The National Livestock Mission (NLM) is one of the key government schemes that focuses on promoting sustainable livestock development, improving rural livelihoods, and boosting India’s agricultural economy.
Launched in 2014 and realigned in 2021-22, this mission is implemented by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
It plays a vital role in improving animal productivity, ensuring better feed and fodder supply, and creating employment opportunities in rural India.
Objectives of the National Livestock Mission
The main aim of the National Livestock Mission is to strengthen the livestock sector and improve the income of farmers and entrepreneurs. Some key objectives include:
- Improving livestock productivity through better breeding programs and genetic improvement.
- Promoting research and innovation in poultry, goat, sheep, and dairy sectors.
- Ensuring animal health and welfare by enhancing disease control and surveillance systems.
- Providing financial and skill support to livestock farmers through training programs.
- Encouraging rural entrepreneurship by helping individuals and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) set up livestock-based enterprises.
These objectives together help in developing a strong, sustainable, and profitable livestock ecosystem across India.
Key Features of the National Livestock Mission
The scheme is designed to meet the different needs of India’s livestock sector through focused programs. Here are the major features:
- Breed Improvement: The mission supports scientific breeding programs to increase milk, meat, and egg production.
- Fodder Development: It helps strengthen the fodder seed supply chain and promotes fodder cultivation on non-arable lands.
- Risk Protection: Livestock insurance is promoted to protect farmers from unexpected animal losses.
- Financial Assistance: The mission provides 50% capital subsidy (up to ₹50 lakh) for setting up livestock units and fodder processing plants.
- Employment Creation: It promotes entrepreneurship in small-scale sectors like poultry, goat farming, and fodder production.
Sub-Missions Under National Livestock Mission
The restructured National Livestock Mission has three sub-missions that focus on specific goals:
- Sub-Mission on Breed Improvement of Livestock and Poultry
Focuses on genetic enhancement, breed conservation, and improving reproductive efficiency. - Sub-Mission on Feed and Fodder Development
Aims to ensure the availability of quality fodder, improve seed processing, and promote innovative feed solutions. - Sub-Mission on Innovation and Extension
Encourages research, training, and technology adoption to improve productivity and market efficiency.
National Livestock Mission Portal (Udyami Mitra)
To make the scheme accessible and transparent, the government launched the NLM Portal – nlm.udyamimitra.in.
Through this online platform, beneficiaries can:
- Register and submit their applications
- Upload required documents online
- Track project and subsidy status
- Get approvals from banks and authorities
The Udyami Mitra portal acts as a one-stop digital platform that connects farmers, entrepreneurs, lenders, and government departments for smooth scheme implementation.
Who Can Apply for the National Livestock Mission?
The scheme benefits a wide range of people and organizations involved in animal husbandry and related sectors, including:
- Individual farmers and livestock owners
- Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
- Startups and entrepreneurs in animal husbandry
- Cooperative societies and state government agencies
Additional Activities Under National Livestock Mission
In recent updates, the government added more initiatives to expand the mission’s reach:
- Support for Horse, Donkey, Mule, and Camel Breeding with up to 50% subsidy.
- Fodder Seed Processing Units and Seed Storage Godowns to enhance supply chains.
- Fodder Cultivation Assistance on degraded and non-forest lands.
- Simplified Livestock Insurance Scheme with a 15% beneficiary premium share.
These activities are designed to make livestock farming more secure, sustainable, and profitable for rural communities.
Conclusion
The National Livestock Mission is a powerful step by the Government of India to transform the livestock sector.
By improving animal productivity, promoting entrepreneurship, and ensuring better income for farmers, this scheme is helping build a self-reliant and sustainable rural economy.
It not only supports livestock farmers but also creates jobs, enhances food security, and strengthens India’s agricultural growth story.
FAQs
What is the National Livestock Mission?
The National Livestock Mission (NLM) is a government scheme that supports livestock development, entrepreneurship, and sustainable rural growth.
Who can apply for NLM benefits?
Farmers, FPOs, SHGs, startups, and cooperative societies engaged in animal husbandry can apply for this scheme.
What is the subsidy available under the scheme?
Beneficiaries can receive up to 50% capital subsidy, with a maximum limit of ₹50 lakh for eligible projects.
How can one apply for the National Livestock Mission?
Applicants can visit the official NLM Portal at nlm.udyamimitra.in to register, upload documents, and track their application.
Which ministry implements the scheme?
The scheme is implemented by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying.