Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced the launch of the “Mukhyamantri Kamadhenu Yojana” at the ‘Monsoon Meet’ organized by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India. The ambitious scheme, backed by a ₹1,423 crore investment over five years, aims to significantly enhance milk production in the state. Majhi highlighted the importance of this initiative in strengthening the dairy sector and supporting rural farmers, aligning with the broader vision of improving India’s food security and economic development.
In his address, Chief Minister Majhi emphasized that the “Mukhyamantri Kamadhenu Yojana” will focus on several key areas to boost dairy production. The scheme will support small dairy units, provide subsidized calf feed to ensure the health and productivity of young cattle, and enhance livestock insurance to protect farmers from financial losses due to health issues with their livestock. It also aims to strengthen dairy cooperatives by improving infrastructure and support systems, thereby streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency.
Majhi also revealed that Odisha has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) to further support state dairy cooperatives and increase milk production. As part of this collaboration, the state will establish a vaccine production unit in Berhampur and a state-of-the-art feed analytical laboratory in Bhubaneswar.
Additionally, to support rural farmers beyond dairy, Majhi introduced the “Prani Sampad Samrudhhi Yojana,” which promotes the rearing of goats, sheep, and poultry. Another initiative, the “Mukhyamantri Prani Kalyan Yojana,” was launched to enhance the welfare of stray and neglected animals.
In line with his government’s “Bikashita Odisha 2036” vision, Majhi announced plans for an integrated center that will provide 24-hour animal health services directly to farmers’ doorsteps. This initiative is expected to improve the accessibility and quality of veterinary care for rural communities significantly.
During the event, Majhi also inaugurated several new projects, including a unit of the Central Poultry Development Organization, OMFED’s new Gold Plus milk packet, a Kisan Credit Card campaign, and the National Label Monitor app. Additionally, he launched a coffee table book showcasing the success stories of 101 women in the animal husbandry sector.
Union Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh reaffirmed the Central Government’s commitment to supporting Odisha’s animal husbandry sector, pledging continued collaboration to drive growth. Minister of Fisheries and Animal Resources, Gokulananda Mallik, highlighted ongoing progress in the sector, including support for gaushalas, animal rescue centers, and helpline services.
Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja noted the significant reliance of Odisha’s population on agriculture and animal husbandry for their livelihoods. He emphasized the state’s commitment to increasing milk and egg production to further support farmers.
The event saw participation from Union Ministers of State SP Singh Baghel and George Kurian, Union Secretary Alka Upadhyay, National Dairy Development Board Chairman Minesh Shah, and ministers from various states, including Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, and Maharashtra.