Government Schemes and Initiatives related to Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science:

There are several government schemes and initiatives in India that have been launched to promote animal husbandry and veterinary science. These initiatives aim to improve animal health, increase productivity, and enhance the livelihoods of livestock farmers. Here are some important schemes and initiatives in this domain:

National Livestock Mission (NLM)
- The National Livestock Mission was launched by the Government of India in 2014.
- It aims to ensure quantitative and qualitative improvement in livestock production systems, support infrastructure and services, and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities to livestock farmers.
- The mission focuses on breed improvement, feed and fodder development, disease control, and strengthening of veterinary services.

Rashtriya Gokul Mission
- Launched in 2014, the Rashtriya Gokul Mission aims to conserve and develop indigenous breeds of cattle.
- It focuses on the development and propagation of 40 indigenous breeds through selective breeding and genetic upgradation.
- The mission also aims to establish breeding centers, bull mother farms, and semen stations to conserve and propagate indigenous breeds.

National Animal Disease Control Program (NADCP)
- The National Animal Disease Control Program was launched in 2019 with the aim to control and eradicate Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Brucellosis in livestock.
- It includes a mass vaccination campaign, disease surveillance, and farmer awareness programs.
- The program aims to vaccinate 100% of the estimated 53 crore livestock against FMD and Brucellosis.

Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI)
- The Animal Welfare Board of India was established under the Ministry of Environment and Forests in 1962.
- It works towards the promotion of animal welfare and prevention of cruelty towards animals.
- The board provides guidelines and regulations for the welfare of animals in various sectors, including animal husbandry and veterinary science.

Central Herd Registration Scheme (CHRS)
- The Central Herd Registration Scheme was launched to maintain a comprehensive database of bovine breeding activities in the country.
- It aims to improve the genetic potential of indigenous cattle breeds through registration and certification of elite animals.
- The scheme helps in the identification of superior animals for breeding purposes and facilitates the exchange of germplasm.

These schemes and initiatives play a crucial role in promoting animal health, improving livestock productivity, and enhancing the livelihoods of farmers engaged in animal husbandry. They contribute to the overall development of the sector and help in ensuring food security and economic growth.