In a major move to empower farmers and boost rural livelihoods, the Central Government of India has launched an ambitious subsidy scheme for animal husbandry. Under this scheme, eligible farmers can receive financial assistance of up to ₹25 lakh for engaging in sheep rearing, goat farming, and poultry production. The aim is to encourage sustainable livestock farming and increase income opportunities for rural households.
Objective of the Scheme
The primary goal of this scheme is to promote self-employment in rural India through livestock farming. With traditional agriculture facing challenges such as unpredictable weather, high input costs, and shrinking landholdings, animal husbandry offers an alternative and reliable source of income. The subsidy is designed to help farmers establish or expand their livestock units, improving both productivity and profitability.
Key Features
- Maximum Subsidy Amount: Farmers can receive up to ₹25 lakh in subsidies based on the size and type of livestock unit.
- Coverage: The scheme covers sheep farming, goat rearing, and poultry farming (both broiler and layer).
- Subsidy Structure: A percentage of the total project cost (ranging from 25% to 50%) will be provided as subsidy. The rest may be availed as a bank loan.
- Eligibility: The scheme is open to individual farmers, Self Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and rural youth with a genuine interest in animal husbandry.
- Women & SC/ST Benefits: Special provisions are made for women, SC, and ST beneficiaries with higher subsidy percentages.
Benefits to Farmers
- Financial Support: Farmers can use the subsidy to purchase livestock, build sheds, install feeding and watering systems, and buy equipment.
- Reduced Financial Burden: With government support, the dependency on high-interest loans is minimized.
- Income Generation: Well-managed poultry and livestock units can yield high profits within a few months of establishment.
- Employment Opportunities: This scheme not only benefits the direct beneficiaries but also creates employment in allied sectors like feed supply, veterinary care, and marketing.
How to Apply
- Visit the Official Website: Farmers can apply through the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying or respective State Agriculture Portals.
- Prepare a Project Report: A detailed project plan with budget, livestock count, and expected returns must be submitted.
- Bank Loan Application: Approach nationalized or cooperative banks for the remaining financial assistance.
- Submit Documents: Aadhar card, land documents, caste certificate (if applicable), and bank details are required.
- Inspection and Approval: After verification and inspection by the concerned department, the subsidy is sanctioned.
Final Thoughts
This central government initiative is a golden opportunity for farmers to diversify their income sources through sheep, goat, and poultry farming. With proper planning and execution, the ₹25 lakh subsidy can transform small-scale farmers into successful livestock entrepreneurs. Interested individuals should act promptly and apply through official channels to make the most of this scheme.
