New Delhi: In a wide-reaching digital initiative, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, conducted a “Virtual Awareness Programme for Enhancing Livestock Productivity” on August 20, 2025. The event saw the participation of over 1 lakh livestock farmers, connecting through more than 2,000 Common Service Centers (CSCs) across major states and Union Territories. Union Minister of State, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, chaired the session from New Delhi with senior DAHD officials, engaging directly with the rural backbone of India’s dairy and animal husbandry sector.
Achievements in Indian Livestock: Surpassing Global Growth
During his address, Prof. Baghel highlighted India’s remarkable strides in livestock productivity, particularly in milk production. “India’s milk production has grown at an annual rate of 5.7% over the past decade, significantly outpacing the global average growth rate of 2% per annum,” he noted. This, he said, stands as a testament to the hard work and dedication of India’s livestock farmers and ongoing efforts by government departments to modernize and support the sector.
Emphasis on Insurance, Vaccination, and Access to Services
A key highlight was Prof. Baghel’s call for farmers to proactively insure their animals and ensure regular vaccinations as per the recommended schedule. Stressing the vital role of animal health services, he encouraged wider utilization of the toll-free number 1962, a dedicated veterinary helpline for prompt treatment-related assistance and information.
The Minister also praised innovative departmental initiatives such as the use of Sex-Sorted Semen (SSS), which has played a critical role in breed improvement and increased productivity. He engaged with farmers to assess the availability and accessibility of veterinary services on the ground, emphasizing the importance of robust support infrastructure and awareness for disease control and biosecurity.
Broad-Based Awareness: From Breed Improvement to Rural Entrepreneurship
The virtual programme was designed as an all-encompassing platform, creating awareness on crucial topics such as:
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Breed improvement and genetic advancement
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Zoonotic disease control and comprehensive vaccination drives
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Biosecurity measures in livestock management
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Entrepreneurship development, highlighting government schemes for rural self-employment
Sessions included expert addresses and educational videos, making complex technical information accessible. The event doubled as a policy awareness platform, fostering knowledge exchange and inspiring innovation among India’s livestock farmers.
Conclusion
The “Virtual Awareness Programme for Enhancing Livestock Productivity” underscored the government’s commitment to empowering farmers through grassroots awareness and proactive support. Reaffirming the essential role of livestock farmers in rural development and economic growth, Prof. Baghel urged all stakeholders to make full use of available schemes and resources. Initiatives such as routine animal insurance, adherence to vaccination schedules, and easy access to veterinary advice via the toll-free 1962 number are envisioned to further propel the sector towards resilience, productivity, and inclusive rural prosperity.
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Source: PIB
