The national livestock mission (NLM) is a flagship program of the Indian government aimed at promoting sustainable development of the livestock sector. In this article, we will explore the goals of the NLM, its benefits, and how it can help entrepreneurs and livestock farmers.
What is the National Livestock Mission?
Launched in 2014, the national livestock mission is a government initiative that aims to promote sustainable development of the livestock sector in India. The mission focuses on improving livestock productivity, increasing availability of fodder, promoting animal health and welfare, and enhancing market access for livestock products.
Goals of the national livestock mission
The goals of the NLM include:
- Increasing milk, meat, and egg production: The mission aims to increase the productivity of milch animals, poultry, and other livestock to boost milk, meat, and egg production.
- Enhancing fodder production: The NLM aims to increase the availability of quality fodder through the development of fodder reserves, cultivation of improved fodder crops, and promotion of silage making.
- Improving animal health: The NLM aims to promote animal health and welfare by providing vaccination, diagnostic services, and preventive and curative healthcare.
- Enhancing market access for livestock products: The mission aims to increase the market access for livestock products through the establishment of market infrastructure, processing facilities, and promotion of private sector investment.
Sub-missions of the National Livestock Mission (NLM)
The National Livestock Mission (NLM) is a centrally sponsored scheme aimed at sustainable development and conservation of livestock resources in India. Under the NLM, several sub-missions have been initiated to address specific areas of concern and promote holistic growth in the livestock sector.
- Livestock development: This sub-mission focuses on improving livestock productivity through breed improvement, veterinary healthcare, and nutrition management.
- Livestock health and disease control: Aimed at controlling and preventing livestock diseases, this sub-mission emphasizes vaccination drives, disease surveillance, and establishment of veterinary health infrastructure.
- Livestock insurance: To mitigate the risks faced by livestock farmers, this sub-mission promotes the adoption of livestock insurance schemes to provide financial protection against losses due to natural calamities and diseases.
- Fodder and feed development: Addressing the shortage of quality fodder and feed, this sub-mission aims to enhance fodder production, promote efficient feed management practices, and establish fodder banks.
- Capacity building and training: Focused on enhancing the skills and knowledge of livestock farmers and stakeholders, this sub-mission facilitates training programs, workshops, and awareness campaigns on various aspects of livestock management and entrepreneurship.
Through these sub-missions, the NLM aims to catalyze the growth of the livestock sector, improve farmers' livelihoods, and contribute to food security and rural development in India.
Benefits of the National Livestock Mission
By promoting sustainable development of the livestock sector, the national livestock mission can provide several benefits, including:
- Improved livelihoods: The mission can provide income generation opportunities for livestock farmers and entrepreneurs, leading to improved livelihoods.
- Increased milk, meat, and egg production: By focusing on improving the productivity of milch animals, poultry, and other livestock, the mission can help increase milk, meat, and egg production, which can improve food security.
- Greater market access: Promoting private sector investment and enhancing market access for livestock products can lead to increased income for producers and more choices for consumers.
- Enhanced animal health: Improved veterinary services and animal healthcare can lead to better animal health and welfare, reducing the risk of disease outbreaks and improving the quality of livestock products.
Beneficiaries under NLM
- Livestock farmers
- Breeders
- Dairy farmers
- Other stakeholders in the livestock sector
Eligibility for NLM
To benefit from the National Livestock Mission (NLM), individuals or entities must meet certain eligibility criteria:
- Livestock Farmers: Individuals engaged in rearing livestock such as cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, poultry, and pigs are eligible for support under the NLM.
- Dairy farmers: Farmers involved in milk production and dairy activities, including small-scale dairy cooperatives and entrepreneurs, are eligible for assistance.
- Breeders: Individuals or organizations engaged in livestock breeding activities aimed at improving breed quality and productivity are eligible for support.
- Veterinary service providers: Veterinary doctors, technicians, and service providers offering healthcare and vaccination services to livestock are eligible for training and capacity building under the NLM.
- Entrepreneurs in livestock sector: Individuals or groups involved in setting up livestock-based enterprises, such as dairy processing units, feed mills, and veterinary clinics, may also qualify for assistance.
- Cooperatives and self-help groups: Livestock cooperatives, self-help groups, and producer organizations working for the welfare of livestock farmers are eligible for institutional support and capacity building initiatives.
By meeting these eligibility criteria, stakeholders can access various schemes, programs, and incentives offered by the NLM to promote sustainable development and growth in the livestock sector.
NLM application process
Begin by registering yourself or your organization with the National Livestock Mission (NLM) through the designated portal or by contacting the relevant authorities.
- Complete the application form provided by NLM, ensuring all required fields are accurately filled in and necessary documentation is attached.
- Prepare a detailed project proposal outlining the objectives, activities, expected outcomes, and budget for your proposed livestock development project.
- Conduct a feasibility study to assess the viability and potential impact of your project, considering factors such as market demand, resources availability, and technical feasibility.
- Submit the completed application form along with the project proposal and any additional required documents to the designated NLM office or online portal within the specified deadline.
- If your project proposal meets the criteria and is approved, you will receive notification from NLM along with further instructions for project implementation.
Upon approval, proceed with implementing the project according to the proposed timeline and budget, adhering to guidelines provided by NLM and reporting progress periodically as required.
Documents required for NLM
- Evidence of the applicant's investment in the project.
- Roster of farmers affiliated with the project.
- Verification of applicant's address.
- Audited financial statements from the preceding three years (for corporate entities).
- Income tax returns for the past three years.
- Income tax returns for the past three years.
- Bank statements spanning the last six months.
- PAN/Aadhar card of the primary promoter.
- Certification of training completion.
- Caste certificate (if relevant).
- Documentation of prior experience.
- Scanned copies of applicant's photograph and signature.
Getting a business loan for livestock farming
Entrepreneurs and livestock farmers looking to start or expand their livestock enterprises can benefit from the national livestock mission. However, to take advantage of the opportunities the mission presents, financing may be necessary. Bajaj Finance offers business loans tailored to the needs of livestock farmers and entrepreneurs. This can help finance the purchase of livestock, land, machinery, and other essential inputs.
The national livestock mission is a significant initiative by the Indian government aimed at boosting the sustainable development of the livestock sector. By promoting increased productivity, enhancing market access, and improving animal health, the NLM can provide numerous benefits for the livestock farmers, entrepreneurs, and the economy. If you plan on starting or expanding your livestock enterprise, consider getting a Bajaj Finserv Business Loan to help finance the necessary inputs