Odisha's Bold Reforms for Animal Welfare and Dairy Development

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announces amendments to the Orissa Prevention of Cow Slaughter Act to curb animal cruelty. Plans include new schemes like Mukhyamantri Kamadhenu Yojana and GOMATA Yojana to boost dairy and animal health. Odisha collaborates with National Dairy Development Board for production and insurance enhancements.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced on Friday the state's intent to amend the Orissa Prevention of Cow Slaughter Act, 1960. The proposed changes aim to strengthen measures against animal cruelty. Speaking at the 'Monsoon Meet' organized by the Ministry of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Majhi underscored Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of supporting small farmers by broadening the scope of animal husbandry and related activities.

In a bid to boost milk production, the state has introduced the 'Mukhyamantri Kamadhenu Yojana,' featuring a five-year budget of Rs 1,423.47 crore. This plan will support small dairy units, offer subsidized calf feed, expand livestock insurance, and fortify dairy cooperatives. Odisha has also partnered with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) to enhance state milk cooperatives and increase milk production. The collaboration extends to establishing a vaccine production unit in Berhampur and a feed analytical lab in Bhubaneswar.

The government is also focusing on poultry and small animal production through the 'Prani Sampad Samrudhhi Yojana' and a forthcoming 'Small Animal Breeding Policy.' The GOMATA (Goal for Management And Treatment of Animals) Yojana will elevate livestock health care via mobile veterinary clinics. Additionally, the 'Mukhyamantri Prani Kalyan Yojana' aims to foster compassion towards stray animals. Majhi emphasized the critical role of animal husbandry and dairy sectors in India's food security, rural development, and economic growth, particularly as Odisha approaches its centenary in 2036.

(With inputs from agencies.)