Patna: Bihar has recorded remarkable growth in milk, egg, and meat production, surpassing the national average in annual growth rates for these animal products. According to the latest data released by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India, egg production in Bihar increased by a historic 10 percent, while milk and meat production also grew at rates exceeding 4 percent.
Egg Production Leads the Way
Bihar has emerged as the top-ranking state in terms of annual growth rate for egg production, registering a significant 9.99 percent increase in 2024-25 compared to the national average of 4.44 percent. This performance underscores the state’s strong position in the poultry sector and its increasing contribution to national egg production.
Milk and Meat Production on the Rise
The state also performed well in milk and meat production:
- Milk production: Annual growth of 4.24 percent, ranking sixth nationally, surpassing the national average of 3.58 percent.
- Meat production: Annual growth of 4.03 percent, ranking ninth nationally, above the national average of 2.46 percent.
Per capita availability of these products has also improved: milk increased from 277 grams per day to 285 grams per day, eggs from 27 grams to 29 grams per year, and meat from 3.19 kilograms to 3.27 kilograms per year in 2024-25.
Bihar Advances in Fish Production
Bihar has made notable progress in fish production as well. Dr. N. Vijayalakshmi, Additional Chief Secretary of the Animal and Fisheries Resources Department, stated that the state has become self-sufficient in fish production through various departmental schemes.
In 2013-14, Bihar was ranked ninth nationally in fish production.
By 2023-24, the state improved to fourth place, reflecting consistent growth and investment in the fisheries sector.
Government Initiatives Driving Growth
The growth in milk, eggs, meat, and fish is attributed to focused schemes and initiatives by the Animal and Fisheries Resources Department. The department’s programs have strengthened animal husbandry, dairy farming, poultry, and fisheries, supporting both production growth and per capita availability of nutritious animal products in Bihar.
