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GS Paper: GS3-09.Economics of Animal Rearing

  • [pib] National Beekeeping & Honey Mission (NBHM)

    Why in the News?

    The National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (2020–21 to 2025–26) is set to conclude this fiscal year.

    About National Beekeeping & Honey Mission (NBHM):

    • Overview: A Central Sector Scheme (2020) under Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, promoting scientific beekeeping and driving a “Sweet Revolution” for rural income enhancement.
    • Implementing Agency: Executed by the National Bee Board (NBB) under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
    • Financial Outlay: ₹500 crore for FY 2020–21 to 2025–26.
    • Core Aim: Boost honey production, pollination-based crop productivity, and farmers’ income through structured beekeeping and processing infrastructure.
    • Technology & Quality Focus: Promotes traceability, quality assurance, and digital registration via the Madhukranti Portal.
    • Implementation Structure:
      1. Mini Mission–I: Enhances honey and hive product production through scientific beekeeping and pollination.
      2. Mini Mission–II: Focuses on post-harvest management, collection, processing, storage, marketing, and value addition.
      3. Mini Mission–III: Supports research, innovation, and capacity building for technology-driven solutions.
    • Institutional Network: Coordinated by NBB, involving NDDB, NAFED, TRIFED, ICAR, KVIC, SRLM/NRLM, and MSME bodies at national and state levels.

    Achievements & Progress:

    • Production & Exports: India produced 1.4 lakh MT honey (2024); exported 1.07 lakh MT worth USD 177.55 million (FY 2023–24), rising to 2nd globally from 9th in 2020.
    • Infrastructure Development: Established 6 world-class labs, 47 mini labs, 6 diagnostic labs, 8 hiring centres, 26 processing units, 18 branding units, and 10 cold storages.
    • Research Hub: National Centre of Excellence in Beekeeping set up at IIT Roorkee for innovation and training.
    • Empowerment Initiatives: 167 SHG projects, 97 FPOs, 424 ha demonstrations, and 288 ha bee-friendly plantations sanctioned for livelihood diversification.
    • Digital Integration: Madhukranti Portal hosts 14,859 beekeepers, 269 societies, 206 companies, with blockchain-based traceability for export-grade quality.
    • Policy Support: Minimum Export Price (MEP) of USD 2,000/MT (till Dec 2024) set to curb dumping of inferior honey and safeguard domestic producers.

  • State of the World’s Animal Health Report, 2025 by WOAH

    Why in the News?

    The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) released the first-ever State of the World’s Animal Health report.

    Key Highlights of the Report:

    • India faces high risk from transboundary animal diseases, with 47% of global outbreaks between 2005–2023 being zoonotic, affecting both animals and humans.
    • African Swine Fever (ASF), which jumped 1,800 km to Sri Lanka in 2024, threatens India’s northeast pig-rearing regions already impacted in past years.
    • Avian Influenza (HPAI) saw outbreaks in non-poultry species surpass poultry in 2024; India’s dense poultry population makes cross-species transmission a growing concern.
    • Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), endemic in India, showed new serotype SAT 3 and SAT 1 activity in other countries, posing vaccine adaptation challenges.
    • Diseases like Lumpy Skin Disease and PPR, both reported in India earlier, are now spreading to new global regions, highlighting potential for reintroduction.
    • WOAH urges global action on vaccine equity, surveillance, and biosecurity, which align with India’s need to safeguard livelihoods, trade, and food security.

    About the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH):

    • Establishment: WOAH, formerly known as OIE, was founded in 1924 and is headquartered in Paris, France.
    • Membership: It has 183 member countries, including India, and operates independently from the United Nations.
    • Mandate: WOAH is the global authority on animal health, working to control animal epidemics (epizootics) and improve global animal welfare.
    • Key Functions:
      • Runs the World Animal Health Information System (WAHIS) to track disease outbreaks.
      • Sets international health standards for trade in animals and animal products.
      • Promotes science-based animal welfare policies and transparent disease reporting.
      • Offers technical support to countries, especially developing nations.
    • Global Cooperation: Works with over 70 global partners, including the FAO.
    • India’s Role: India is a member and an active participant through the World Assembly of Delegates.
    [UPSC 2005] Which one of the following diseases of milching animals are infectious?

