UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 20 March 2025

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Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission- Key Highlights

Why in News:

The Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM), approved with an outlay of ₹3,400 crore (2021-26), aims to enhance milk production, genetic improvement, and indigenous bovine breeding through AI, IVF, and financial incentives for farmers.

Introduction

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) under the Central Sector component of the Development Programmes scheme.
The revised scheme aims to enhance milk production, productivity, and genetic improvement of indigenous bovine breeds while ensuring sustainable growth in the livestock sector.

Financial Allocation and Revised Outlay

The total outlay for the revised RGM during the 15th Finance Commission cycle (2021-22 to 2025-26) has been increased to ₹3,400 crore, with an additional allocation of ₹1,000 crore.

Key New Initiatives under Revised RGM

Heifer Rearing Centres:

A one-time assistance of 35% of the capital cost will be provided to Implementing Agencies for establishing 30 housing facilities for 15,000 heifers.
This initiative will help in systematic rearing of high-yielding heifers for enhanced productivity.

Interest Subvention for Farmers:

To encourage farmers to purchase High Genetic Merit (HGM) IVF heifers, a 3% interest subvention will be provided on loans taken from milk unions, financial institutions, or banks.
This will promote the systematic induction of high-yielding breeds, boosting overall dairy production.

Continuing Components of Rashtriya Gokul Mission

The revised RGM retains all ongoing activities, including:
Strengthening of Semen Stations and the Artificial Insemination (AI) network.
Bull Production Programme and Accelerated Breed Improvement Programme using sex-sorted semen.
Skill Development and Farmer Awareness Programs.
Support for Innovative Technologies, including Centre of Excellence for Bovine Breeding.
Strengthening of Central Cattle Breeding Farms (CCBFs).

Impact on Dairy Production and Farmers

Increase in Milk Production and Availability
- Milk production has grown by 55% over the past decade.
- Per capita milk availability has increased from 307 grams per day in 2013-14 to 471 grams per day in 2023-24.
- Productivity has improved by 26.34% over the last ten years.
Nationwide Artificial Insemination Programme (NAIP)
- Free Artificial Insemination (AI) at farmers’ doorsteps in 605 districts where AI coverage was below 50%.
- Over 8.39 crore animals have been covered, benefiting 21 crore farmers.
- Technological Advancements in Bovine Breeding
- Establishment of 22 In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) labs across India under State Livestock Boards (SLBs) and Universities.
- Over 2,541 High Genetic Merit (HGM) calves have been born through IVF technology.
- Development of Gau Chip and Mahish Chip, genomic chips for indigenous bovines, by NDDB and ICAR-NBAGR.
- Gau Sort—India’s indigenous sex-sorted semen production technology—developed by NDDB.

Enhancing Farmers’ Livelihoods

5 crore farmers engaged in dairy farming will benefit from improved productivity and higher incomes.
The scientific conservation of indigenous bovine breeds will contribute to Atmanirbhar Bharat in the livestock sector.
The promotion of IVF technology will ensure the sustainable enhancement of high-yielding cattle population.

Conclusion

The Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission is a transformational step in India’s dairy and livestock sector.

By integrating technological advancements, genetic improvement, and financial incentives, the scheme will enhance milk production, improve farmers’ incomes, and strengthen India’s position as the world’s largest dairy producer.