Dehradun: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has called on cattle farmers, dairy entrepreneurs, and fish farmers to move beyond traditional selling and focus on branding their products for global markets.
He highlighted that demand for Uttarakhand’s Badri cow ghee, curd, and other dairy products is rising internationally. With improved quality, smart packaging, and effective marketing, mountain-based products can achieve strong global recognition.
Animal Husbandry as a Startup and Self-Employment Model
Speaking at a dialogue program organized by the Animal Husbandry, Fisheries, and Dairy Department at ITI Niranjanpur, Dehradun, the Chief Minister said animal husbandry is now emerging as a modern self-employment and startup opportunity, not just a traditional livelihood.He emphasized that rural prosperity is key to national development, aligning with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and noted that people can now build successful businesses in villages without migrating to cities.
Launch of Gokul Embryo Transfer Scheme
During the event, the Chief Minister launched the “Chief Minister Gokul Embryo Transfer Scheme” and flagged off a refrigerated vehicle under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana.
The state government aims to promote modern technology, innovation, and research in livestock, dairy, and fisheries sectors to generate local employment opportunities for youth.
Success Stories from Farmers and Entrepreneurs
Several beneficiaries shared inspiring progress stories during the program:
- A trout fish farmer from Jaunpur received ₹9.75 lakh insurance support after disaster losses under the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana
- An FPO in Doiwala reported ₹10 crore annual turnover, benefiting 386 members through agricultural packaging and supply
- A dairy entrepreneur from Haridwar increased milk production from 40 liters to 300 liters per day, earning around ₹1.15 lakh monthly and providing jobs to eight people
GI Tag Boost for Badri Cow Ghee
The Chief Minister noted that Badri cow ghee has received India’s first GI tag, which will strengthen its identity and boost its presence in international markets.
He also highlighted various central and state schemes supporting the sector, including the National Gokul Mission, National Livestock Mission, PM Matsya Sampada Yojana, and Kisan Credit Card scheme.
Under the state’s livestock mission, eligible beneficiaries are receiving up to 90% subsidy, and more than 11,500 people have become self-employed in animal husbandry-related activities over the past four years.
Strong Push for Rural Employment and Fisheries Growth
Animal Husbandry Minister Saurabh Bahuguna stated that the government is ensuring local employment generation in hill regions.
He added that products from livestock farming are now being directly supplied to ITBP with payments within 48 hours. So far, farmers have received over ₹13 crore in payments.
He also announced the development of a ₹70 crore aqua park in Sitarganj, expected to significantly boost fisheries production and employment.
“Mountains’ Water and Youth for the Mountains”
The state government reiterated its vision of turning Uttarakhand into a hub of rural entrepreneurship, modern farming, and global agri-branding, ensuring that the state’s natural resources and youth contribute directly to local development.