    1. Foot and Mouth disease

    2. Anthrax

    3. Black Quarter

    4. Cowpox

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    Options: (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2, 3 and 4 (c) 1 and 4 (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4*

     

  • Ongole Cows

    Why in the News?

    India’s indigenous cattle breed from Ongole is experiencing a sharp decline domestically, even as it has become one of the most prized and expensive cattle breeds in Brazil.

    Ongole Cows

    About Ongole Cows

    • Ongole cattle, also known as Ongolu Gitta, are a native Indian breed originating from Prakasam District, Andhra Pradesh.
    • This Bos indicus breed is historically renowned for its strength, resilience, and disease resistance.
    • It has been widely used for draught power, milk production, and breeding programs.
    • The breed has gained global prominence, especially in Brazil, where it forms the foundation of several superior cattle breeds used for beef production.
    • Though declining in India, they thrive in Brazil, where they form 80% of the cattle population and are used extensively for beef production.
    • LAM Farm, Guntur, is using IVF and embryo transfer for preservation.

    Distinct Features of Ongole Cattle:

    • Heat & Disease Resistance: Naturally adapted to high temperatures and immune to foot-and-mouth and mad cow disease.
    • Strength & Draught Power: Historically used for ploughing, transport, and bull races.
    • A2 Milk Production: Produces high-quality A2 milk, fetching ₹150+ per litre in premium markets.
    • Global Demand & Genetic Superiority: Exported to Brazil, USA, Argentina, and Australia. Used to develop breeds like Brahmana (USA) and Santa Gertrudis (USA).
    • Efficient Feed Conversion: Survives on minimal fodder, ideal for drought-prone regions.
    • High Fertility & Longevity: Strong reproductive lifespan, producing robust calves.
    • Cultural & Historical Importance:  Revered in Indian scriptures and associated with prosperity.

    PYQ:

    [2011] What is/are unique about ‘Kharai camel’, a breed found in India?

    1. It is capable of swimming up to three kilometres in seawater.

    2. It survives by grazing on mangroves.

    3. It lives in the wild and cannot be domesticated.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • [pib] Livestock Health and Disease Control Scheme (LHDCS)

    Why in the News?

    The Union Cabinet has approved the revision of the Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP).

    The revised scheme, with a total outlay of ₹3,880 crore for 2024-25 and 2025-26, includes a new component called “Pashu Aushadhi” to improve the availability of generic veterinary medicines.

    What is LHDC Scheme?

    About
    • Government of India initiative launched in 2022.
    • Aims to improve animal health, control livestock diseases, and enhance veterinary services.
    • Revised with ₹3,880 crore outlay for 2024-25 and 2025-26.
    • Includes “Pashu Aushadhi” for affordable veterinary medicines.
    Features of LHDC
    • Disease Control & Vaccination: Targets FMD, Brucellosis, PPR, CSF, Lumpy Skin Disease. Mass vaccination and eradication.
    • Veterinary Healthcare: Expansion of veterinary hospitals and Mobile Veterinary Units (MVUs).
    • Disease Surveillance: Strengthened disease reporting and monitoring systems.
    • “Pashu Aushadhi”: Affordable, high-quality veterinary medicines with ₹75 crore allocation.

    Sub-Components:

    1. Critical Animal Disease Control Programme (CADCP): Focuses on eradicating high-risk livestock diseases.
    2. Establishment & Strengthening of Veterinary Hospitals and Dispensaries (ESVHD-MVU): Expands mobile veterinary units (MVUs) for better access to veterinary care.
    3. Assistance to States for Control of Animal Diseases (ASCAD): Provides financial support to states for disease prevention and control.
    • Economic Benefits: Prevents livestock mortality and improves milk, meat, and wool production.
    Implementation & Funding Strategy: Coordinated efforts by Central and State Governments; monitoring and assessment mechanisms.

    Funding: ₹3,880 crore for 2024-25 and 2025-26:

    • 100% central funding for CADCP and non-recurring ESVHD components.
    • 60:40 share for other components and ASCAD.
    • 90:10 funding for North Eastern and Himalayan States.
    • 100% Central funding for Union Territories.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Livestock rearing has a big potential for providing non-farm employment and income in rural areas. Discuss suggesting suitable measures to promote this sector in India.

