A review meeting /workshop on key issues related to Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) of Livestock Sector Reforms, Artificial Insemination (AI), vaccination, and the Bharat Pashudhan Portal was conducted on 17^th April 2026 in Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi, under the chairmanship of Shri Naresh Pal Gangwar, Secretary, DAHD , Government of India, and witnessed active participation from senior officials and dignitaries of Animal Husbandry Departments from all States and Union Territories.

The aim of the meeting/ workshop were to discuss: (i) issues in Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) on Livestock Sector Reforms, (ii) SoPs and other issues related to vaccination, (iii) SoPs and other issues related to Artificial Insemination, and (iv) issues related to NDLM – Bharat Pashudhan Portal. The Chairperson outlined the scheme's objectives under SASCI and informed participants about the criteria to be fulfilled or completed to avail incentives, furthermore, the chairperson advised senior officials to communicate with the concerned authorities for detailed implementation of preconditions of SASCI, ensuring that the proposals are aligned with the State's livestock development plan.

In his opening remarks, Shri Naresh Pal Gangwar, Secretary, DAHD informed that most States/UTs Animal Husbandry Department have begun adopting uniform measures in line with guidelines issued by  DAHD, Government of India. He highlighted that SASCI Livestock Sector Reforms aim to drive incentive-based capital investment through clear operational frameworks. He urged States/UTs to accelerate implementation, coordinate with Finance Departments for timely budget allocation, submit claims on schedule, and ensure funds are directed solely to livestock activities from the start of the financial year. He also stressed Centre-State convergence, timely reporting, use of digital tools for improved service delivery, and regular monitoring of workshop action points.

During the workshop, detailed presentation was made by Ms. Varsha Joshi, Addl. Secretary, DAHD and deliberations were held on the Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) for vaccination and Artificial Insemination (AI), along with other related issues. Furthermore, matters concerning the National Digital Livestock Mission (NDLM) – Bharat Pashudhan Portal were thoroughly addressed, with key emphasis placed on achieving seamless data integration, enabling real-time uploading of vaccination and AI records, and ensuring effective service delivery through a unified digital platform across States and Union Territories. Under RGM, States/UTs were urged to deploy MAITRI workers in every Gram Panchayat and submit proposals, while DAHD will expand Artificial Insemination to non-bovine species and promote IVF in sheep for genetic improvement.

During the review, progress under NLM-EDP was reviewed with directions to submit inputs for the second instalment within the defined timeline. Under LHDCP, States/UTs were asked to expedite Action Plans for NADCP, MVUs, and ASCAD, The meeting also reviewed livestock insurance, fodder planning with Rural Development Departments, influenza preparedness, FMD-free zones, and strengthening district diagnostic laboratories.

The meeting concluded with an interactive question‑and‑answer session, during which officers of DAHD addressed queries raised by States and Union Territories. Participants collectively reaffirmed their commitment to timely implementation of reforms and schemes, strengthening Centre–State coordination, and enhancing service delivery in the animal husbandry and livestock sector.

The workshop was attended also by Shri Rama Shankar Sinha , Additional Secretary (LH), Dr. Naveena. B.Maheswarappa, Animal Husbandry Commissioner, Dr. Muthukumarasamy B., Joint Secretary (NLM), and Shri Jagat Hazarika, Statistical Advisor, DAHD along with Additional Chief Secretaries/Principal Secretaries/Secretaries of Animal Husbandry Department, Directors of Directorate of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services and other Senior officers from all States/UTs, were also present.

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JP

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