The Madhya Pradesh government is planning to provide cows at subsidised rates to beneficiaries of the Ladli Behna scheme to boost milk production and enhance economic empowerment of women. The initiative aims to increase dairy output and provide a sustainable source of income for women in rural areas.
Details of the Scheme
Under the proposed plan, eligible women under the Ladli Behna Yojana will receive cows at a significantly subsidised cost. The state government will bear a major portion of the expense, making it affordable for beneficiaries. The exact subsidy amount and eligibility criteria are being finalised by the animal husbandry department.
According to state officials, the scheme is expected to cover thousands of women across Madhya Pradesh, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas where dairy farming is a traditional livelihood. The move is part of a broader strategy to enhance milk production in the state, which is one of the top milk-producing states in India.
Impact on Milk Production
Madhya Pradesh currently produces around 15 million tonnes of milk annually. The state government aims to increase this by at least 10% through the new initiative. By providing high-yielding cows to women, the government hopes to add significant volumes to the state's milk pool.
"This scheme will not only boost milk production but also empower women economically," said a senior official from the Madhya Pradesh animal husbandry department. "Beneficiaries will be able to sell milk to cooperatives and private dairies, ensuring a regular income."
Ladli Behna Yojana Context
The Ladli Behna Yojana is a flagship scheme of the Madhya Pradesh government that provides financial assistance of ₹1,000 per month to eligible women. The scheme has over 1.3 crore beneficiaries. The cow distribution plan is an extension of this scheme, aiming to create additional livelihood opportunities.
The government is also planning to provide training on animal husbandry and veterinary support to ensure the success of the initiative. Beneficiaries will be linked with dairy cooperatives for marketing of milk.
Implementation Challenges
Officials acknowledge challenges such as ensuring availability of quality cows, providing adequate fodder and veterinary care, and preventing misuse of subsidies. The government is working on a robust monitoring mechanism to address these issues.
The scheme is expected to be rolled out in the next financial year, with a pilot phase in select districts before statewide expansion.
