Know About the Govt Schemes & Subsidies Empowering Goat Farming for Farmers
Government-backed schemes and subsidies are breathing new life into goat farming, offering farmers a lucrative opportunity to diversify their income sources and contribute to the sustainable growth of the agricultural sector.
In a significant boost to the agricultural sector, the government, in partnership with the National Bank of Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and local banks, has introduced schemes aimed at promoting goat farming. These initiatives offer crucial financial support to aspiring goat farmers, contributing to the diversification of income sources in the farming community. Under the umbrella of the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF), these schemes are administered by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairy.
The Rising Popularity of Goat Farming:
Animal husbandry businesses are on the rise, with farmers increasingly turning to rearing animals for additional income. Among these endeavors, goat farming has emerged as a multifunctional and economically significant option for marginal farmers across the country. Goats are prized for their dual utility, providing both milk and meat, with a global demand that continues to grow.
Government Support for Goat Farming:
Governments at both the central and state levels have stepped in to ease the financial burden on goat farmers. For instance, the state government of Haryana offers an impressive subsidy of up to 90% to promote goat farming, while the Central Government extends subsidies of up to 35% for goat rearing. In Madhya Pradesh, farmers can access subsidies of nearly 60% for goat rearing, in addition to potential concessions through the Pashu Kisan Credit Card scheme, a central government initiative.
Also Read: Profitable Goat Farming: Get High Returns with These Three High-Yield Goat Breeds
Starting Small, Earning Big:
For those considering entering the world of goat farming, it's advisable to begin with a minimum of 20 goats. This modest investment can yield annual earnings of up to Rs 2,50,000. Goat meat, known as chevon, enjoys worldwide popularity, often surpassing the consumption of beef or pork. Goat milk, prized for its digestibility, adds another dimension to the profitability of goat rearing.
Advantages of Goat Farming:
- Low initial investment compared to other livestock ventures.
- Goats are 2.5 times more economically efficient than sheep.
- Reduced housing requirements and management complexities due to their smaller size.
- Ideal for mixed-species grazing, promoting sustainable land use.
- Goat meat is lean and low in cholesterol, while goat milk is easily digestible.
Selecting the Right Breed:
Successful goat farming encompasses more than just milk production. It involves selecting improved goat breeds and providing appropriate care throughout the seasons. With around 21 goat breeds available in India, choosing the right breed is crucial for maximizing profits.
A Growing Trend Across States:
The trend of goat rearing is gaining momentum in states like Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, where farmers are embracing it as an additional source of income. Loans for goat farming are readily available through various financial institutions, including SBI, NABARD, Canara Bank, the Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency (MUDRA) loan scheme, and IDBI Bank, facilitating the expansion of this promising agricultural venture.
In conclusion, government-backed schemes and subsidies are breathing new life into goat farming, offering farmers a lucrative opportunity to diversify their income sources and contribute to the sustainable growth of the agricultural sector. With the right breed selection, care, and financial support, goat farming is emerging as a viable and profitable venture for farmers across India.
