National Livestock Mission (NLM)

✦Key Features

• Budget FY2025-26: ₹1,082 crore; sub-missions across breed development, feed, risk
• India: largest livestock population globally — 535 million (20th Livestock Census, 2019)
• Rashtriya Gokul Mission: conservation of indigenous bovine breeds (sub-mission under NLM)
• Livestock Insurance Scheme: 50% premium subsidy for BPL farmers
• EDEG (Entrepreneurship Development and Employment Generation) component
• E-Pashu Haat: national portal for indigenous breeds trading
• India: largest milk producer globally (22% of world production); 230 million MT (2023-24)

✓Eligibility Criteria

• Individual entrepreneurs, Self Help Groups (SHGs), and Joint Liability Groups (JLGs) are eligible for various livestock entrepreneurship programs.
• Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Section 8 companies engaged in poultry, sheep, goat, or piggery development can apply.
• Applicants must have secured land for the project and possess relevant experience or certification in livestock management.
• The project must be credit-linked, meaning the applicant must secure a bank loan for the remaining project cost.

★Benefits

• Provision of a 50% capital subsidy, up to a maximum of Rs. 50 lakh, for setting up breeding farms and livestock units.
• Financial support for the establishment of fodder blocks, silage making units, and seed processing plants to improve feed security.
• Risk management coverage through livestock insurance, with the government subsidizing a significant portion of the premium for farmers.
• Systemic enhancement of the livestock sector through improved animal health services and better genetic stock availability.

▶Application Process

• Eligible candidates must register and fill out the application form on the National Livestock Mission (NLM) online portal.
• The application is first reviewed by the District Level Executive Committee (DLEC) for local feasibility and compliance.
• The State Level Executive Committee (SLEC) evaluates the DLEC's recommendations and sends the approved list to the Central Government.
• Subsidies are disbursed directly to the beneficiary's loan account through the Small Farmers' Agri-Business Consortium (SFAC).

₹ Budget Allocation

1082

Funding Ratio (Centre:State): 60:40 (Center:State); 90:10 for NE/Hilly states.

Historical Context

Launched in 2014-15; restructured in 2021 to focus on breed improvement of poultry, sheep, goat, and piggery along with feed and fodder development.