Why in the News?

The Centre has decided to deploy National Level Monitors (NLM) to oversee the implementation of its livestock schemes including the National Livestock Mission and Rashtriya Gokul Mission.

About Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM):

• The Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) has been implemented for the development and conservation of indigenous bovine breeds since December 2014.
• The scheme is important in enhancing milk production and productivity of bovines to meet the growing demand for milk and making dairying more remunerative to the rural farmers of the country.
• The scheme is also continued under the umbrella scheme Rashtriya Pashudhan Vikas Yojna from 2021 to 2026 with a budget outlay of Rs.2400 crore.
• The RGM will result in enhanced productivity and benefit of the programme, percolating to all cattle and buffaloes of India, especially with small and marginal farmers.
• This programme will also benefit women in particular since over 70% of the work involved in livestock farming is undertaken by women.

Objectives:

• To enhance the productivity of bovines and increase milk production in a sustainable manner using advanced technologies.
• To propagate the use of high genetic merit bulls for breeding purposes.
• To enhance Artificial insemination coverage through strengthening the breeding network and delivery of Artificial insemination services at farmer’s doorstep.
• To promote indigenous cattle & buffalo rearing and conservation in a scientific and holistic manner.