The National Livestock Mission (NLM) is an initiative launched by the Government of India to enhance livestock development in the country. Livestock plays a critical role in the agricultural economy, providing employment, income, and nutritional support to millions of rural households. Recognizing its importance, the National Livestock Mission focuses on sustainable development, productivity improvement, and entrepreneurship in the livestock sector. With various components addressing breed improvement, feed and fodder development, and infrastructure enhancement, NLM aims to create a robust and inclusive livestock ecosystem in India.

What is the National Livestock Mission?

The National Livestock Mission was introduced by the Government of India in the financial year 2014-15 to ensure sustainable livestock development. It integrates several schemes and policies to address challenges such as breed improvement, lack of infrastructure, and feed availability. The NLM also integrates modern technologies and financial support systems to improve livestock productivity and ensure the well-being of animals.

Key Objectives of the National Livestock Mission

The National Livestock Mission aims to promote comprehensive livestock development in India. Its primary objectives include:

1. Enhancing Livestock Productivity
   The mission focuses on breed improvement and genetic enhancement to boost productivity and quality across various livestock categories.
2. Entrepreneurship Development
   By providing subsidies and financial support, NLM encourages rural entrepreneurship in livestock-related activities such as dairy farming, poultry, and goat rearing.
3. Sustainability and Environment-Friendly Practices
   The mission emphasizes sustainable practices, including efficient use of resources, better animal waste management, and eco-friendly farming techniques.
4. Feed and Fodder Development
   To address feed scarcity, NLM promotes the production and distribution of quality feed and fodder, ensuring better nutrition for livestock.
5. Infrastructure Support
   Establishing modern facilities for breeding, veterinary care, and value-added services is a significant aspect of the mission.

National Livestock Mission Subsidy and Benefits

The National Livestock Mission (NLM) offers a 50% capital subsidy to support the establishment of livestock farms, fodder value addition units, and storage facilities. This subsidy is accessible to individuals, self-help groups, and other eligible entities to encourage sustainable livestock development and entrepreneurship.

For example:

• Poultry Farming Subsidy: Farmers receive financial aid for setting up small and medium-scale poultry units.
• Dairy Farming Subsidy: Assistance is provided for dairy infrastructure like milk processing units, chilling centers, and veterinary services.
• Feed and Fodder Subsidy: Promotes the production of high-quality feed and fodder to address nutritional deficiencies in livestock.

This financial support significantly reduces the initial investment burden, making livestock ventures more accessible to rural communities.

Components of the National Livestock Mission

The NLM is divided into four sub-missions, each focusing on a specific aspect of livestock development:

1. Sub-Mission on Breed Development
   This component targets genetic improvement of livestock through advanced breeding technologies. It supports the establishment of breeding farms and centers to ensure the supply of high-quality animals.
2. Sub-Mission on Feed and Fodder Development
   The availability of quality feed and fodder is crucial for enhancing livestock productivity. This sub-mission promotes fodder cultivation, silage production, and the establishment of fodder banks.
3. Sub-Mission on Livestock Health
   Veterinary services, disease control, and vaccination programs fall under this component. It aims to reduce livestock mortality and improve animal health through preventive and curative measures.
4. Sub-Mission on Livestock Entrepreneurship Development
   Encouraging rural youth and small-scale farmers to take up livestock-based businesses, this component provides financial support, training, and market linkages.

National Livestock Mission Portal

The National Livestock Mission Portal (nlm.udyamimitra.in) serves as an online platform for stakeholders to access information, apply for subsidies, and track their applications. It offers a user-friendly interface with detailed guidelines on eligibility, documentation, and application processes for various schemes under the mission.

National Livestock Policy

The National Livestock Policy complements the NLM by providing a strategic framework for livestock development. It addresses critical areas like animal health, welfare, climate resilience, and market access. The policy aims to integrate traditional livestock practices with modern techniques to create a sustainable and competitive livestock sector.