Haryana Minister Unveils Ambitious Plan to Quadruple Livestock Farmer Income by 2047
In a significant announcement at the 41st State-Level Livestock Exhibition in Kurukshetra, Haryana's Minister for Animal Husbandry, Fisheries, Agriculture, and Farmers' Welfare, Shyam Singh Rana, declared that quadrupling the income of livestock farmers by 2047 is a central pillar of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for a developed India, or Viksit Bharat. The event, held at the KDB Mela Ground, served as a platform to reinforce the government's commitment to enhancing agricultural and animal husbandry sectors through targeted initiatives.
Government Schemes and Global Recognition Highlighted
Minister Rana emphasized that both the central and state governments are consistently implementing farmer-centric schemes designed to boost income, increase productivity, and ensure transparency in agriculture and animal husbandry. He proudly noted that Haryana's Murrah buffalo and Sahiwal cattle breeds have earned international acclaim, contributing to the state's robust dairy sector. Currently, Haryana produces an impressive 1,128 grams of milk per person per day, showcasing the strength and efficiency of its dairy industry.
Exhibition Inauguration and Farmer Engagement
The minister formally inaugurated the exhibition by offering jaggery to a cow of the 'Mharaa Haryana' breed, symbolizing traditional practices. He later toured the exhibition grounds, engaging directly with livestock farmers, inspecting prize-winning animals, and observing a catwalk featuring high-quality breeds. To encourage participation, farmers were awarded prizes through a draw, including motorcycles and household appliances, with total cash prizes worth up to Rs 50 lakh earmarked for the event.
Policy Refinements and Technological Adoption
In discussions with Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, Dairy, and Panchayati Raj, Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Haryana proposed refining livestock insurance policies. The suggestions include linking insurance coverage for buffaloes to the condition of their teats and for horses to leg health, as these factors directly impact productivity and quality. Minister Rana also stressed the urgent need for farmers to adopt modern technologies in animal husbandry, especially given limited landholdings and growing family populations.
Historical Significance and Future Goals
Reflecting on Kurukshetra's rich history, Rana connected its legacy—from Brahma's association with agriculture to Lord Krishna's teachings in the Gita—to contemporary efforts aimed at human upliftment through farmer-focused initiatives. He highlighted that 200 buses were arranged to facilitate farmer participation in the exhibition, and stalls were set up by various companies showcasing feed, medicines, and modern technologies.
Political Support and Broader Implications
Nilokheri MLA Bhagwan Das Kabirpanthi praised Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and Minister Rana for organizing the grand exhibition, asserting that farmers and livestock rearers will play a decisive role in achieving the 2047 developed India goal. The event featured animals from 53 breeds, with top performers set to receive prizes. Additional Chief Secretary Vijay Singh Dahiya urged farmers to leverage modern technologies, vaccination drives, and government schemes, including special provisions for women and Scheduled Castes, along with loans and subsidies.
In response to media queries, Minister Rana commented on international relations, noting that India and the United States share democratic values and a friendly bond. He reiterated India's firm stance against terrorism, calling for global action against countries that nurture such threats. The event was attended by notable figures including Chairman Dharamvir Mirzapur, Director General of Animal Husbandry Dr. Prem Singh, BJP district president Tajinder Singh Goldy, and several senior officers and veterinarians, underscoring the collaborative effort to advance Haryana's agricultural and livestock sectors.
