Sensitization Meeting Sets Stage for 21st Livestock Census in Animal Husbandry Sector

The Secretary of the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Alka Upadhyaya, chaired a Sensitization Meeting today to prepare for the upcoming 21st Livestock Census. Senior officers from States/Union Territories (UTs) and members of the Technical Committee convened to discuss various aspects related to the census.

Objectives of the Meeting

The meeting, convened specifically for the 21st Livestock Census, aimed at:

• Survey Schedule Discussion: Deliberating upon the survey schedule prepared for the forthcoming Livestock Census.

• Assessment of Preparedness: Evaluating the preparedness of States/UTs and the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying for the upcoming census.

Breed-Wise Data Collection and Utilization

One significant aspect highlighted in the meeting was the collection of breed-wise data of animals. ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR) will play a crucial role in presenting the statewide latest breed list for various species. Additionally, they will elucidate techniques for breed identification in the field.

Importance of Livestock Census

Livestock Census serves as the backbone for policy formulation and program implementation in the Animal Husbandry Sector. Conducted every five years since 1919 by the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India, it provides essential statistics for decision-making.

21st Livestock Census: What to Expect?

Scheduled for 2024, the 21st Livestock Census will witness participation from States/UTs during September to December. Leveraging mobile technology, data collection will be streamlined and facilitated online.

Enumeration will cover all villages and urban wards, encompassing various species of animals (cattle, buffalo, Mithun, yak, sheep, goat, pig, horse, pony, mule, donkey, camel, dog, rabbit and elephant), poultry birds (fowl, duck and other poultry birds), along with detailed breed-wise information including age and sex.