Centre Pushes Digital Transformation and Investment-Led Reforms in Livestock Sector at National Workshop

In a major step toward accelerating reforms and modernisation in India's livestock sector, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), Government of India, convened a high-level national review meeting and workshop at Krishi Bhawan today. The session focused on key issues related to the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI), alongside critical interventions in Artificial Insemination (AI), vaccination protocols, and the National Digital Livestock Mission (NDLM) through the Bharat Pashudhan Portal.

Chaired by Shri Naresh Pal Gangwar, Secretary, DAHD, the meeting brought together senior officials and policymakers from Animal Husbandry Departments across all States and Union Territories, reflecting a coordinated national push to strengthen livestock productivity, disease control, and digital governance.

Driving Investment-Led Growth Through SASCI

At the core of the discussions was the SASCI framework, a flagship initiative designed to incentivize states to undertake capital investments in livestock sector reforms. Addressing the gathering, Shri Gangwar emphasized that SASCI represents a paradigm shift toward performance-linked funding, encouraging states to adopt structured, outcome-driven approaches.

He outlined that states must align their proposals with comprehensive livestock development plans, meet predefined reform milestones, and ensure strict adherence to implementation timelines to qualify for incentives. "Timely submission of claims, convergence with state finance departments, and ensuring dedicated utilisation of funds exclusively for livestock activities from the beginning of the financial year are critical," he noted.

The Secretary also highlighted that the initiative is expected to unlock significant capital investment, improve infrastructure such as veterinary services and breeding centres, and enhance farmer incomes through productivity gains.

Standardisation and Expansion of AI and Vaccination Services

A key highlight of the workshop was the emphasis on standardising service delivery through robust Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) for Artificial Insemination and vaccination. These interventions are central to improving breed quality, reducing disease burden, and enhancing overall livestock productivity.

Shri Gangwar noted that most States and UTs have begun adopting uniform protocols as per DAHD guidelines, marking progress toward a harmonised national framework. He urged officials to accelerate the rollout of AI services, including expansion beyond bovine species, with a special focus on genetic improvement through advanced technologies such as In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) in sheep.

In parallel, vaccination strategies were reviewed in detail, with particular focus on strengthening disease surveillance systems, achieving higher immunisation coverage, and maintaining disease-free zones for conditions such as Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD). The need for real-time tracking of vaccination drives and improved cold-chain logistics was also underscored.

Bharat Pashudhan Portal: Backbone of Digital Livestock Ecosystem

The workshop placed significant emphasis on the Bharat Pashudhan Portal under NDLM, envisioned as a unified digital platform for livestock data management across the country. Officials discussed the importance of seamless data integration, enabling real-time uploading of Artificial Insemination and vaccination records, and improving transparency in service delivery.

The platform is expected to serve as a national repository of livestock data, supporting evidence-based policymaking, disease monitoring, and farmer-centric service delivery. States were encouraged to ensure rapid onboarding, strengthen data pipelines, and integrate field-level operations with digital systems.

Strengthening Grassroots Delivery and Workforce

Under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM), the Centre urged States and UTs to deploy MAITRI (Multipurpose AI Technicians in Rural India) workers in every Gram Panchayat, significantly expanding last-mile service delivery. This move is expected to improve accessibility to breeding services and create rural employment opportunities.

The DAHD also reiterated its commitment to scaling AI coverage, improving breed quality, and promoting indigenous livestock development, aligning with broader national goals of doubling farmers' income and enhancing rural livelihoods.

Review of Key Schemes and Disease Preparedness

The meeting also undertook a comprehensive review of progress under multiple flagship schemes:

• National Livestock Mission – Entrepreneurship Development Programme (NLM-EDP): States were directed to submit timely inputs for the release of the second instalment.

• Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP): Emphasis was laid on expediting Action Plans under the National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP), Mobile Veterinary Units (MVUs), and Assistance to States for Control of Animal Diseases (ASCAD).

• Livestock Insurance: Strategies to expand coverage and reduce farmer risk were discussed.

• Fodder Development: Enhanced coordination with Rural Development Departments was advised to address fodder shortages.

• Disease Preparedness: Focus areas included influenza readiness, strengthening district diagnostic laboratories, and sustaining FMD-free zones.

These initiatives collectively aim to build a resilient livestock ecosystem capable of withstanding disease outbreaks, climate challenges, and market fluctuations.

Collaborative Federal Approach and Way Forward

The workshop concluded with an interactive session, where DAHD officials addressed queries from State and UT representatives, reinforcing a collaborative Centre–State approach. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to timely implementation, improved coordination, and leveraging digital tools to enhance efficiency.

The meeting witnessed the presence of senior officials including Shri Rama Shankar Sinha, Additional Secretary (Livestock Health); Dr. Naveena B. Maheswarappa, Animal Husbandry Commissioner; Dr. Muthukumarasamy B., Joint Secretary (NLM); and Shri Jagat Hazarika, Statistical Advisor, along with top-level representatives from across the country.

With India's livestock sector contributing nearly 30% to agricultural Gross Value Added and supporting millions of rural households, the outcomes of this workshop signal a renewed push toward innovation, investment, and integrated policy execution—positioning the sector as a key driver of inclusive rural growth.