Transforming Livestock Development in Northeast India

On January 23, 2025, a significant event took place in Shillong, marking a pivotal moment for the livestock sector in Northeast India. Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, also known as Lalan Singh, inaugurated the “Conclave on Dialogue for Holistic Development of Livestock Sectors in the North-East Region.” This conclave brought together key stakeholders, including state ministers, industry representatives, and researchers, to discuss and promote the development of livestock in the region. The event aimed to address the unique challenges faced by the Northeast and to foster collaboration among various sectors.

Key Initiatives Launched at the Conclave

During the conclave, several important projects were launched to enhance the livestock sector. Among these were 15 Entrepreneurship Development Projects (EDPs) under the National Livestock Mission (NLM), with a total investment of โ‚น10.93 crore. The establishment of four Fodder Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) was also announced, facilitated by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB). Additionally, a Regional Semen Production Laboratory and Goat Semen Bank will be set up in Khanapara, backed by an investment of โ‚น337.29 lakh.

Shri Singh emphasized the NDDB’s commitment to conducting a Baseline Village Survey. This survey will help form multipurpose dairy cooperative societies in Arunachal Pradesh, particularly in the Namsai, Lohit, and Lower Dibang Valley districts. The conclave also saw the inauguration of the Intensive Cattle Development Project in Khliehtyrshi, Meghalaya, with an investment of โ‚น31.86 lakhs, and the Multiplier Pig Farm in Kyrdemkulai, Ri Bhoi District, costing โ‚น10.23 crore. Furthermore, a “Poultry Song” in the Khasi language was launched to promote poultry farming in the region.

Investment and Infrastructure Development

The conclave highlighted the need for substantial investment in the livestock sector to address existing challenges. Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh announced that under the National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD) and Infrastructure Support, 29 projects have been approved, amounting to a total investment of โ‚น240 crore. These projects will cover approximately 53 districts out of the total 131 in the Northeast Region.

The Minister outlined plans to invest โ‚น250 crore to expand dairy infrastructure, aiming to increase milk procurement capacity from 1.5 lakh liters per day to 3.5 lakh liters per day. This initiative also seeks to onboard 70,000 new farmers into the cooperative network. The private sector’s involvement is crucial, and various companies have expressed interest in investing in the region. For instance, the IB Group plans to invest around โ‚น200 crore in the poultry and feed sector, while the Karnataka Poultry Federation aims to invest โ‚น250 crore to promote sustainable growth in the poultry industry.

Addressing Challenges and Future Prospects

The livestock sector in Northeast India faces unique geographical and climatic challenges. Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh pointed out the low per capita average of milk and eggs compared to the national average. He urged state governments to create a single-window system to facilitate private sector investment and strengthen the livestock sector. The Minister reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modiโ€™s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to achieve self-sufficiency in livestock production.

The conclave featured technical sessions focused on piggery, dairy, poultry, and fodder production. Stakeholders discussed strategies to address supply gaps, foster innovation, and enhance the regional value chain. The event successfully fostered collaboration among policymakers, scientists, and industry leaders, setting the stage for transformative growth in the livestock sector of Northeast India. As the region moves forward, the commitment to enhancing livestock development will play a crucial role in ensuring economic prosperity and food security for its people.

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