The Uttar Pradesh government is preparing a comprehensive action plan to boost farmers' income by integrating agriculture with animal husbandry and expanding the production, use, and marketing of cow dung-based products across the state.
High-Level Meeting Directives
At a high-level meeting held on Monday, Animal Husbandry Minister Dharampal Singh directed officials from the animal husbandry and agriculture departments to transform cow shelters into production centers for compost, biogas, Jeevamrit, and Ghanamrit. The goal is to make these shelters self-reliant while contributing to the rural economy.
Focus on Soil Fertility and Farm Incomes
Singh emphasized that the Yogi Adityanath government is prioritizing both higher farm incomes and the restoration of soil fertility. He stated that the scientific use of cow dung resources available in the state could enable large-scale production of organic manure, thereby reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers. This approach aligns with sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation.
Successful Models to be Replicated
The minister referred to successful biogas and organic manure models implemented in districts such as Jhansi, Chandauli, Farrukhabad, Kanpur, and Barabanki. Officials were asked to study these initiatives and expand them statewide, ensuring that best practices are adopted uniformly.
Biogas and Agricultural Waste Utilization
The meeting also reviewed plans for compressed biogas plants, gobar gas units, and better utilization of agricultural waste. Officials highlighted that biogas projects would improve energy availability in rural areas, while the slurry generated from these plants could serve as a nutrient-rich input for fields, offering additional benefits to farmers. This integrated approach aims to create a circular economy benefiting both energy and agriculture sectors.
Standardization and Quality Assurance
The government is focusing on standardizing cow dung-based manure to ensure quality. Proposed norms include standards for packaging, moisture content, and overall quality so that farmers receive reliable products. This standardization is expected to build trust and encourage wider adoption among farmers.
Role of Cooperative Societies
Officials discussed increasing manure availability through cooperative societies and encouraging its use alongside urea. The minister said that wider adoption of cow dung-based products would support environmental conservation, strengthen the rural economy, and ensure sustainable growth in farmers' income. By integrating these efforts, the government aims to create a robust ecosystem that benefits both agriculture and animal husbandry sectors.
