Punjab, India has achieved a significant milestone in dairy sector development by insuring over 30,000 milch cattle under the National Livestock Mission, ensuring financial security for dairy farmers and boosting youth engagement in livestock entrepreneurship.
The Punjab Dairy Development Department, under the leadership of Gurmeet Singh Khudian, Minister of Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development and Fisheries, has achieved a key milestone by insuring 30,598 milch cattle across the state. This effort aims to safeguard the livelihoods of dairy farmers by providing financial security under the National Livestock Mission.
Minister Khudian, while reviewing departmental projects, highlighted the success of the Risk Management and Livestock Insurance Scheme. Under this scheme, general farmers pay a subsidized annual premium of ₹1,120, while SC/ST farmers pay ₹672, with a claim limit of up to ₹70,000 per insured animal. So far, ₹7.39 crore has been disbursed to 1,056 dairy farmers facing losses, delivering critical financial support.
Reaffirming the Punjab Government’s dedication under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Minister Khudian directed officials to actively promote dairy entrepreneurship among youth and expand awareness of available schemes.
Rahul Bhandari, Principal Secretary, Animal Husbandry, reported that ₹3 crore has been allocated in FY 2024–25 to support 204 farmers in setting up dairy units with 2–20 animals.
To foster self-employment, 9,150 unemployed youth have been trained in dairy farming practices. Additionally, 47 seminars and awareness camps at the state and district levels were organized to guide farmers on insurance benefits, claims, and livestock health.
The meeting was also attended by Kuldeep Singh, Director of Dairy Development, and senior department officials.
This initiative underscores Punjab’s efforts to modernize its dairy sector, mitigate risks for farmers, and empower the next generation through skill development and financial inclusion.