Strengthening livestock based livelihoods: Govt's big push for Animal Husbandry

In Himachal Pradesh, livestock has always held a special place in rural life and not only as a source of livelihood but also as a symbol of faith and sustenance.

- DINESH AGARWAL

Recognizing the deep connection between rural households and their livestock, the state government during its last two and a half years has taken several progressive steps to promote animal husbandry as a viable and dignified source of income. A landmark initiative by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has been the fulfillment of a key election promise, the introduction of Minimum Support Price (MSP) for cow and buffalo milk. Himachal Pradesh has become the first state in the country to offer MSP on milk, setting a powerful example in support of dairy farmers. At present, the government procures 2.25 la