Role of Veterinarians & Livestock Sector for “Viksit Bharat@2047”
Dr. Anmol (MVSc., Animal Genetics and Breeding)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047 is a rallying call for India’s transformation into a global leader characterized by economic prosperity, social equity, environmental sustainability, and robust infrastructure. The launch of the Viksit Bharat@2047 initiative on December 11, 2023, underlines the importance of inclusive development through its four foundational pillars—Yuva (Youth), Garib (Poor), Mahila (Women), and Kisan (Farmers). Among these pillars, the livestock sector is a critical driver of rural empowerment, economic growth, and food security.
Veterinarians, as guardians of animal health and welfare, are at the forefront of this transformation. By addressing challenges in productivity, public health, and sustainability, they hold the key to unlocking the full potential of the livestock sector, thereby contributing to the overarching goal of a Shrestha Bharat (Great India).
Significance of the Livestock Sector in India
The livestock sector is a cornerstone of India’s agricultural economy, contributing approximately 4.11% to the national GDP and nearly 25% to the agricultural GDP. India leads the world in milk production and ranks among the top eggs, meat, and poultry producers. With over 70 million rural households engaged in livestock rearing, the sector is a lifeline for marginalized communities, especially small and marginal farmers.
Livestock as a Buffer Against Agrarian Challenges
Livestock plays a stabilizing role in rural economies, providing a reliable source of income during crop failures and adverse weather conditions. Additionally, it empowers women, who are primary caregivers for livestock in many households, fostering gender equity and economic inclusion.
Catalyst for Food Security
India’s growing population, projected to exceed 1.6 billion by 2047, underscores the importance of livestock in addressing protein and micronutrient deficiencies. Milk, meat, and eggs are vital components of a balanced diet, and a thriving livestock sector is essential for achieving nutritional security.
Veterinarians: The Pillars of Livestock Development
Veterinarians play a multifaceted role in enhancing productivity, safeguarding public health, and promoting sustainability. Their contributions extend far beyond treating illnesses, encompassing a wide array of responsibilities crucial for realizing Viksit Bharat@2047.
- Disease Control and Prevention
- Combating Major Diseases:Disease outbreaks such as foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and avian influenza significantly impact productivity and incomes. Veterinarians spearhead vaccination drives and disease monitoring systems, ensuring healthier livestock and stable livelihoods.
- Early Diagnosis:Advanced diagnostic tools employed by veterinarians enable early detection and containment of diseases, minimizing economic losses and improving animal welfare.
- Enhancing Livestock Productivity
- Scientific Breeding:With innovations like artificial insemination and embryo transfer technology, veterinarians are driving genetic improvements in livestock, resulting in higher yields.
- Nutrition Management:By advising on optimal feeding practices, they help farmers maximize the productivity of their livestock while reducing environmental footprints.
- Public Health and Food Safety
- Zoonotic Disease Control:Nearly 60% of infectious diseases in humans originate from animals. Veterinarians are crucial in controlling zoonotic diseases such as rabies, brucellosis, and tuberculosis, safeguarding public health.
- Ensuring Food Quality:They oversee the production of safe, high-quality animal-derived food products, reducing risks of contamination and enhancing consumer trust.
- Promoting Sustainable Practices
- Climate-Smart Agriculture:Veterinarians advocate for sustainable livestock farming practices, including waste management and precision feeding, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Climate Resilience:By promoting disease-resistant breeds and climate-adaptive practices, they support farmers in navigating the challenges of a changing climate.
- Supporting Rural Livelihoods and Women Empowerment
- Skill Development:Veterinarians train farmers, particularly women, in modern animal husbandry practices, enabling them to derive higher incomes from livestock.
- Market Linkages:They facilitate access to markets and financial services, ensuring farmers receive fair prices for their produce.
Challenges Facing the Livestock Sector
Despite its potential, the livestock sector faces significant obstacles that must be addressed to achieve the goals of Viksit Bharat@2047:
- High Disease Burden
Frequent outbreaks of infectious diseases result in massive economic losses and reduced productivity.
- Inadequate Infrastructure
The lack of veterinary clinics, diagnostic labs, and cold-chain facilities hampers effective service delivery, particularly in rural areas.
