Gujarat Expands Tribal Women's Dairy Livelihood Scheme for 2026-27

Gandhinagar, October 27: Gujarat's dairy support programme for tribal women has delivered Rs 162.28 crore in assistance to more than 29,500 beneficiaries over the past three years. The Integrated Dairy Development Scheme, run by the state government, is helping women build sustainable income through dairy farming.

The information was published in an official statement on Tuesday.

Fresh Funding Commitment

For 2026-27, the Tribal Development Department has allocated Rs 65 crore to support 11,206 women. Each beneficiary will receive Rs 58,000.

The scheme, which started in 2007-08, has so far provided more than 1.96 lakh dairy animals to tribal women across the state.

Trends in Beneficiary Numbers

In 2023-24, the scheme supported 6,860 women with Rs 30.87 crore. The following year saw 13,616 beneficiaries receive Rs 78.97 crore. In 2025-26, 9,042 women were supported with Rs 52.44 crore.

Understanding the Support Package

The cost of one animal unit is fixed at Rs 90,000. It includes the animal's purchase price, insurance, transport, fodder, veterinary treatment and specialised vocational training.

The financing model combines a Rs 29,000 loan, a Rs 29,000 central government subsidy and a Rs 29,000 state government grant. Beneficiaries are expected to contribute Rs 3,000.

Eligibility, Districts and Process

Eligible tribal women can apply online through the Tribal Development Office in their area. The scheme is meant for women from tribal families living below the poverty line whose scores range from zero to 20. It is being implemented across 14 tribal districts in Gujarat.

Support and Repayment Linkage

Beneficiaries can receive two dairy animals through the subsidy and loan framework. They are also trained in scientific animal husbandry and day-to-day animal care. Regular milk supply to local dairy cooperatives is a key focus.

The second animal is tied to loan repayment performance. Women who repay more than 60 per cent of their loan on schedule, using income from the first animal, become eligible for a second dairy animal.

Goals for Rural Households

The scheme seeks to increase milk production and household income. By promoting dairy farming close to home, it also aims to give tribal families a more reliable source of livelihood and reduce distress migration in search of work.

The programme is being carried out under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel's leadership, while Tribal Development Minister Naresh Patel oversees the department's initiatives.