President Droupadi Murmu virtually inaugurated transformative dairy and livestock initiatives in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district on January 13, 2025. Spearheaded by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), these programs aim to enhance rural livelihoods and bolster India’s dairy sector.
Key projects include the Cattle Induction Program, distributing 3,000 high-genetic-merit cattle under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, supported by a Rs 37.45 crore productivity enhancement initiative by the National Dairy Development Board.
The Market Support Program seeks to double milk procurement in Odisha from 5 to 10 lakh liters daily, enhancing processing and marketing for better farmer returns.
The Gift Milk Program, providing fortified milk to 1,200 schoolchildren, tackles malnutrition and improves health outcomes. Commending these efforts, the President highlighted India’s leadership in milk production and urged adoption of advanced technologies like Artificial Insemination for improved livestock productivity.
Union ministers and Odisha’s leadership emphasized the pivotal role of dairy cooperatives in fostering sustainable rural growth.
