Mini Nandini Yojana: The Mini Nandini Scheme holds great significance for dairy farmers, as it is part of the Uttar Pradesh government’s efforts to bolster the rural economy and enhance the earnings of livestock farmers. This initiative falls under the Nand Baba Dugdh Mission, which strives to encourage the rearing of indigenous cow breeds and facilitate small farmers’ entry into the dairy sector. Through this scheme, the government offers a subsidy of up to 50% of the total project cost for establishing a dairy unit with 10 indigenous cows.

Key Points about the Mini Nandini Scheme

1. The scheme is a scaled-down version of the Nandini Krishak Samriddhi Yojana, focusing on smaller dairy units with 10 cows, including indigenous breeds like Gir, Sahiwal, and Tharparkar to enhance milk production and boost farmers’ incomes.
2. The total cost for a dairy unit with 10 cows is set at Rs 23.60 lakh, with the government providing a 50% subsidy, capped at Rs 11.80 lakh. Beneficiaries contribute 15% of the cost, while the rest can be financed through a bank loan.
3. The subsidy is disbursed in two stages: the first after the dairy infrastructure is in place, and the second following the purchase of cows.

Who is eligible for the scheme?

Farmers and cattle breeders in Uttar Pradesh with a minimum of three years of animal husbandry experience can apply. Cows bought under the scheme must be healthy and in their first or second lactation stage, with mandatory animal insurance and ear tagging.

Expected Outcomes of the Scheme:

1. Protection of indigenous breed cows.
2. Increase in milk production in the state.
3. Rise in self-employment opportunities in rural areas.
4. Assurance of steady income for livestock farmers.
5. Facilitation of youth and women’s involvement in dairy entrepreneurship.

Mini Nandini Scheme High Lights 

  • Total Project Cost: Rs 23.60 Lakh 

  • Government subsidy: Rs 11.80 lakh (50%) 

  • Bank loan: 35%

  • Beneficiary’s Share: 15% 

If a beneficiary does not want to take a loan from the bank, he can invest his share himself. 

Subsidy money will be given in three phases 

  • The government will release the grant of the scheme not all at once but in three phases.
  • 25% – Upon completion of dairy building and infrastructure
  • 12.5% ​​– after purchase of indigenous cows
  • 12.5% ​​– Upon verification of progeny (calves) of at least 10 cows