New Delhi- The Central Government has started the 21st Livestock Census at a cost of Rs 200 crore. The counting work will be completed by February next year. In this, 219 breeds of 16 species will be counted. At the all-India level, about 1 lakh field officers, mostly veterinarians or para-veterinarians, will be involved in the counting process.
Disease-free animal products will prove to be a milestone for the export of animal products outside the country. A $ 2.5 million 'Pandemic Fund Project' was also launched to strengthen animal health security in India for pandemic preparedness.
Union Minister for Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh emphasized the important role of livestock census in shaping policies that ensure sustainable development of India's livestock sector. He said that India's livestock sector not only contributes greatly to our rural economy but is also an important source of nutrition, employment and income for millions of families.
The 21st Livestock Census will provide us with updated data on livestock, which will enable the government to implement key issues such as disease control, breed improvement and rural income. The data collected in this census will be more accurate, timely and comprehensive than ever before.