The Odisha Cabinet has approved the implementation of the sub-scheme “Small Animal Development” under the broader “Prani Sampad Samruddhi Yojana (PSSY)” managed by the Fisheries and Animal Resources Development (ARD) Department.
This initiative follows the earlier approval of the “Poultry Development” sub-scheme and aims to enhance livestock farming, particularly in goats, sheep, and pigs, to support rural economies and food security.
The cabinet-approved sub-scheme will run for four years, from the financial year 2025-26 to 2028-29, with a total budget allocation of Rs. 294.36 crore. It is designed to benefit 23,735 farmers, including members of Women’s Self-Help Groups (WSHGs), while generating an additional annual meat production of approximately 12.25 thousand metric tons (TMT). This boost is expected to create sustainable income opportunities for rural households and contribute to the state’s agricultural growth.
The scheme includes four key components tailored to different farming scales and needs:
1. Goat/Sheep Farming through WSHG or Individual Mode (30+2 Capacity): With a budget of Rs. 63.29 crore, this component will support 11,525 farmers by promoting group-based or individual rearing of goats and sheep, focusing on larger units to maximise output.
2. Small-Scale Goat/Sheep Farming in Individual Mode (10+1 Capacity): Allocated Rs. 67.29 crore, this targets 10,285 individual farmers, enabling smaller operations that are easier to manage for beginners or smallholders.
3. Semi-Commercial Pig Farming in Individual Mode (10+1 Capacity): Rs. 34.79 crore has been earmarked for this, benefiting 1,425 farmers and emphasising pig rearing as a viable commercial venture.
4. Provision for Committed Back-Ended Subsidy: An additional Rs. 28.99 crore is set aside to fulfil ongoing commitments, including subsidies for previously issued go-ahead and extra targets, ensuring smooth continuity.
By prioritising small animal development, the PSSY scheme aligns with the state’s efforts to diversify agricultural practices and meet rising consumer demands. The initiative is part of a larger strategy to strengthen the livestock sector, which plays a crucial role in Odisha’s rural economy.
