Patna: The Bihar government has unveiled a new initiative to promote rural employment and entrepreneurship through animal husbandry, with the launch of the Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP) under the National Livestock Mission (NLM).
The scheme, rolled out by the state’s Animal and Fisheries Resources Department, is designed to support ventures in goat and sheep rearing, pig and poultry farming, and the fodder sector. Eligible participants — including individuals, self-help groups (SHGs), farmer producer organisations (FPOs), cooperatives, and Section 8 companies — can receive a capital subsidy of up to 50 per cent.
Officials said the mission is expected to stimulate rural entrepreneurship, improve livestock productivity, and reduce input costs for farmers. In addition to financial support, the programme will offer skill-based training, promote modern farming technologies, and enhance capacity-building among both livestock farmers and government staff.
The initiative also focuses on improving production of meat, eggs, goat milk, wool, and fodder through breed upgrades and support for fodder seed supply chains. Plans include setting up fodder processing units and introducing livestock insurance to manage risks.
Applied research in poultry, small ruminants, and fodder production will be prioritised to ensure sustainable growth, with the broader goal of making animal husbandry a viable and income-generating enterprise in Bihar’s rural economy.
Further information is available on nlm.udyamimitra.in and dahd.nic.in.
