Patna: Bihar has achieved a major breakthrough in strengthening its dairy sector, with the establishment of approximately 35,000 new dairy units this year.
This expansion comes through two key schemes implemented by the Animal and Fisheries Resources Department.
Of the total, 33,889 dairy units were set up under the Samagra Gavya Vikas Yojana, while 1,091 units were created under the Desi Gaupalan Yojana. Officials say this rapid expansion will significantly accelerate the growth of the dairy industry in the state.
Bihar Dairy sector Growth: Massive Growth Under Government Schemes
- The Samagra Gavya Vikas Yojana, launched in 2014-15, initially recorded 4,080 dairy units. In a decade, the number has surged nearly nine-fold to 33,889 units in 2024-25. Recognizing the success, the state government approved a budget of ₹48.48 crore for the scheme in the financial year 2024-25.
- The Desi Gaupalan Yojana, introduced in 2023-24, also shows notable progress. From 923 units last year, it has expanded to 1,091 units in 2024-25, reflecting growing interest among cattle rearers.
Loan-Cum-Grant Support Boosts Farmer Participation
Both schemes offer loan-cum-grant facilities to set up dairy units housing two to four high-breed milch cattle, calves, or heifers. Subsidy benefits include –
- 75% subsidy for members of Extremely Backward Classes, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes
- 50% subsidy for other beneficiaries
These financial incentives have significantly increased farmer participation, helping enhance dairy infrastructure across rural Bihar.
Milk Production Surges by More Than 60%
With sustained government intervention and rising dairy unit establishment, Bihar’s milk production has seen a remarkable jump of over 60%.
2004-05: 4,743 thousand metric tonnes
2023-24: 12,852.99 thousand metric tonnes
Officials attribute this sharp rise to increased cattle productivity, improved dairy infrastructure, and enhanced access to government subsidies and support.
Future Outlook
The rapid expansion of dairy units is expected to not only boost milk availability and farmer income, but also strengthen the state’s position as a rising dairy hub in eastern India. The government plans to continue scaling up both dairy schemes to meet increasing demand and encourage rural entrepreneurship.
Read also: Bihar Records Historic Growth in Milk, Egg, and Meat Production, Surpasses National Average
