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21st Livestock Census A Comprehensive Initiative for India’s Livestock Sector

Introduction

The Indian government is set to embark on a crucial initiative with the launch of the 21st Livestock Census, aimed at gathering vital data to enhance the livestock sector. Scheduled for October 25, 2024, at Hotel Leela Ambience Convention in Shahdara, New Delhi, the event will be graced by Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, the Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying. This initiative will play a significant role in shaping policies and programs in animal husbandry across the nation.

Key Participants at the Launch

The launch event will feature several dignitaries, including:

• Chief Guest: Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.

• Guests of Honour: Ministers of State Shri Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel and Shri George Kurian.

• Distinguished Participants:

• Shri Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa

• Prof. Dr. V.K. Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog

• Ms. Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying

• Ms. Punya Salila Srivastava, Secretary, Health & Family Welfare

A Historical Perspective

The Livestock Census has been a regular exercise in India since 1919, occurring every five years. This upcoming Census marks the 21st iteration and is essential for providing data that informs policy decisions and program implementations in animal husbandry.

Timeline and Collaboration

Conducted between October 2024 and February 2025, the Census will be supported by State and Union Territory Animal Husbandry and Dairying departments, ensuring comprehensive coverage across various regions.

Innovative Data Collection Methods

In a modern twist, approximately 100,000 veterinarians and para-veterinarians will perform door-to-door enumeration throughout India’s villages and urban areas. This initiative will leverage digital tools, as data will be collected and transmitted via mobile devices, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of the data processing.

Scope of Data Collection

The Census aims to gather extensive data across several livestock categories:

• Species Covered: Data will encompass 15 livestock species, including Cattle, Buffalo, Mithun, Yak, Sheep, Goat, Pig, Camel, Horse, Ponies, Mule, Donkey, Dog, Rabbit, and Elephant.

• Poultry Species: Counts will also include various poultry species, such as Fowl, Duck, Turkey, Geese, Quail, Gini Fowl, Ostrich, and Emu.

• Breed Data: The census will document 219 indigenous breeds across 16 species as recognized by the ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR).

Unique Features of This Census

For the first time, the Census will independently document livestock holdings by pastoralists, providing crucial insights into this significant community. Additionally, it will collect information on the gender of the individuals primarily involved in livestock rearing, adding a valuable social dimension to the data collection process.

Significance of the Census

The 21st Livestock Census is poised to provide foundational data that will guide the design and implementation of various programs in the animal husbandry and dairy sectors. With insights into livestock numbers, distribution, and breed diversity, the Census will enable tailored policies and resource allocation, promoting sustainable growth within this essential sector of the Indian economy.

As the initiative unfolds, it promises to enhance the understanding and management of India’s rich livestock heritage, ultimately benefiting farmers, policymakers, and the economy as a whole.