The year 2024 has been historically significant for cow conservation and promotion in Madhya Pradesh. The state government declared this year (from Chaitra to Falgun as per the Indian calendar) as the "Year of Cow Conservation and Promotion." Several new schemes have been implemented this year, providing new opportunities for income for the farmers and livestock keepers.
A budget of ₹590 crore has been allocated for the development of livestock for the year 2024-25. Additionally, ₹150 crore has been earmarked in the budget for the Chief Minister’s Cooperative Milk Producers Incentive Scheme. The construction of a high-tech cow shelter with a capacity of 10,000 cows is underway at Barkeheri-Dob in Bhopal, with the foundation stone laid by Chief Minister Dr. Yadav.
More than 2,500 cow shelters are operational in the state, housing over 4 lakh cows. These shelters are part of the Govardhan Yojana, which focuses on the protection and promotion of cow breeds. Efforts to remove encroachments from grazing lands are also ongoing.
Madhya Pradesh is one of the leading states in milk production in India. Dairy farmers in the state are not only producing large quantities of milk but are also earning a good profit from the sale of milk and dairy products. The state contributes 9% of India’s total milk production, and the government’s goal is to increase this to 20% of the national total.
The "Sanchi" brand of Madhya Pradesh Milk Federation is offering high-quality milk and other dairy products at reasonable prices in the market, providing good income to member farmers.
Technological Advancements and Achievements in Animal Husbandry:
According to the Minister of Animal Husbandry and Dairy, Shri Lakhan Patel, Madhya Pradesh ranks third in the country in milk production. The state produces 591 lakh kilograms of milk daily, and the per capita availability of milk is 644 grams per day, which is significantly higher than the national average of 459 grams per day.
Relief and Facilities for Livestock Keepers:
To improve the nutrition of cows, the government has decided to double the amount allocated per cow from ₹20 to ₹40. Additionally, hydraulic cattle lifting vehicles have been arranged for injured cows on roads. The country’s first 100-ton capacity CNG plant has been set up in Gwalior. Over 5 lakh animals have received doorstep veterinary services through mobile veterinary units, ensuring faster and more effective healthcare for livestock keepers.
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