LAHORE: The Punjab government has approved a Rs. 500 million scheme to supply livestock producers with 5,000 premium male goats and rams, marking a significant milestone in the development of the livestock and dairy industries.
Launched under the directive of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, it aims to increase meat production throughout the province.
The Livestock and Dairy Development Department reports that interested farmers can immediately apply for the program, with a deadline of April 30. It is anticipated that the program will increase the province’s total meat production by providing animals with higher genetic potential.
Under this scheme, 30% of the cost will come from farmers, with the remaining 70% coming from the government. The male goats and rams that breeders receive under this program are required to retain them for breeding for a minimum of two years.
The eligibility criteria for farmers include:
- Must own a herd of 20 to 40 female animals
- Must be a registered livestock farmer on the 9211 system
- Must be a resident of the relevant district
Applications must be delivered to the appropriate desks at the Deputy Directors of Livestock’s offices in the relevant tehsils. The Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) will oversee the e-balloting process used to choose the beneficiaries.
The initiative will be introduced in six districts during the initial phase, including Muzaffargarh, Layyah, Rajanpur, Dera Ghazi Khan Division: D.G. Khan, Sargodha Division: Bhakkar, and Khushab
To lower animal mortality and increase output, farmers in these areas will also get support services like free vaccines, training in animal care, breeding, feeding techniques, and disease prevention.
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