CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Animal Husbandry and Dairy Minister Lakhan Patel stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, every effort is being made to double the income of farmers across the country and state. Animal husbandry activities play a crucial role in this endeavor. Farmers are provided nearly 50% subsidy for animal husbandry activities under departmental schemes, including the Chief Minister’s Animal Husbandry Development Scheme. Departmental officials are instructed to motivate farmers toward animal husbandry and ensure they receive the full benefits of government schemes. During the Chief Minister’s Welfare Campaign, animal husbandry camps should be organized at various locations, and more cases related to animal husbandry schemes should be approved.

Minister Patel conducted a state-level review meeting of the Animal Husbandry Department in the auditorium of the Directorate of Animal Husbandry. The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary for Animal Husbandry Umakant Umrao, the Director of Animal Husbandry, joint directors from all divisions, and other concerned officials.

Principal Secretary Umakant Umrao emphasized that officials should follow up with insurance officials to resolve pending animal insurance cases. If insurance companies unnecessarily withhold claims from farmers, cases should be filed with consumer forums. Ensuring that all farmers receive their insurance claim amounts is a priority.

During the divisional review, Minister Patel instructed that mobile veterinary vehicles under the department be properly maintained. This initiative has gained immense popularity, with a significant number of livestock owners availing treatment for their animals. The state currently has 406 lakh livestock, with one vehicle (via helpline 1962) operational for every one lakh livestock.

Minister Patel also directed that livestock farmers be encouraged to engage in poultry farming, goat rearing, pig farming, and fodder production under the National Livestock Mission. Selling Kadaknath poultry in major cities can bring substantial profits to livestock farmers. The Principal Secretary suggested linking women’s self-help groups to activities under the National Livestock Mission. It was proposed to the central government that each unit under the scheme should receive 100 poultry birds, compared to the current provision of 40 birds per unit.

Minister Patel also emphasized that for identifying pet and free-ranging animals, different-colored tags should be used. Under the Chief Minister’s Cattle Service Scheme, all necessary arrangements must be ensured for animals in cow shelters. Efforts should also be made to set up biogas plants in large cow shelters.

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