Why in news?
Cabinet approved the proposal for establishment of Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog for Conservation, protection and development of cows and their progeny. Consequently, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare constituted an apex advisory body, Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog in February 2019.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare constituted an apex advisory body, Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog in February 2019.
What are the objectives of the body set up?
The Aayog has been constituted for the conservation, protection, and development of cows and their progeny. Other objectives of the Aayog include: (i) properly implementing laws that prohibit slaughter and cruelty to cows, and (ii) providing direction to cattle development programmes and schemes.
The Aayog will develop a policy framework and formulate guidelines with the aim of achieving:
(i) sustainable development and upgradation of genetic resources of cows,
(ii) enhanced dairy production and productivity, and
(iii) protection and promotion of the interest of stakeholders in the dairy industry.
What will the function of the body?
The Aayog will work in collaboration with Veterinary, Animal Sciences or Agriculture University or departments or organizations of the Central/State Government engaged in the task of research in the field of breeding and rearing of cow, organic manure, biogas etc.
It will take up scientific activities for genetic upgradation and increasing productivity of cows.
It will provide the policy framework and direction to the cow conservation and development programmes in the country and for ensuring proper implementation of laws with respect to the welfare of cows.
What is the background?
Union Minister, in interim budget, announced that Rs 750 crore would be allocated for the Rashtriya Gokul Mission. Under the scheme, a ‘Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog’ would be set up.
What is the need and significance?
The setting up of Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog will lead to conservation, protection and development of cattle population in the country including development and conservation of indigenous breeds.
It will result in increased growth of livestock sector which is more inclusive, benefitting women, and small and marginal farmers.