India’s 21st Livestock Census: Comprehensive Data for Policy Insight

Why in the news?

The recently launched 21st Livestock Census by the Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying aims to collect detailed data on livestock and poultry across India. The census will guide policies, support rural employment, and align with sustainable development goals.

India’s 21st Livestock Census: Comprehensive Data for Policy Insight

Overview of the 21st Livestock Census:

  • The 21st Livestock Census, launched by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, aims to provide a comprehensive headcount of domesticated, stray, and poultry animals in India.
  • Conducted every five years since 1919, this census includes detailed data on species, breed, age, sex, and ownership status.
  • The current census will span from October 2024 to February 2025, with approximately 87,000 enumerators visiting households, farms, and institutions to collect data across 30 crore households.

Animals and Birds Included in the Census:

  • Information will be gathered on species like cattle, buffalo, mithun, yak, sheep, goat, pig, camel, horse, ponies, mule, donkey, dog, rabbit, and elephant.
  • The census also includes 219 indigenous animal breeds identified by the ICAR-NBAGR and various poultry species such as fowl, chicken, duck, turkey, quail, and emu.

Importance and New Additions in the Census:

  • The livestock sector, contributing about 30% of the Gross Value Added (GVA) in agriculture and 7% of the total economy, is critical for rural employment and economic stability.
  • This data will aid in formulating policies, estimating GVA, and aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including zero hunger and genetic diversity.
  • New additions include data on pastoral animals, socio-economic information of pastoralists, household income from livestock, and the gender of stray cattle, with fully digital data collection and a comprehensive digital dashboard for monitoring.

About Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR):

  • Apex Body: ICAR is the premier institution overseeing agricultural research and education in India.
  • Coordination: It coordinates research initiatives across various agricultural disciplines.
  • Guidance: ICAR provides guidance to agricultural universities and research institutes.
  • Management: Manages research programs under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARES).
  • Ministry Affiliation: Functions under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
  • Objective: Aims to enhance agricultural productivity, sustainability, and food security in the country.

Associated Article:

https://universalinstitutions.com/union-minister-launches-21st-livestock-census-operation/