    [2012] Which of the following is the chief characteristic of ‘mixed farming’?
    (a) Cultivation of both cash crops and food crops
    (b) Cultivation of two or more crops in the same field
    (c) Rearing of animals and cultivation of crops together
    (d) None of the above

     

  • [pib] Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI)

    Why in the News?

    The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) recently organized Prani Mitra and Jeev Daya Award Ceremony in New Delhi.

    • Prani Mitra Awards were established in 1966 to honor individuals excelling in animal welfare and protection.
      • Since 1966, 54 individuals have received this award for their remarkable service.
    • Jeev Daya Awards, instituted in 2001, acknowledge efforts in animal rescue, rehabilitation, and welfare education.

    About the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI)

    • The AWBI is a statutory advisory body under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.
    • It was established in 1962 under Section 4 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960, with Rukmini Devi Arundale as its first chairperson.
    • Headquarters: Ballabhgarh, Haryana (previously in Chennai).
    • Composition: 28 members serving for a period of three years.
    • Jurisdiction: Initially under the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, later moved to the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, and is now managed by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.
    • Functions of AWBI:
      • Recognition of Animal Welfare Organizations (AWOs): Grants recognition to organizations meeting the Board’s guidelines.
      • Financial Assistance: Provides funds for shelters, cattle rescue, ambulances, and birth control programs.
      • Policy and Legal Advocacy: Proposes changes in animal welfare laws and offers guidance to law enforcement agencies.
      • Awareness and Education: Conducts educational programs, workshops, and publications on animal welfare.
      • Monitoring Animals in Research & Entertainment: Instrumental in setting up CPCSEA (Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals) and implementing Performing Animals Rules (2001, amended 2005).
      • Activism & Legal Rights for Animals: Successfully fought in 2014 (AWBI vs. Nagaraja case) for recognizing fundamental rights of animals under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.

    PYQ:

    [2014] Consider the following statements:

    1. Animal Welfare Board of India is established under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

    2. National Tiger Conservation Authority is a statutory body.

    3. National Ganga River Basin Authority is chaired by the Prime Minister.

    Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 2 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • [pib] Release of National Livestock Mission Operational Guidelines 2.0

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying has released operational guidelines 2.0 for National Livestock Mission (NLM).

    What are the new operational guidelines 2.0 for NLM?

    • It focuses on promoting entrepreneurship, cluster-based development, and sustainable practices in the livestock sector.
    • They emphasize financial assistance through schemes like the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF), capacity building, and modern technologies.
    • The launch of the NLM-EDP Dashboard ensures real-time monitoring and transparency.
    • Priority is given to poultry, dairy, and marginalized groups to drive equitable growth.

    About National Livestock Mission (NLM): Summary Table

    Details
    About
    • Launched in 2014-15, realigned in 2021-22 under the White Revolution – Rashtriya Pashudhan Vikas Yojana.
    • Aims to enhance livestock production quantity and quality while fostering entrepreneurship.
    • Overseen by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation
    • Comprises 3 sub-missions: (1) Breed Improvement of Livestock and Poultry, (2) Feed and Fodder Development, and (3) Innovation and Extension.
    • Focus on entrepreneurship through financial incentives for individuals, FPOs, SHGs, cooperatives, and startups.
    • Includes 10 activities, such as fodder cultivation and livestock insurance, emphasizing sustainable practices and stakeholder support.
    Features
    • Entrepreneurship Support: 50% subsidy (up to ₹50 lakh) for horse, donkey, mule, and camel conservation.
    • Fodder Seed Processing: Infrastructure eligible for 50% subsidy for private entities and cooperatives.
    • Fodder Cultivation: Assistance to state governments for growing fodder in degraded and non-arable lands.
    • Livestock Insurance: Reduced farmer premiums (15%), expanded animal coverage, and enhanced Centre-State funding (60:40 or 90:10).

    What is the Status of Livestock Sector in India?

    • The livestock sector grew at a CAGR of 7.9% from 2014-15 to 2020-21
    • Contribution to Agricultural GDP increased from 24.3% in 2014-15 to 30.1% in 2020-21
    • Contributes 4.35% to the national GDP in fiscal year 2022-23
    • Total livestock population: Approximately 536.76 million animals
    • Population growth: 4.8% increase since 2012
    • Global Livestock Ownership Highlights:
      • 12.50% of world’s cattle population
      • 56.70% of world’s buffalo population
      • World’s second-largest poultry market
    • Major Schemes and Programmes:
      • Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM): Launched in December 2014 for breed development
      • National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP): Focuses on controlling Foot & Mouth Disease and Brucellosis
      • Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF): Approved 116 projects worth INR 3,731.4 crore

    PYQ:

    [2012] Which of the following is the chief characteristic of ‘mixed farming’?

