Context:- India’s Rashtriya Gokul Mission, aimed at improving indigenous cattle breeds. It is facing a critical juncture nearly a decade into its implementation. Rather than elevating the quality of all indigenous breeds as intended, the scheme inadvertently promotes a single indigenous variety—the Gir cow—across the nation. This trajectory, if unchecked, poses a threat to the purity of indigenous breeds countrywide.
About Rashtriya Gokul Mission
This mission continues as part of the Department’s revised scheme from 2021-22 to 2025-26, with an allocated budget of Rs 2400 crore. Information about the Nationwide Artificial Insemination Programme is available online through the Information Network on Animal Productivity and Health (INAPH) database.
Key Components
- National Programme for Bovine Breeding (NPBB) focuses on research and development of high-quality semen to boost the likelihood of female calf births.
- National Mission on Bovine Productivity (NMBP) involves establishing semen stations. Thus to ensure convenient access to top-quality semen for livestock rearers nationwide.
Implemented By: The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
Objectives
- Enhance bovine productivity and sustainable milk production through advanced technologies.
- Encourage the use of high genetic merit bulls for breeding.
- Expand Artificial Insemination coverage by fortifying breeding networks and providing doorstep services.
- Promote the scientific and holistic rearing and conservation of indigenous cattle and buffalo.
Funding
Under RGM, subsidies of Rs 4 crore, 1 crore, 60 lakh, and 50 lakh respectively are provided for cow, buffalo, pig, chicken, and goat breeding farms, and silage making units. The Government of India offers 50% of the subsidy, with an additional 3% interest subvention available on the loan amount.
Significance
The mission holds significance in boosting milk production and enhancing bovine productivity. Henceforth meeting the escalating demand for milk and making dairying more financially rewarding for rural farmers across the country.
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