Livestocks in India: A Historical and Contemporary Overviews

Livestock in India: A Historical and Contemporary Overview

Introduction

     India is one of the largest producers of livestock in the world, contributing significantly to rural livelihoods, food security, and national income. Livestock plays a crucial role in the agrarian economy of India, with over 20.5 million people depending on it for their livelihood, especially small and marginal farmers and landless laborers.

Historical Background of Livestock in India

     Livestock has been an integral part of Indian civilization since the Indus Valley Civilization (c. 3300–1300 BCE). Archeological evidence from sites like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa reveals that cattle, sheep, goats, and buffalo were domesticated for milk, meat, hides, and agriculture. The Rig Veda, one of the oldest Indian scriptures (c. 1500 BCE), mentions cows as symbols of wealth and prosperity, referring to them as “Aghnya” (not to be killed).

     During the Maurya Empire (321–185 BCE), state-supported cattle breeding and protection were encouraged. Emperor Ashoka’s edicts mention animal welfare. Over centuries, native breeds such as Gir, Sahiwal, and Ongole evolved through selective breeding for milk production, drought resistance, and adaptation to climate.

     In the colonial period, particularly under British rule, livestock was mainly used for ploughing and transport. However, there was limited scientific improvement. After independence in 1947, India emphasized milk and livestock productivity through cooperative movements like Operation Flood (1970s), which transformed India from a milk-deficient country into the world's largest milk producer. 

Current Status of Livestock in India

As per the 20th Livestock Census (2019):

Total Livestock Population: 535.78 million (4.6% increase from 2012)

Cattle: 192.49 million

Buffalo: 109.85 million

Goats: 148.88 million

Sheep: 74.26 million

Poultry: 851.81 million


India ranks:

1st in milk production

2nd in the number of buffaloes and goats

3rd in egg production

     Livestock contributes nearly 4.11% to India’s GDP and about 25.6% to agricultural GDP.

     Livestock farming is not just a source of income but also provides nutritional security, employment to women, and organic manure. Traditional and indigenous breeds are still maintained in several regions due to their disease resistance and adaptability.

Government Schemes to Promote Livestock in India

     To modernize and support the livestock sector, the Indian government has introduced several key schemes and policies:

1. Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM)

     Launched in 2014 under the National Programme for Bovine Breeding and Dairy Development.

     Aims to conserve and develop indigenous breeds through Gokul Grams (cattle care centers), semen banks, and in vitro fertilization.

2. National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP)

     Launched in 2019 to eradicate Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Brucellosis in livestock by 2030.

     Fully funded by the government with ₹13,343 crores allocated.

3. Livestock Health & Disease Control (LHDC)

     Provides vaccination, disease diagnosis, and veterinary services to improve animal health.

4. Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme (DEDS)

     Provides subsidies and loans to dairy farmers, especially small-scale entrepreneurs, for setting up milk units.

5. Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF)

     Announced in 2020 with ₹15,000 crore funding.

     Promotes private investment in dairy processing, cold chain logistics, and value-added products.

6. National Livestock Mission (NLM)

     Focuses on breed improvement, feed and fodder development, and rural backyard poultry to empower women and small farmers.

7. e-Gopala App

     A digital platform for farmers to get information on breed improvement, AI services, vaccination alerts, and veterinary first aid.

Conclusion

     The livestock sector is not just a component of agriculture in India—it is a lifeline for millions. From ancient times to modern digital platforms, livestock has been a symbol of sustainability, food security, and economic resilience. With continued support through government schemes and increasing awareness of scientific practices, India is poised to lead in sustainable livestock development globally.





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