    (a) Cultivation of both cash crops and food crops

    (b) Cultivation of two or more crops in the same field

    (c) Rearing of animals and cultivation of crops together

    (d) None of the above

  • Matsya Seva Kendras

    Why in the News?

    India’s fisheries sector, contributing to the livelihoods of over 3 crore fishers and producing a record 175 lakh tons of fish in 2022-23, is being strengthened through initiatives like Matsya Seva Kendras.

    About Matsya Seva Kendra (MSK)

    • MSKs are one-stop centers established under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to support fishers and fish farmers.
    • They provide a wide range of technical, advisory, and capacity-building services aimed at modernizing the fisheries sector and ensuring sustainable practices.
    • Role of MSKs:
      • Offer water, soil, and microbial analysis to address disease management and improve aquaculture productivity.
      • Conduct capacity-building programs for fishers, focusing on sustainable practices and advanced aquaculture techniques.
      • Empower women and weaker sections with 60% financial assistance for setting up MSKs.
      • Mobilize start-ups, cooperatives, and fish farmer producer organizations to share best practices.
      • Promote regenerative and conservation practices to tackle challenges posed by climate change.

    About Pradhan Mantri Matsya Samapada Yojana (PMMSY):

    • The scheme aims to bring about a Blue Revolution through sustainable and responsible development of India’s fisheries sector.
    • It was launched as part of the ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’ package with an investment of ₹20,050 crore, the highest-ever allocation for the fisheries sector.
    • It is implemented across all States and Union Territories from FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25.
    • It provides insurance coverage, financial assistance, and Kisan Credit Card (KCC) facilities to fishers.
    • It is implemented as an umbrella scheme with two components:
      • Central Sector Scheme: Entirely funded by the Central Government.
      • Centrally Sponsored Scheme: Cost shared between the Centre and States/UTs.

    How Do Sagar Mitras Support Fishers?

    • Sagar Mitras act as a vital link between the government and sea-borne fishers, facilitating access to information and resources in coastal regions.
    • Role of Sagar Mitras:
      • Collect data on marine catch, price trends, and market requirements.
      • Provide updates on local regulations, weather conditions, and potential fishing zones.
      • Educate fishers on hygienic fish handling, sustainable fishing techniques, and compliance with regulatory measures.
      • Act as a key contact during emergencies, offering information on natural calamities and safety protocols.

    PYQ:

    [2018] Defining the Blue Revolution, explain the problems and strategies of fisheries in India. 

  • National Milk Day

    Why in the News?

    National Milk Day on November 26 commemorates the birth anniversary of ‘The Milkman of India’, Dr Verghese Kurien, who was credited with making India self-reliant in milk production.

    About National Milk Day:

    Details • Observed on November 26 to honor Dr. Verghese Kurien’s contributions to India’s dairy industry and the White Revolution.
    • Celebrates India’s transformation into the world’s largest milk producer.
    Contributions made by Varghese Kurien • Born on November 26, 1921, in Kozhikode, Kerala.
    • Played a key role in establishing Amul (1949) and transforming it into a global dairy brand.
    • Inaugural chairman of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).
    • Led Operation Flood, which revolutionized India’s dairy industry and made it self-sufficient in milk production.
    • Received numerous awards, including the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership (1963).
    About the White Revolution and Milk Production in India • Initiated in 1970 through Operation Flood to increase milk production and reduce dependence on milk powder imports.
    • Empowered dairy farmers by promoting a cooperative-based model for milk production.
    • By the late 1990s, India became the world’s largest milk producer, surpassing the US.
    • Milk production grew threefold, from 21.2 million tonnes in 1968-69 to over 55 million tonnes by 1991-92.
    • Helped build the infrastructure for milk supply chains, processing plants, and storage facilities, making milk more accessible.
    • Significantly improved the income and livelihood of rural farmers, boosting employment and economic development.

