Goat Rearing Becomes a Pillar of Economic Empowerment

Farmers Take a Step Towards Self-Reliance through Goat Farming
Innovation through Artificial Insemination with African Boer Breed

Raipur | In a major step towards strengthening the rural economy and boosting the income of small and marginal farmers, the administration has introduced an innovative initiative—artificial insemination using the African Boer goat breed. Soon, goats of this breed, known to be three to four times heavier than the local varieties, will be seen in the region. This initiative offers a powerful means of supplemental income to rural households.

Goat farming is considered an ideal “ATM” for economically weaker and small farmers—it is easy to manage and provides quick cash returns when needed. While the local goat breeds weigh around 20 to 25 kilograms, the African Boer breed, introduced through artificial insemination, can weigh up to 80 to 100 kilograms.

Administrative Innovation to Boost Rural Incomes

Acting on the directive of the Surguja Collector, the Animal Husbandry Department has procured 7,800 semen doses, including for Indian breeds like Jamunapari, Sirohi, and Barbari, as well as— for the first time—semen of the African Boer breed. These have been sourced through the Uttarakhand Livestock Development Board in Rishikesh, with financial support from the District Animal Patient Welfare Committee.

Senior veterinary officer Dr. C.K. Mishra explained that this is the first time Boer goat semen has been made available in Surguja. The breed is distinguished by its white body with a brown neck and horns. Due to its large size, goat farming using this breed promises greater returns for rural communities.

Expansion Across All Blocks in Surguja

Chhattisgarh began its artificial insemination program in goats in the districts of Surajpur and Surguja. Encouraged by the success of this innovation, the program is now being extended to every development block in Surguja. This will enable farmers to rear better breeds and significantly improve their incomes, leading to stronger economic stability.

Goat Farming: A Step Toward Self-Reliance

This initiative is not just about supplementary income—it is a move towards making goat farmers self-reliant. Thanks to the combined efforts of the administration and the Animal Husbandry Department, goat farming is evolving from a means of livelihood to a gateway to prosperity.