Centre Releases Over Rs.24,600 Lakh for Indigenous Cattle Development in Andhra Pradesh

New Delhi, March 19: The Centre has released over ₹24,600 lakh under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) to Andhra Pradesh between 2014–15 and 2025–26 to support indigenous cattle development, the Lok Sabha was informed.

In a written reply, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh said the funds have been largely utilised by the state over the years, with utilisation matching releases in most financial years.

According to official data, major allocations were made in recent years, including ₹5,652.38 lakh in 2021–22, ₹3,538.38 lakh in 2023–24, and ₹3,184.16 lakh in 2024–25. An amount of ₹1,500 lakh has been released in 2025–26 so far, with utilisation yet to be reported.

Gokul Grams Established

The minister said 16 Gokul Grams were established in the state under the scheme. However, the component has been discontinued under the revised and realigned Rashtriya Gokul Mission for the period 2021–22 to 2025–26.

Rise in Indigenous Cattle Population

The government said the scheme has contributed to a significant increase in indigenous bovine breeds. At the national level, the population of indigenous cattle rose by nearly 30% between 2013 and 2022.

In Andhra Pradesh, the increase was higher at 62.11% during the same period, reflecting the impact of both central and state-level interventions.

Focus on Breed Improvement

The Rashtriya Gokul Mission aims to conserve and develop indigenous bovine breeds, improve milk productivity, and enhance farmers’ income through scientific breeding and better livestock management practices.

The government said coordinated efforts under the mission have supported breed improvement and strengthened the livestock sector in the state.