    India is ranked 1st in milk production, contributing 24% of global milk production, reaching 230.58 million tonnes in 2022-23. 

  • Project to monitor animal health launched

    Why in the News?

    The Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying launched the ‘Animal Health Security Strengthening in India for Pandemic Preparedness and Response’ initiative in New Delhi.

    What is the primary aim of the Animal Health Security Project?

    The Animal Health Security Project aims to strengthen India’s capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to animal health threats, reducing zoonotic disease risks through enhanced surveillance, laboratory systems, and regional collaboration.

    What are the objectives of the Animal Health Security Project?

    • Prevention, Detection, and Response: Enhance India’s ability to prevent, detect, and respond to animal health threats, minimizing risks of pathogens transmitting from animals to humans.
    • Strengthen Surveillance Systems: Improve and integrate animal disease surveillance and early warning systems to promptly identify potential threats.
    • Laboratory and Vaccine Infrastructure: Upgrade and expand laboratory networks and vaccine manufacturing facilities to ensure preparedness.
    • Data Systems and Analytics: Strengthen interoperable data systems and analytics capabilities to support informed decision-making and risk communication.
    • Cross-Border Collaboration: Promote regional cooperation for transboundary animal disease control through cross-border collaborations.

    How is the project funded and what is its timeline?

    • The project is funded by the Pandemic Fund established by the G20 countries, which aims to help low- and middle-income countries improve their pandemic preparedness.
      • The fund’s first round raised $2 billion, and India’s project received a $25 million grant.
    • The project will be implemented by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the World Bank, and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
    • Timeline: Expected to conclude by August 2026.

    Why is this project necessary for India?

    • Zoonotic Disease Threat: About two-thirds of infectious diseases in humans are zoonotic (transmitted from animals), with recent examples including COVID-19. India’s large population of 536 million livestock makes it vulnerable to zoonotic outbreaks.
    • Public Health Impact: With five of the six major global public health emergencies in recent decades being zoonotic, the project is crucial for India’s pandemic prevention and public health security.
    • Vulnerable Population Protection: By addressing animal health threats, the project aims to protect the health, nutritional security, and livelihoods of vulnerable populations reliant on livestock.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Coordination Across Sectors: Enhance collaboration between animal health, public health, and environmental sectors to create an integrated response to zoonotic threats, ensuring swift data sharing and response mechanisms.
    • Sustain Capacity Building and Infrastructure Investments: Ensure continued investment in laboratory networks, vaccine production, and training to maintain preparedness, and bolster resilience against emerging animal-to-human diseases beyond the project’s timeline.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented devastation worldwide. However, technological advancements are being availed readily to win over the crisis. Give an account of how technology was sought to aid management of the pandemic. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • [pib] Development of Tuna Cluster in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

    Why in the News?

    The Department of Fisheries has notified the creation of a Tuna Cluster in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).

    • The A&N Islands offer significant opportunities for fisheries development with approximately 6.0 lakh square km of Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
    • This region has rich sea resources, particularly Tuna and Tuna-like species, with an estimated potential of 60,000 metric tons.
    • The islands’ location near Southeast Asia enables efficient sea and air trade, and the pristine waters support sustainable fishing.

    About Tuna Species and its Significance

    • Tuna are large, fast-swimming fish belonging to the Thunnini tribe within the Scombridae family.
    • Known for their streamlined bodies and remarkable agility, tuna are found in tropical and temperate oceans worldwide.
    • There are over 15 species of tuna, with some of the most well-known being Bluefin, Yellowfin, Albacore, Bigeye, and Skipjack.
    • Tuna can grow quickly and live for several decades, with species like Bluefin reaching over 450 kg in weight.
    • It is one of the most popular and valuable fish in the global seafood market, highly sought after for its flavor, texture, and nutritional value.
    • Species like Bluefin tuna are particularly valuable, often fetching high prices in markets, especially in Japan for dishes like sushi and sashimi.
    • It is rich in protein, low in saturated fat, and packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, brain function, and inflammation reduction.
    • It also provides essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin D, B12, iron, and selenium.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] The most important fishing grounds of the world are found in the regions where

    (a) Warm and cold atmospheric currents meet

    (b) Rivers drain out large amounts of freshwater into the sea

    (c) Warm and cold oceanic currents meet

    (d) Continental shelf is undulating