By TC News Desk
Agartala, 6th September 2024: Aiming to strengthen animal husbandry in the state, the Animal Resource Development Department has provided project-based assistance to 11 self-employed animal breeders under the National Livestock Mission. This announcement was made by the Minister of Animal Resources Development department Sudhangshu Das, in response to a written query by MLA Nayan Sarkar in the Legislative Assembly on Friday.
“Till March 31, 2024, we have extended financial assistance amounting to Rs 2 crore 4 lakh 46 thousand 8 as a subsidy to 11 self-employed animal breeders,” stated Minister Das. He elaborated that the beneficiaries include six individuals engaged in pig rearing, three in goat rearing, and two in duck and chicken rearing.
Minister Das highlighted the objectives of the National Livestock Mission, saying, “The mission aims to support the establishment of pig farms, goat farms, poultry farms, and units for feed, fodder, and silage production. This initiative is designed to help beneficiaries earn a sustainable income through animal husbandry.” He further added, “Beneficiaries receive 50 percent of the total capital cost of the project as a subsidy.”
The Minister also revealed that a total of 216 self-employed individuals have already applied for financial assistance under this scheme.
In response to another query by MLA Nayan Sarkar, Minister Das provided insights into the department’s efforts over the past two financial years. “During 2021-22 and 2022-23, we assisted 11,691 poultry farmers, 37,445 chicken farmers, and 13,855 pig farmers. Additionally, cows were distributed to 390 beneficiaries over the last three financial years,” he said.
Addressing a separate question posed by MLAs Sudip Roy Barman and Nayan Sarkar, Minister Das assured that the government is taking proactive steps to meet the state’s demand for eggs and milk. “We are committed to enhancing the production of eggs and milk to ensure self-sufficiency in the state,” he affirmed.