The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has approved 22 proposals, including initiatives to strengthen the livestock sector, increase farmers’ income and create employment opportunities.
After the Cabinet meeting, Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development Minister Dharampal Singh said the state government aims to make animal husbandry a key source of income for farmers. Under the initiative, a subsidy of Rs 40,000 will be provided for the purchase of each indigenous cow, with a maximum subsidy for two cows per farmer. In addition to financial assistance, livestock insurance will also be provided. The government will bear 85% of the total insurance premium, while farmers will contribute the remaining 15%.
Singh said livestock development is essential to doubling farmers’ incomes, but the sector faces challenges such as low productivity, fragmented markets and inadequate value addition. To address these issues, the state has established the State Livestock Mission on the lines of the National Livestock Mission.
The mission aims to generate employment, promote entrepreneurship, increase animal productivity and improve market access. Through breed improvement using artificial insemination, the milk production of cows currently yielding two to three litres a day is targeted to be increased to 10 litres. The mission will also promote poultry, goat and sheep farming.
Promotion of Water Transport
The Uttar Pradesh government will introduce a registration system for boats and ships to streamline water transport in the state. Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh said an Inland Water Authority would be established to oversee the operation and monitoring of water transport.
He explained that large engine-powered vessels would fall under the mechanised category, while a separate category would be created for small motorised boats used in villages. A registration fee of Rs 50 has been proposed for non-passenger boats. Water transport-related activities will be undertaken on 11 rivers, including the Ganga and Yamuna.