On January 13, 2025, the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, virtually inaugurated several significant initiatives aimed at transforming the dairy and livestock sector in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha. This event was organized by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying. The initiatives are designed to enhance rural livelihoods, improve livestock productivity, and tackle pressing nutritional challenges in the region.
Key Initiatives Unveiled
During the event, President Murmu launched the Cattle Induction Program under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission. This program aims to distribute 3,000 high-genetic-merit cattle to selected beneficiaries in Mayurbhanj. The initiative is part of a larger Productivity Enhancement project, which has an allocation of ₹37.45 crores over five years. The goal is to boost milk production, strengthen rural incomes, and promote sustainable livestock practices.
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Additionally, the Gift Milk Program was introduced to combat malnutrition among children. This program will provide 200 ml of flavored milk fortified with Vitamins A and D to around 1,200 schoolchildren in the district. The President expressed hope that these programs would serve as a model for similar interventions across the country. Another significant initiative launched was the Market Support Program, aimed at enhancing milk procurement, processing, and marketing in Odisha. This program seeks to double the state’s milk procurement capacity from 5 lakh liters per day to 10 lakh liters per day, ensuring better returns for farmers.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The inauguration event was attended by several prominent dignitaries, including Union Ministers and state officials. Union Minister Shri Rajeev Ranjan Singh, who oversees the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, emphasized the success of the Rashtriya Gokul Mission. He highlighted its contributions to breed improvement and productivity enhancement of indigenous bovine breeds.
Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, the Union Minister for Education, and Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, were also present. They acknowledged the importance of these initiatives in driving rural economic growth and improving market connectivity for farmers. Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, spoke about the vital role of livestock in fostering sustainable rural livelihoods and the state’s commitment to advancing the dairy sector through innovative programs.
The Future of Dairy Farming in India
In her address, President Murmu praised the DAHD for its forward-looking policies and innovative interventions in the dairy sector. She noted that India has emerged as a leader in milk production, achieving an impressive annual growth rate of 6% over the last decade. This growth has outpaced global trends, showcasing the potential of India’s dairy industry.
The President also stressed the importance of adopting advanced technologies, such as Artificial Insemination and sex-sorted semen, to enhance livestock productivity. These technologies can significantly increase the profitability of dairy farming, making it a more sustainable livelihood option for rural communities. The collective efforts of the government and various stakeholders are crucial for the continued growth and success of the dairy sector in India.
The event concluded with a strong commitment from all attendees to support these initiatives and work towards a prosperous future for the dairy and livestock sectors in Odisha and beyond.
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