India Hosts National Sheep Symposium to Boost Livestock Sector
The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), under India’s Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, successfully held a significant sheep symposium on December 22, 2025. The event took place at the ICAR-Central Sheep Wool Research Institute (ICAR-CSWRI) in Avikanagar, Rajasthan, and attracted experts, officials, and stakeholders from across the country.
The symposium was attended by prominent figures, including Shri. Naresh Pal Gangwar, Secretary of DAHD, and Dr. Praveen Malik, the Animal Husbandry Commissioner. Key representatives, such as Dr. Muthukumarsamy B., Joint Secretary of DAHD, also participated, alongside various officials from the Government and ICAR-CSWRI.
Wide Participation from Across the Nation
Delegates from numerous State Animal Husbandry Departments, ICAR institutes, industry groups, start-ups, NGOs, experts, and sheep farmers came together for this vital gathering. The event aimed to address important issues within the sheep, mutton, and wool sectors and inspire collaborative efforts to enhance these industries.
Focus on Sheep Breed Improvement
During the symposium, Dr. Arun Kumar Tomar, Director of ICAR-CSWRI, welcomed attendees and provided insights into the current state of the sheep and wool sectors. Dr. Muthukumarasamy B. highlighted the Department’s commitment to sheep breed improvement programs, particularly under the National Livestock Mission (NLM). He announced that a capital subsidy of up to 50%, with a maximum of ₹50 lakh, is available for projects focused on livestock production.
Furthermore, the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) offers a 3% interest subvention for initiatives such as waste-to-wealth projects and primary wool processing units, emphasizing the Department’s dedication to fostering innovation and capacity building in the sector.
Empowering Rural Livelihoods
Mr. Gangwar pointed out the vital role of sheep and goats in rural livelihoods, referring to them as the “ATM of the poor.” He urged for enhanced research-driven interventions to ensure farmers directly benefit from advancements in the sector. He underscored the necessity of creating integrated value chains in sheep production, akin to those successfully established in dairy.
Key Issues Discussed
During the symposium, participants engaged in technical sessions covering various topics, including sheep genetic resources and entrepreneurship in sheep husbandry. Discussions focused on improving disease control measures, enhancing productivity levels for meat and wool, and adapting to the changing market demands.
In a notable addition to the event, a new newsletter titled “CSWRI at a Glance” was also launched, aimed at disseminating key information about the institute’s initiatives. Through collaborative dialogue and strategic planning, the symposium marked a significant step toward a more resilient and productive sheep sector in India, addressing both challenges and opportunities for future growth.
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