- Climate Change Impacts
Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and water scarcity threaten livestock health, fodder availability, and productivity.
- Low Productivity Levels
India’s per-animal productivity is below global standards due to inadequate breeding, feeding, and management practices.
Opportunities for Growth and Transformation
- Leveraging Technology
- Digital Innovations:Digital health records, mobile veterinary units, and IoT-based monitoring systems can revolutionize livestock management.
- Genetic Advances:Biotechnology can unlock new possibilities for disease-resistant and high-yield breeds.
- Expanding Exports
India’s growing reputation as a producer of quality dairy and meat products can boost exports, contributing to foreign exchange earnings.
- Fostering Rural Industrialization
Strengthening the livestock sector can drive rural industrialization, creating jobs and reducing regional inequalities.
- Policy Support
The Government of India has implemented several central schemes to promote the growth and sustainability of the animal husbandry sector, ensuring economic empowerment for rural communities and achieving food security. The National Livestock Mission (NLM) focuses on sustainable development by enhancing livestock productivity and entrepreneurship. It promotes skill development, breed improvement, and fodder cultivation. Similarly, the Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) is dedicated to conserving and developing indigenous bovine breeds through initiatives like Gokul Grams and modern genetic improvement techniques. The Livestock Health & Disease Control (LHDC) program addresses the health challenges of livestock by conducting nationwide vaccination drives and improving veterinary infrastructure.
For enhancing dairy infrastructure, the Dairy Processing and Infrastructure Development Fund (DIDF) provides financial assistance to modernize milk processing units and expand production capacities, benefiting farmers directly. The Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) facilitates private investment in dairy processing, meat production, and feed manufacturing, strengthening the value chain. Addressing financial challenges, the Pashu Kisan Credit Card Scheme ensures easy access to credit for livestock farmers at subsidized interest rates.
To boost livestock productivity, the National Artificial Insemination Programme (NAIP) provides free artificial insemination services, aiming to improve genetic potential. The Fodder and Feed Development Scheme ensures the availability of quality fodder and encourages sustainable practices like silage production. These initiatives collectively aim to empower rural communities, enhance livestock productivity, and align the sector with the vision of a sustainable and developed India by 2047.
A Roadmap to 2047: Strategies for Success
To align the livestock sector with the goals of Viksit Bharat@2047, a comprehensive and collaborative approach is essential.
- Strengthening Veterinary Infrastructure
Building state-of-the-art veterinary clinics, diagnostic labs, and cold-chain networks in underserved areas will ensure timely and effective animal healthcare.
- Investment in Research and Development
- Developing new vaccines and diagnostic tools will reduce the impact of diseases on livestock.
- Research into sustainable practices will align the sector with India’s climate goals.
- Education and Capacity Building
- Upgrading veterinary education and training programs will prepare professionals to address emerging challenges like antimicrobial resistance.
- Skill development initiatives for farmers will ensure widespread adoption of modern practices.
- Public-Private Partnerships
Collaborations between governments, private enterprises, and non-governmental organizations can scale up efforts in animal health, nutrition, and market access.
- Strengthening Community Engagement
Empowering farmers through awareness campaigns and training programs will enable them to play an active role in the sector’s growth.
Conclusion: Toward a Resilient and Prosperous India
The livestock sector, guided by the expertise of veterinarians, is poised to become a linchpin of India’s journey toward Viksit Bharat@2047. By addressing challenges and leveraging opportunities, the sector can drive rural development, ensure food security, and contribute to India’s global standing.
Veterinarians, as catalysts for progress, are pivotal to realizing this vision. Their work transcends animal health, touching upon human well-being, environmental sustainability, and economic growth. Together with farmers, policymakers, and stakeholders, veterinarians can lead India toward a future that embodies resilience, equity, and prosperity.
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi aptly put it, “Today, the goal of the country is Viksit Bharat, Shrestha Bharat!” The livestock sector, powered by innovation and collaboration, will be a cornerstone in building this vision—a developed India that stands tall on the global stage.
References
- Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India.
- National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) Reports and Publications.
- Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Statistics on Livestock.
- Veterinary Council of India (VCI) Guidelines.
- Reports from the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) on One Health Initiatives.
- Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) Statements and Speeches on Viksit Bharat@2047.
