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Raising cattle and buffaloes is a profitable business for farmers and provides income for rural households. However, the initial cost of purchasing and maintaining livestock can be a significant barrier for small-scale farmers. Fortunately, there are several assistance programs available to help farmers overcome this hurdle and succeed in their livestock ventures.
Firstly, the government provides loans and subsidies for the purchase of cows and buffaloes. The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has a Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme (DEDS) that provides financial assistance to farmers for purchasing and rearing dairy animals, including cows and buffaloes. The scheme provides loans up to Rs.10 lakh for the establishment of small dairy units, while subsidies up to 25% of the total cost of the project are available for general category farmers and 33.33% for women and SC/ST entrepreneurs.
Additionally, the government’s Rashtriya Gokul Mission provides financial assistance for the conservation and development of indigenous breeds of cattle in the country. The mission provides grants up to Rs. 20 lakhs to government and non-government organizations, registered farmers, breeders, farmers’ associations, and dairy cooperatives for the establishment of Gokul Grams and to organize semen stations and bull mother farms.
Furthermore, NGOs and non-profits like Heifer International and CARE provide assistance to livestock farmers in communities worldwide. These organizations provide training and support for farmers to become more self-reliant and expand their livestock businesses sustainably. They also provide grants and loans to help farmers purchase their livestock and support the establishment of cooperative societies to pool resources and maximize profits.
In conclusion, with the support of government schemes, NGOs, and non-profits, farmers can overcome the initial cost barrier when purchasing cows and buffaloes and establish viable livestock businesses. With a sufficient number of animals at their disposal, farmers can generate a steady income source that will improve their livelihoods and strengthen the country’s agricultural sector.