Nandini scheme to boost indigenous cattle breed, milk output

Prayargaj: State govt has launched the ‘Nandini Krishak Samriddhi Yojana’ (Nandini Farmer Prosperity Scheme) in Sangam city with the dual objective of enhancing milk production and doubling farmers’ incomes. In the first phase, Prayagraj is among select districts across 10 administrative divisions where the scheme will be implemented at district headquarters. A total of 35 dairy units — each with 25 high-yielding indigenous cows — are proposed. Under the scheme, each beneficiary is required to set up a dairy unit with an estimated cost of Rs 62 lakh. The financial structure involves the beneficiary contributing 15% of the cost from their own resources, receiving a loan for 35%, and receiving govt subsidy covering the remaining 50%. This scheme is exclusively dedicated to indigenous cattle breeds, including Sahiwal, Gir, Tharparkar and Gangatiri. Each beneficiary is permitted to maintain a herd of 25 animals. The implementation of this initiative has already commenced in Prayagraj. Chief veterinary officer (Prayagraj) SN Yadav said: “Five beneficiaries have been selected under the scheme (part of the broader Nand Baba Milk Mission), a move that has significantly accelerated the growth of the indigenous cattle population in the region. Additionally, 12 beneficiaries have been selected under the ‘Mini Nandini Krishak Samriddhi Yojana.’ Through these two schemes combined, 51 healthy indigenous cattle are currently being reared and conserved within the district. “