In an effort to boost Gujarat’s rural economy and acknowledge excellence in animal husbandry, the state government will host the ‘Best Livestock Breeder Award’ ceremony at the National Forensic Sciences University in Gandhinagar. State Animal Husbandry Minister Jitu Vaghani and Minister of State for Animal Husbandry Ramesh Katara will present the awards to exceptional livestock breeders from across Gujarat. This initiative aims to revitalize animal husbandry, a vital component of Gujarat’s rural economy, and recognize breeders who have excelled in milk production and animal health through a blend of modern technology and traditional practices.
Under the state-level Best Livestock Breeder Award program, breeders ranking first, second, and third at the state level will be awarded prize money of Rs 1 lakh, Rs 51,000, and Rs 31,000 respectively, along with official recognition. Awards will also be distributed at district and taluka levels, with first prize winners at the district level receiving Rs 25,000 and second prize winners getting Rs 20,000. Similarly, at the taluka level, breeders in the top position will be granted Rs 20,000, and those in the second position will receive Rs 10,000 as incentive support.
A total of 565 livestock breeders from Gujarat will be honored under this scheme, including three at the state level, 66 at the district level, and 496 at the taluka level, with the total incentive amount exceeding Rs 91 lakh. These awards not only aim to acknowledge individual achievements but also to promote the adoption of best practices in animal husbandry, fostering sustainable rural development and increased income for livestock-dependent households in Gujarat. Gujarat boasts a robust livestock sector, significantly contributing to the state’s rural economy, with animal husbandry playing a crucial role in farmers’ income and livelihood security.
The state is home to a substantial population of cattle, buffaloes, sheep, goats, and poultry, with dairying serving as the cornerstone of livestock activities. Gujarat stands as one of the top milk-producing states in India, driven by a strong cooperative network comprising village-level milk societies and dairy unions. This sector supports numerous rural households by ensuring year-round income, offering employment opportunities for women, and enhancing nutritional security. Government initiatives focusing on breed enhancement, animal health services, vaccination, fodder development, and modern technology utilization have further bolstered productivity, positioning livestock as a fundamental element of Gujarat’s agricultural and rural development framework.
