New Government Initiative to Boost Fodder Security and Livestock Welfare

The Department of Rural Development (DoRD) and the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) have launched a collaborative initiative aimed at enhancing fodder security and livestock infrastructure across States and Union Territories in India. This program, aligned with the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025, seeks to provide lasting support for rural households, particularly small farmers and landless families reliant on livestock and dairy.

Comprehensive Approach to Livestock Support

The VB–G RAM G Act, effective from July 1, 2026, guarantees 125 days of wage employment for rural households. This initiative focuses on developing essential assets in four key areas, including infrastructure that supports livelihoods and mitigates the impact of extreme weather conditions. The joint advisory aims to utilize this framework to foster fodder production, enhance community pastures, and improve livestock-related infrastructure.

Identified Works to Enhance Infrastructure

The advisory has pinpointed 22 specific interventions out of 375 permissible works outlined in the VB–G RAM G framework. These include:

• Fodder cultivation initiatives for individual households and communities.
• Development of communal fodder resources, pastures, and grazing lands.
• Establishment of fodder storage facilities, banks, and silage units.
• Support for the construction and maintenance of livestock shelters.
• Development of community milk collection and veterinary health centres.
• Constructing animal troughs and Azolla tanks for specific beneficiaries.

These measures aim to bolster fodder availability and create sustainable livestock-based livelihoods, ensuring that all projects align with the Act’s guidelines.

Local Planning Through Viksit Gram Panchayat

The advisory emphasizes a decentralized, bottom-up planning process, promoting integration of fodder and livestock initiatives into Viksit Gram Panchayat Plans (VGPPs). States and Union Territories are motivated to increase funding for these projects to at least 5% of their total expenditure. A need-based approach encourages Gram Panchayats to focus resources in areas where livestock is vital for the economy.

Coordinated Action for Effective Implementation

States and Union Territories are tasked with crafting comprehensive State Action Plans to enhance fodder security and livestock infrastructure. Coordinated efforts among the Departments of Rural Development, Animal Husbandry, and Agriculture will improve planning efficiency and resource allocation.

Compliance with Regulations

The advisory stresses that all livestock-related projects must comply with the provisions of the VB–G RAM G Act, including mandatory social audits and transparency in beneficiary selection. The goal is to disseminate this information widely among relevant departments and local authorities to ensure effective execution.

Supporting Rural Livelihoods for a Sustainable Future

This joint initiative represents a significant stride toward harmonizing rural employment and livestock development. By linking permissible works under the VB–G RAM G Act with local needs, the government aims to improve fodder availability and strengthen livelihood opportunities for rural families. With a focus on sustainable, climate-resilient practices, the program aspires to contribute to the broader vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.