“Uttar Pradesh’s Mukhyamantri Svadeshi Gau Samvardhan Yojana, under the Nand Baba Milk Mission, is transforming dairy farming by promoting indigenous cow breeds. Offering up to ₹80,000 in grants, the scheme aims to enhance milk production, create rural jobs, and ensure sustainable livelihoods for small farmers across all districts.”
Uttar Pradesh Drives Dairy Revolution with Svadeshi Gau Samvardhan Yojana
The Mukhyamantri Svadeshi Gau Samvardhan Yojana, launched under the Nand Baba Milk Mission, is a flagship initiative by the Uttar Pradesh government to bolster dairy farming and rural economies. Introduced to enhance milk productivity and per capita milk availability, the scheme incentivizes the adoption of indigenous improved breed cows, such as Gir, Sahiwal, and Tharparkar, known for their resilience and high milk yield. Implemented across all districts, it aims to create sustainable employment opportunities for small and marginal farmers while promoting traditional livestock rearing.
Under the scheme, beneficiaries receive grants covering up to 40% of the total cost per unit, with a maximum of ₹80,000. Each unit comprises two indigenous cows, with an estimated cost of ₹2 lakh, including expenses for purchasing cows, transportation, insurance, fodder-cutting machines, and shed construction. The grant is disbursed directly to beneficiaries’ bank accounts via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) within a month of application, following verification by a joint committee of the Deputy Dairy Development Officer and a nominated Veterinary Officer. To ensure transparency, cows must be identified through ear-tagging with microchips or other recognized systems, and beneficiaries must purchase the cows within two months of receiving the selection letter.
The scheme’s broader objectives include increasing the population of indigenous breeds and improving their genetics, addressing the decline in native cattle populations due to crossbreeding and neglect. By sourcing improved breeds from outside the state, the program ensures genetic diversity and better productivity. This aligns with the state’s goal of strengthening its dairy sector, which contributes significantly to India’s position as the world’s largest milk producer.
Farmers must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being permanent residents of Uttar Pradesh and registering with the relevant authorities. The Nand Baba Milk Mission Society oversees implementation and monitoring, ensuring accountability. If beneficiaries sell or transfer assets within three years, the grant is recoverable by the District Executive Committee, safeguarding the scheme’s integrity.
Recent data highlights the scheme’s impact. Uttar Pradesh, a leading dairy state, produced 31.8 million tonnes of milk in 2023-24, and initiatives like this aim to further increase output. By focusing on indigenous breeds, the state is also promoting sustainable farming practices, as these cows are better adapted to local climates and require less intensive care than exotic breeds. The scheme has already garnered interest among rural youth, with thousands applying for grants to establish small-scale dairy units.
The program complements other state initiatives, such as the Dairy Development Policy 2022, which emphasizes infrastructure development and market linkages for dairy farmers. It also aligns with national efforts like the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, which promotes indigenous cattle conservation. By integrating financial support, modern identification systems, and rigorous monitoring, the Mukhyamantri Svadeshi Gau Samvardhan Yojana is poised to transform Uttar Pradesh’s dairy landscape, fostering economic growth and self-reliance in rural communities.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from government portals, recent news reports, and official announcements related to the Mukhyamantri Svadeshi Gau Samvardhan Yojana. Data and scheme details are sourced from reliable platforms, including myscheme.gov.in and invest.up.gov.in. Readers are advised to verify eligibility and application processes through official channels before participating.