Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) for Livestock Sector

1. The Union Cabinet has approved the Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) to strengthen the livestock sector.
2. An additional outlay of ₹1,000 crore has been sanctioned for the 15th Finance Commission cycle (2021–22 to 2025–26).

Objectives of Revised RGM

1. Enhance bovine productivity and milk production through sustainable and advanced technologies.
2. Promote genetic improvement using high genetic merit bulls for superior breeding outcomes.
3. Expand the Artificial Insemination (AI) network for better breeding services across rural areas.
4. Ensure doorstep AI services to farmers through a robust technician network.
5. Promote indigenous cattle and buffalo breeds using a scientific and holistic approach.

 

About the Mission Launched in 2014, under the National Programme for Bovine Breeding and Dairy Development. Implemented by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. It is a Central Sector Scheme funded with 100% central assistance, with limited exceptions. The total outlay is now revised to ₹3,400 crore, up from ₹2,400 crore for 2021–26.

 

New Components in Revised RGM

1. Heifer Rearing Centres: One-time 35% capital subsidy for 30 centers to house 15,000 heifers in total.
2. Support for IVF Heifers: 3% interest subvention on loans to farmers for purchasing high-genetic-merit IVF heifers.

 

Existing Core Components

1. Ensure availability of high genetic merit germplasm through Bull Production Programmes using Progeny Testing and Pedigree Selection.
2. Implement In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) technology for breed improvement.
3. Expand AI services by creating a network of Multi-Purpose AI Technicians in Rural India (MAITRIs).
4. Roll out the National Digital Livestock Mission for real-time data on animal health and disease outbreaks.

Indigenous Breed Promotion

1. Support and conserve elite indigenous breeds via Gaushalas, Gosadans, and Pinjarapoles.
2. Establish Gokul Grams for conservation and development of indigenous breeds.
3. Set up National Kamdhenu Breeding Centres in Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh to serve as genetic repositories.

Farmer Engagement and Recognition

1. Launch a Nationwide AI Programme to provide free AI services at the farmer’s doorstep.
2. Introduce awards like Gopal Ratna and Kamdhenu to incentivize indigenous cattle rearing.
3. Organize skill development initiatives for AI professionals and rural technicians.

Technology and Market Access

1. Promote Advanced Reproductive Technologies to ensure disease-free female bovines.
2. Operate e-Pashu Haat – Nakul Prajnan Bazaar, an e-market platform to connect breeders and farmers for quality bovine germplasm.

Impact of the Rashtriya Gokul Mission

1. Milk production increased by 63.55% over the last decade.
2. Per capita milk availability rose from 307 grams/day in 2013–14 to 471 grams/day in 2023–24.
3. Bovine productivity improved by 26.34% in the same period.

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