The Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, launched the 21st Livestock Census in New Delhi. The census, which will continue until February 2025, is funded by the central government at a cost of ₹200 crore. This initiative aims to collect accurate data to support policy-making for animal health security and the growth of India’s livestock sector.
Key Highlights of the 21st Livestock Census
- Launch Date: October 25, 2024
- Conducted By: Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying
- Duration: Until February 2025
- Cost: ₹200 crore, funded by the central government
- Purpose: To gather precise data to improve animal health, boost rural livelihoods, and promote the growth of the livestock sector.
Minister’s Statement
Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh emphasized the importance of accurate data collection, stating, “This census will provide crucial insights for the government to formulate policies that ensure animal health and promote rural development. With digital advancements, we aim for more accurate, timely, and comprehensive data.”
Census Details
- Scope: The census will cover 219 indigenous breeds across 15 livestock species, including cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, and poultry birds.
- Participants: Over 1 lakh field officials, mainly veterinarians and para-veterinarians, will be involved in data collection.
- Technological Innovations: Use of mobile apps for real-time data collection, gender roles in livestock rearing, and breed identification through images.
| Key Details | Description |
| Duration | October 2024 – February 2025 |
| Cost | ₹200 crore |
| Participating Officials | 1 lakh (veterinarians/para-veterinarians) |
| Species Covered | 15 including cattle, buffalo, goats |
| Digital Innovations | Mobile apps, real-time monitoring |
Importance of the Livestock Census
- Animal Health Security: Helps in disease control and breed improvement.
- Rural Economy: Supports the livelihoods of over 2.1 crore people, contributing to India’s agricultural economy.
- Global Best Practices: Aligns India’s livestock sector with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Related Initiatives
In addition to the census, a USD 25 million ‘Pandemic Fund Project’ was launched to improve animal health security and preparedness.
21st Livestock Census Launched Summary
- Launch: 21st Livestock Census launched by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh.
- Budget: Funded with ₹200 crore by the central government.
- Technology: Digital tools and mobile apps for real-time data collection.
- Scope: Covers 219 breeds across 15 species including poultry.
- Goals: To boost animal health, rural livelihoods, and align with SDGs.
Also Read Latest Current Affairs 2024
The purpose is to collect accurate data to improve animal health, promote growth in the livestock sector, and support rural livelihoods.
The census will run from October 2024 until February 2025.
The census is funded by the central government at a cost of ₹200 crore
The census will cover 15 species, including cattle, buffalo, goats, sheep, and various poultry birds.
Around 1 lakh field officials, mainly veterinarians and para-veterinarians, will be involved in the data collection process.
The census will use mobile apps for real-time data collection, breed identification, and monitoring through a web-based dashboard.
Accurate livestock data helps the government to design policies that support rural livelihoods, improve animal health, and boost agricultural productivity.
