Regional Review Meeting Emphasizes Progress in Animal Husbandry and Dairy Sectors in Western States

New Delhi:  Secretary of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Smt Alka Upadhyaya, chaired a crucial Regional Review Meeting in New Delhi, focusing on the progress of the implementation of various programs and schemes in the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairy across Western States and Union Territories (UTs). The meeting brought together key officials from Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Daman and Diu.

During the meeting, Smt Alka Upadhyaya conducted a comprehensive review of the physical and financial advancements in schemes such as Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM), Entrepreneurship Development under National Livestock Mission (NLM), National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP), Dairy Processing & Infrastructure Development Fund (DIDF), National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD), and Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF).

A major focus of the discussion was the efficient utilization and disposal of unspent balances within the Western States and UTs under these schemes. Smt Alka Upadhyaya urged states to promptly finalize and submit their annual action plans and financial demands for the fiscal year 2024-25 to the Central Government.

Addressing productivity concerns, the Secretary highlighted the need for breed improvement, effective vaccination, and increased production of feed and fodder. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing dairy product exports and developing disease-free zones to facilitate international trade.

Livestock insurance emerged as a significant aspect of the discussion, with Smt Alka Upadhyaya urging states to concentrate on fodder seed production and infrastructure development to enhance healthcare services. She encouraged states to actively promote entrepreneurship in the Animal Husbandry and Dairying sector, leveraging the benefits of Entrepreneurship Development under National Livestock Mission (NLM) and Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF). Additionally, she emphasized the establishment of Milk Producer Companies, in conjunction with dairy cooperatives, as a strategic approach to strengthen the dairy industry.

The Regional Review Meeting served as a platform for collaboration and strategic planning to further enhance the progress and impact of animal husbandry and dairy-related initiatives in Western States and UTs.