Submit Report for Pilot Project to Reduce Nomadic Movement of Shepherds: Animal Husbandry Minister Pankaja Munde

Mumbai, June 2026:Animal Husbandry Minister Pankaja Munde has directed officials to compile comprehensive data on migratory shepherd communities and submit a study report for implementing a pilot semi-intensive sheep-rearing project aimed at reducing their frequent movement from one place to another.

The directive was issued during a review meeting held at Mantralaya under the chairmanship of Minister Munde to discuss solutions to the long-standing issues of migration and displacement faced by shepherds across Maharashtra.

The meeting was attended by Agriculture Minister Datta Bharane, MLA Pratap Adsad, Secretary of the Animal Husbandry Department Dr. Ramaswamy N., Managing Director of the Punyashlok Ahilyabai Maharashtra Sheep Development Corporation Dr. Sheetalkumar Mukane, and Santosh Mahatme, President of the Amravati Shepherd Dhangar Development Forum, among others.

Speaking at the meeting, Minister Munde said that a large number of shepherds in Maharashtra migrate from one region to another in search of grazing land and livelihood opportunities related to sheep farming. This constant movement creates numerous challenges in accessing education, healthcare, and social and economic development opportunities.

She pointed out that the lack of timely medical facilities during migration often leads to serious hardships and, in some cases, even loss of life. To find a long-term solution to these issues, she instructed officials to prepare a detailed study report. Based on the findings of the report, the government will consider further measures to promote semi-intensive sheep and goat farming.

Minister Munde also noted that the state government is currently implementing the Raje Holkar Mahamesh Yojana, which provides individual benefits to shepherds engaged in sheep farming. She suggested that extending the scheme collectively through shepherd self-help groups or cooperative societies could help create essential infrastructure at a fixed location.

According to her, such an approach would reduce the need for repeated migration and contribute significantly to the educational, social, and economic advancement of shepherd communities. Establishing permanent facilities and support systems would enable families to access government services more effectively while improving their overall quality of life.

Agriculture Minister Datta Bharane emphasized the importance of the issue, stating that the welfare and progress of shepherd communities is a matter of great significance. He said the challenges faced by migratory shepherds require urgent attention and practical solutions.

Considering the seriousness of the situation, Bharane urged officials to take immediate steps toward preparing and implementing suitable measures that would help improve the living conditions and livelihoods of shepherd families across the state.

The proposed initiative is expected to provide a sustainable framework for sheep farming, reduce migration-related hardships, and create better opportunities for education, healthcare, and economic stability for thousands of shepherd families in Maharashtra.