Mysuru: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah underscored the pivotal role of the state’s livestock and dairy industry in fostering economic growth. Speaking at the inauguration of a state-of-the-art veterinary clinic and the launch of comprehensive training programs for animal handlers, the Chief Minister outlined his vision for the future of this vital sector.
Addressing a gathering of agricultural stakeholders and officials from the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medical Services, Siddaramaiah emphasized the symbiotic relationship between the prosperity of cattle and the nation’s economic advancement. The inauguration of the veterinary clinic marked a significant step in bolstering animal healthcare and welfare in the state.
Milk production, he noted, plays a central role in Karnataka’s cooperative sector, and initiatives like milk unions were established to protect farmers and producers from exploitation. Siddaramaiah recalled his tenure as Animal Husbandry Minister when he championed efforts to empower these unions, thereby reducing the monopolistic influence of officials within organizations like the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) and various dairies.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the immense potential for expanding milk production and marketing within the state. When he first assumed office, Karnataka produced a modest 1 lakh 30 thousand liters of milk, with KMF alone procuring 80 lakh liters. The remaining 50 lakh liters were distributed to schoolchildren, contributing to their health and educational outcomes. Siddaramaiah further explained that he had implemented a program offering farmers an incentive of Rs 5 per liter, directly impacting their livelihoods.
Karnataka boasts an impressive population of 1 crore 16 lakh cattle and 1 crore 72 lakh goats and sheep, a testament to the state’s commitment to animal protection and breed development. The Anugrah Yojana, a project introduced during Siddaramaiah’s tenure, provides financial relief of 10,000 rupees for every 5,000 cows and buffaloes that succumbed to blue tongue disease.
In terms of milk production, Karnataka currently ranks second in the country, just behind Gujarat. Siddaramaiah reiterated that safeguarding cattle is not only beneficial for farmers but also for the growth of other agricultural activities such as sericulture.
Reflecting on his political journey from Animal Husbandry Minister to Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah expressed profound gratitude to the voters who had elected him nine times out of 14 election contests, spanning Chamundeshwari, Varuna, and Badami constituencies. He emphasized the essence of democracy, recognizing the people as its true custodians.
Siddaramaiah commended the Animal Husbandry Department for successfully preserving and enhancing cattle, buffalo, sheep, and goat breeds. He also praised the valuable work of Asha workers in the health department, highlighting their role as bridges connecting pastoralists, farmers, and the government.
The Chief Minister reiterated his commitment to delivering government programs directly to the doorsteps of farmers, pastoralists, and those in the sheep and poultry sectors. He assured unwavering support for the interests of the nation’s farmers.
Touching on the contentious issue of water sharing, Siddaramaiah referred to the water levels of the KRS dam, casting doubt on Tamil Nadu’s ability to release water independently.
He also outlined several government achievements, including the implementation of four out of five guaranteed schemes, with 65 crore women benefiting from the Shakti Yojana. The success of the Grihajyoti program, with zero bills, and the funding challenges of the Annabhagya Yojana due to central government rice shortages were also mentioned. These schemes have positively impacted the lives of 4.48 crore individuals, including those covered by the Griha Jyothi Yojana.
Animal Husbandry Minister K. Venkatesh shed light on the appointment of women with qualifications ranging from 8th to 10th standards as animal sakhiyas in 5942 village panchayats. These individuals receive comprehensive training, equipping them with essential knowledge in animal husbandry, village outreach, primary treatment, and engagement with animal rearers.
Additionally, Venkatesh highlighted ongoing vaccination efforts against foot and mouth disease, which have been conducted for the fourth time. To alleviate the financial burden on farmers, the government has authorized injections to induce the birth of female fetuses in animals. Subsidies will cover a significant portion of the cost, with farmers contributing only 250 rupees out of the total 650 rupees. Furthermore, a milk price hike of Rs. 3 per liter, coupled with a Rs. 5 subsidy, was introduced to support dairy farmers. Siddaramaiah announced the relaunch of the animal welfare scheme in the near future.
The program also featured the symbolic distribution of appointment letters to three of the 250 Junior Veterinary Inspectors recently recruited.