Dairy Development in Chhattisgarh to Boost Rural Economy and Farmers’ Income – CM Vishnudev Sai

State Government Strengthens Animal Husbandry as the Backbone of Rural Economy

Concrete Steps Taken to Double Farmers’ Income

Pilot Project Developed Under NDDB’s Guidance to Propel Dairy Industry Forward

Raipur : Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai emphasized that the Chhattisgarh government is taking significant steps to strengthen the dairy industry, modeled on the White Revolution, to double the income of farmers and livestock rearers. Speaking at a review meeting of the Animal Husbandry Department held at Mahanadi Bhavan, he stated that a pilot project has been developed with the support of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) to make milk production a profitable venture and achieve self-sufficiency in dairy production.

Following an agreement between the state government and NDDB in December 2024, rapid efforts are underway to boost milk production in Chhattisgarh. The Chief Minister highlighted that a majority of the state’s population is engaged in agriculture and also relies on animal husbandry for additional income. To ensure the effective implementation of the pilot project, the state government is investing approximately ₹5 crore. The initiative currently includes six districts, with plans for expansion across the state upon successful implementation.

Strengthening the Rural Economy and Enhancing Nutrition

CM Sai stated that dairy industry development will accelerate the rural economy and create new employment opportunities for youth. Additionally, it will contribute to improving nutritional levels across the state, positively impacting the health of women and children. He directed officials to formulate a concrete action plan to increase milk production, enhance per capita milk availability, and efficiently utilize surplus milk. He also emphasized the need to conduct awareness campaigns to encourage farmers and livestock rearers to adopt modern dairy farming techniques to boost their earnings.

During the meeting, NDDB Chairman Shri Meenesh Shah shared that Chhattisgarh currently produces 5.8 million kilograms of milk daily. After an in-depth study of the Chhattisgarh State Dairy Federation’s operations, a comprehensive plan has been developed to enhance dairy production and marketing. He further mentioned that cooperative societies will be equipped with modern technology and machinery to ensure quality milk testing and prompt payments to dairy farmers. Additionally, the establishment of biogas and bio-fertilizer plants will generate alternative income sources for livestock owners while promoting environmental sustainability.

Chhattisgarh’s Vision for Dairy Self-Sufficiency

CM Sai emphasized that the successful implementation of the pilot project will be a crucial step toward making Chhattisgarh self-sufficient in dairy production. He discussed long-term plans for dairy development, livestock productivity enhancement, breeding programs, and animal nutrition.

A Call to Prosperity through Animal Husbandry

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the economic empowerment of farmers and livestock rearers, CM Sai stressed the importance of leveraging modern technology and scientific methods to elevate milk production to new heights. He reiterated the government’s firm resolve to strengthen dairy production and fortify the rural economy.

The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Shri Amitabh Jain, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Shri Subodh Singh, Agriculture Production Commissioner Smt. Shehla Nigar, Director of Animal Husbandry Shri Remigius Ekka, and other senior officials.