The Animal Husbandry Statistics Division under the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) today organized an orientation workshop for the newly engaged National Level Monitors (NLM) to empower the effectiveness of independent monitoring of key departmental programs at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. The workshop aimed to equip the NLMs with a comprehensive understanding of the programs of the DAHD and their objectives, enabling them to play a pivotal role in ensuring transparency, accountability and efficient implementation.

Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Smt. Alka Upadhyay inaugurated the workshop, who emphasized the significance of independent monitoring in achieving the government's vision of empowering livestock farmers. "The NLMs are the eyes and ears of the department on the ground, and their role in ensuring that the benefits of our programs reach the intended beneficiaries is paramount," said Smt. Alka Upadhyay. The workshop was witnessed by Additional Secretary, DAHD, Smt. Varsha Joshi, Joint Secretary, DAHD, Dr. O P Choudhary, Joint Secretary, DAHD, Smt. Sarita Chauhan and Advisor (Statistics), DAHD Shri Jagat Hazarika.

The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying has a robust monitoring and evaluation framework in place, encompassing regular progress reports, a dedicated management information system, and periodic review meetings. Despite these comprehensive efforts, a persistent need for independent, on-ground oversight emerged. Challenges such as ensuring uniform implementation across states and providing timely technical support to implementing agencies necessitated a more granular approach. Recognizing these gaps, the Department established the National Level Monitor scheme to introduce an unbiased/transparent and objective monitoring system that would offer direct, regular assessment of program performance at the state level.

The workshop covered detailed presentations on four key programs: Rashtriya Gokul Mission, National Livestock Mission, Livestock Health & Disease Control Program, and National Program for Dairy Development. Eminent officials from the department provided in-depth insights into the programs' goals, implementation strategies, and challenges.

Smt. Varsha Joshi provided a comprehensive overview of the Rashtriya Gokul Mission and the National Program for Dairy Development. Her presentation delved into the operational aspects, administrative structure, and technological advancements of these missions. She also identified key areas requiring close monitoring by National Level Monitors during their field visits.

 

Dr. O.P. Choudhary presented the National Livestock Mission, outlining its expanded scope, which now includes entrepreneurship development, research and innovation, livestock insurance, and the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF). Dr. Sujit Dutta and Dr. Lipi Sairiwal offered additional insights into the mission's functioning.

Smt. Sarita Chauhan presented the Livestock Health & Disease Control Program (LH&DCP), focusing on key initiatives such as the National Animal Disease Control Program (NADCP), Mobile Veterinary Units (MVUs), and Assistance to States/UTs for Control of Animal Disease (ASCAD). Her presentation detailed the administrative framework and operational mechanisms of these programs.

Deputy Director General, NIC, Shri Prashant Mittal gave a live presentation of the application being developed by NIC for the National Level Monitors. The purpose of this application is to capture the information from the field, directly into the mobile application, reducing the time taken for reporting and improving process efficiency.

Under the NLM Scheme, the monitors, comprising a distinguished group of retired servicemen, will play a crucial role in assessing the progress of these programs, identifying gaps and bottlenecks, and suggesting improvements. Their feedback will be instrumental in enhancing the department's program delivery and ensuring that public funds are utilized optimally.

The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying remains committed to fostering the development of the livestock sector through transparent and accountable mechanisms. The successful orientation workshop marks a significant step towards achieving these goals, with the NLM initiative set to play a crucial role in the unbiased monitoring of DAHD's programs.

The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks by Shri V.P. Singh, Director of the Animal Husbandry Statistics Division at the DAHD. He expressed gratitude to all dignitaries and stakeholders for their presence and concluded on a hopeful note for a successful monitoring operation by the NLMs.

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