Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for Self-Reliant India amidst Corona crisis, the centre and Agriculture Ministry has come up with many new reforms and initiatives in the farming sector. In the 3rd tranche of measures on the mega economic stimulus to tackle the coronavirus crisis, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has announced different plans to strengthen Agriculture Infrastructure Logistics, Capacity Building, Governance and Administrative Reforms for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Processing Sectors.
Moreover, the government has launched “National Animal Disease Control Programme” to ensure 100% vaccination of cattle, buffalo, sheep, goat and pig population (total 53 crore animals) for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and for brucellosis.
National Animal Disease Control Programme
National Animal Disease Control Programme for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Brucellosis launched with total outlay of Rs. 13,343 crore to ensure 100% vaccination of cattle, buffalo, sheep, goat and pig population (total 53 crore animals) for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and for brucellosis. Till date, 1.5 crore cows & buffaloes tagged and vaccinated.
Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund - Rs. 15,000 crore
An Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund of Rs. 15,000 crore will be set up, with an aim to support private investment in Dairy Processing, value addition and cattle feed infrastructure. Incentives will be given for establishing plants for the export of niche products.
Beekeeping initiatives – Rs 500 crore
The government will implement a scheme for:
Infrastructure development related to Integrated Beekeeping Development Centres, Collection, Marketing and Storage Centres, Post-Harvest & value Addition facilities etc;
Implementation of standards & developing a traceability system
Capacity building with thrust on women;
Development of quality nucleus stock and bee breeders.
This will lead to an increase in income for 2 lakh beekeepers and quality honey to consumers.
