societies, and self-help groups.

- A minimum of 5 kattha of land is required for a 2 to 4 cow/calf-heifer dairy unit, while at least 10 kattha is necessary for a 15 to 20 cow/calf-heifer unit, ensuring access to green fodder.

Subsidy & Categories

- Subsidies will be granted for setting up a dairy of up to 20 cows for all categories.

- Backward class/scheduled caste/tribe beneficiaries will receive a 75% subsidy, while others will get 50% for 2 to 4 indigenous cow/calf-heifer units.

- For 2, 4, 15, and 20 desi cows/heifers (Sahiwal, Gir, Tharparkar), all beneficiaries will receive up to 40% subsidy.

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Subsidy Amount

- Setting up a dairy of 2 indigenous cows/heifers is estimated at Rs. 2,42,000. Extremely Backward Classes/Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes will receive a maximum subsidy of Rs. 1,81,500, while others will get 50% or a maximum of Rs. 1,21,000.

- Opening a 4 cow/heifer dairy has a cost of Rs. 5,20,000, with maximum subsidies of Rs. 3,90,000 for certain groups and Rs. 2,60,000 for others.

- Establishing a 15 cow/heifer (Sahiwal, Gir, Tharparkar) dairy is priced at Rs. 20,20,000, with a maximum subsidy of Rs. 8,08,000.

- Launching a 20 cow/heifer dairy involves a cost of Rs. 26,70,000, with all categories eligible for a maximum subsidy of Rs. 10,68,000 or 40%.

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Application Process

Interested beneficiaries can apply online at https://dairy.bihar.gov.in/Default.aspx by September 1, 2023. The scheme's implementation will be supervised by the District Cow Development Officer. Beneficiaries may need to bear additional expenses if dairy unit costs exceed the administration's set value.

The "Desi Gopalan Protsahan Yojana" emerges as an opportunity for the rural populace, promoting indigenous cow rearing, creating livelihoods, and supporting the vision of self-sufficient milk production in Bihar.

In conclusion, the "Desi Cow Husbandry Promotion Scheme" launched by the Bihar government stands as a commendable initiative to uplift rural economies and encourage indigenous cow rearing. By offering substantial subsidies for establishing dairy farms and procuring cows, the scheme not only supports local farmers and herders but also paves the way for self-sufficient milk production in the region. This forward-thinking program recognizes the importance of animal husbandry as a source of livelihood and employment, while also preserving the heritage of native breeds. With its focus on sustainability and rural empowerment, the scheme holds the promise of fostering a stronger and more resilient agricultural landscape in Bihar.

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