The livestock sector is the unsung hero behind India’s thriving agricultural landscape, clocking an impressive average growth of 12.77 percent every year, according to the latest report. This momentum is reshaping the nation’s economic narrative.
In a country where over 70 percent of the population depends on agriculture, livestock provides a critical buffer. While crop yields fluctuate with weather, animal husbandry delivers reliable returns. Milk alone accounts for a significant chunk of rural GDP.
Breaking down the numbers, dairy leads with record productions, followed by booming poultry and goat rearing. Fisheries have also surged inland, thanks to pond culture and tech interventions. These gains are visible in market yards buzzing with activity.
What fuels this rise? Strategic investments in infrastructure, from cold chains to processing units, have reduced wastage. Cooperatives like Amul exemplify success, linking farmers directly to consumers. Digital tools now help track animal health and market prices in real-time.
Women empowerment is another highlight. Self-help groups managing dairy units have lifted families out of poverty. Youth are entering with startups in organic meat and exotic breeds, blending tradition with innovation.
Yet, hurdles like rising feed costs and water scarcity loom large. Experts call for more R&D in nutrition and breeding. International collaborations could unlock premium markets.
As India eyes a $5 trillion economy, livestock’s 12.77 percent trajectory promises inclusive growth. It’s not just about numbers—it’s about nourishing a billion dreams, one animal at a time.
