Rashtriya Gokul Mission: Preserving Indigenous Cattle Breeds and Boosting Productivity
The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, & Dairy recently highlighted the significance of the Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) in conserving indigenous bovine breeds and enhancing milk production during a discussion in the Lok Sabha.
What is the Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM)?
Overview
Launched in 2014, the Rashtriya Gokul Mission focuses on the development and conservation of indigenous bovine breeds. The program continues as part of the Rashtriya Pashudhan Vikas Yojna for 2021-2026, with a budget allocation of ₹2,400 crore.
Why It’s Needed
The decline of indigenous bovine breeds like Punganur from Andhra Pradesh poses a risk to valuable genetic resources. These breeds are known for their climate resilience, adaptability to local conditions, and high-quality milk production, underscoring the urgency of preservation efforts.
Objectives
The mission aims to enhance bovine productivity, promote high-quality breeding, and expand artificial insemination (AI) services.
Key Components of RGM
- High Genetic Merit: The program focuses on improving genetic merit through bull production via progeny testing, pedigree selection, genomic selection, and germplasm import. It supports semen stations, in vitro fertilization (IVF) technology for assured pregnancies, and breed multiplication farms to accelerate livestock improvement.
- Artificial Insemination Network: RGM promotes Multi-Purpose Artificial Insemination Technicians in Rural India (MAITRIs) to expand AI services nationwide.
- Digital Livestock Management: The National Digital Livestock Mission improves data management and service delivery for livestock owners.
- Conservation of Indigenous Breeds: Gaushalas receive support for the care and preservation of native cattle.
- Skill Development and Awareness: The program includes farmer capacity-building, awareness campaigns, and research on bovine breeding.
Funding Pattern
RGM’s initiatives are largely funded through 100% grants-in-aid, while specific components, such as IVF pregnancies, sex-sorted semen, and breed multiplication farms, involve partial subsidies.
Key Initiatives Under RGM
- Gokul Grams: Dedicated centers for the promotion and conservation of indigenous cattle breeds.
- Awards for Farmers: The Gopal Ratna Award and Kamdhenu Award recognize farmers excelling in indigenous cattle management.
- National Kamdhenu Breeding Centre: A scientific hub for conserving and developing native breeds, serving as a national repository of germplasm.
- E-Pashu Haat—Nakul Prajnan Bazaar: An e-market portal connecting breeders with farmers.
- National Bovine Genomic Center: A genomic enhancement facility for selecting high-merit bulls using advanced gene-based technology.
What is artificial insemination (AI)?
AI is a reproductive technology in which sperm is manually introduced into a female’s reproductive tract to achieve pregnancy, facilitating genetic improvement in livestock.
Other Related Livestock Initiatives
- Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF): Supports the development of modern livestock facilities.
- National Animal Disease Control Programme: Focuses on eradicating livestock diseases.
- National Artificial Insemination Programme: Expands AI coverage to improve livestock productivity.
The Rashtriya Gokul Mission plays a pivotal role in safeguarding India’s rich bovine heritage while promoting technological advancements to boost the livestock sector.
