In recent years, there has been a renewed emphasis on promoting the breeding of indigenous cows, with both central and state governments working to support farmers and herders in this endeavour.
The Bihar Government has introduced the Desi Gaupalan Protosahan Yojana 2023-24 to specifically foster the growth of Desi Gaupalan, an indigenous cow breed.
This initiative aims to provide substantial subsidies ranging from 40 to 75 percent to feed suppliers and cattle herders in Bihar. The primary objective of the scheme is to encourage milk production and the conservation of native cow breeds within the state.
Under the scheme, a maximum of 20 cows will be eligible for subsidy. Those falling under the OBC, ST, and SE categories will receive a 75 percent subsidy, while all other categories will receive a 40 percent subsidy. The scheme is open to various types of farmers, including landless, small, marginal, and below poverty line farmers, who can apply for the program. The administration of this scheme will be overseen by the Cow Development Officer in the respective district's department.
Priority will be given to applicants who have received training from the selection department, members of dairy cooperatives, and individuals belonging to self-help groups. The cost of establishing a dairy farm with two indigenous cows will be supported with an expenditure of ₹2,42,000. In addition, a subsidy of ₹1,81,500 will be extended to OBC/SC/ST category farmers and cattle herders under this scheme, while farmers and herders from other categories will receive a subsidy of ₹1,21,000.
For those aspiring to initiate dairy farming with native cows, the scheme will cover expenses of up to ₹5,20,000. Accordingly, the most backward category will be eligible for a subsidy of ₹3,90,000, while farmers and cattle herders from other categories will receive a subsidy of ₹2,60,000.
The price of 15 native cows amounts to ₹20,20,000, with an additional subsidy of ₹8,08,000 for all categories of farmers and herders. Similarly, 20 native cows would cost ₹26,70,000, accompanied by a subsidy of ₹10,68,000 for farmers and cattle herders of all categories.
To avail of subsidies of up to 75 percent on indigenous cows, cattle breeders must apply online through the Desi Gaupalan Protosahan Yojana portal. The application process begins on August 1 and concludes on September 1. Interested individuals can visit the official website of the Directorate of Dairy Development Bihar at dairy.bihar.gov.in to complete their applications.
