Mini Nandini Yojana: Good news for farmers. If you aspire to establish a dairy business alongside your farming endeavors, the Mini Nandini Krishak Samriddhi Yojana initiated by the Uttar Pradesh government offers a promising opportunity. Launched under the Nand Baba Milk Mission, the scheme aims to enhance farmers’ earnings and encourage the preservation of native cow species. Eligible farmers can receive a subsidy of up to Rs 11.80 lakh to establish a dairy unit housing 10 cows. This initiative is anticipated to generate more job opportunities in rural regions and substantially elevate milk production.
Key points to note about the scheme
Maximum Rs 11.80 lakh government subsidy
The total cost for a dairy unit equipped with 10 indigenous cows is set at Rs 23.60 lakh. The government will contribute a 50 percent subsidy, capped at Rs 11.80 lakh. Beneficiaries are only required to invest 15 percent of the total amount themselves, while the remaining 35 percent can be secured through a bank loan. This significantly alleviates the financial burden on farmers, facilitating a smooth commencement of their dairy business.
Subsidy distribution in two installments
The subsidy will not be disbursed in one go but split into two installments directly transferred to bank accounts via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). The initial installment will be provided upon the completion of the dairy shed and essential infrastructure, with the second installment following the procurement of cows. This approach ensures the effective utilization of the scheme’s benefits.
Focus on indigenous cow breeds
The scheme exclusively supports indigenous cow breeds like Sahiwal, Gir, and Tharparkar. These high-quality breeds will be sourced from their original breeding habitats or other states to ensure farmers have access to superior breeds. Cows acquired must be in their first or second calving phase and have given birth within the last 45 days. Additionally, insurance coverage and ear tagging will be obligatory for all cows.
Key eligibility requirements
To qualify for the scheme, applicants must possess a minimum of three years’ experience in cow or buffalo rearing, validated by a certificate from the Chief Veterinary Officer. Moreover, farmers must own at least 0.20 acres of land for the dairy unit and 0.80 acres for cultivating green fodder. This land can be personal, ancestral, or obtained through a minimum seven-year agreement, and should not be waterlogged.
Eligibility criteria
Farmers who have previously benefited from schemes like the Kamdhenu Scheme, Mini or Micro Kamdhenu Scheme, Nandini Krishak Samriddhi Yojana, or Chief Minister Swadeshi Gau Samvardhan Yojana are ineligible for this scheme. The government aims to involve as many new farmers as possible in this initiative.
Selection process via e-lottery
The application process has been streamlined, with an upcoming online portal for submissions. In the interim, farmers can apply offline by visiting the office of the Chief Development Officer (CDO) or Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO), or through registered mail. In case of an excess of applications, eligible beneficiaries will be chosen through an e-lottery system.
In summary, the Mini Nandini Krishak Samriddhi Yojana presents a valuable opportunity for farmers seeking to venture into dairy business with minimal investment. Generous government subsidies, accessibility to bank loans, and the promotion of indigenous cow breeds make this scheme a significant stride towards enhancing rural economies and farmers’ livelihoods.