Punjab’s dairy sector has received a major boost as the state government announced ₹59 lakh in financial assistance for livestock and dairy farmers. This targeted support, introduced under the Bhagwant Mann government scheme, focuses on improving veterinary infrastructure and strengthening rural dairy-based livelihoods. The aid—₹17 lakh for Rajpura and ₹42 lakh for Taragarh—will upgrade veterinary hospitals and enhance services for thousands of farmers across these regions, reaffirming the government’s commitment to dairy development under the Bhagwant Mann government scheme.
This year, the Punjab government has already distributed ₹3 crore to 204 dairy farmers for setting up dairy units with 2–20 animals. Alongside this, 9,150 unemployed youths have received structured dairy training to help them build sustainable careers in the sector. Through 47 state and district-level awareness camps, livestock farmers were educated about insurance benefits, claim procedures and animal health management—strengthening trust in the Bhagwant Mann government scheme.
Food and Civil Supplies Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak highlighted ongoing preparations for the wheat procurement season, assuring smooth operations for more than 8 lakh farmers. Hoshiarpur alone is expected to contribute more than 3.14 lakh metric tonnes, with substantial contributions from Jalandhar, Kapurthala and Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar. He emphasised that strict action would be taken against any negligence during procurement.
A landmark initiative under the Bhagwant Mann government scheme is the ₹135 crore dairy expansion project in the Majha region. This project will enhance production of sterilised flavoured milk, lassi and dahi, reinforcing Punjab’s position as a leader in high-quality dairy products. The Animal Husbandry Department also confirmed that 30,000 animals have been insured this financial year, and ₹7 crore has been released to farmers as compensation for animal losses.
Punjab’s veterinary ecosystem is also being modernised through Mobile Veterinary Units, funded 100% by the Central Government. These units provide doorstep diagnosis, vaccination, treatment and minor surgical services, ensuring timely healthcare for livestock in remote villages.
Verka, Punjab’s iconic dairy brand, is expanding its footprint on e-commerce platforms. With new branding initiatives, including celebrity associations and its mascot ‘Veera’, the cooperative aims to reach global consumers. New products like rabri and kaju-badam milk are also being introduced to meet evolving tastes.
Farmers across the state have welcomed the initiative, calling it a timely step for improving animal health and farm income. With new investments, including a ₹138 crore cattle feed plant by Dutch firm De Heus in Rajpura, the Bhagwant Mann government scheme is driving rural prosperity and expanding Punjab’s dairy potential.
FAQs
Q1: What is the purpose of the Bhagwant Mann government scheme for dairy farmers?
The scheme aims to support dairy farmers through financial aid, veterinary upgrades and enhanced training programs.
Q2: How much assistance has been announced under the Bhagwant Mann government scheme?
A total of ₹59 lakh has been allocated for farmers in Hoshiarpur, Rajpura and Taragarh.
Q3: What new dairy initiatives are being launched in Punjab?
A ₹135 crore project will expand production of flavoured milk, lassi and dahi.
Q4: How will veterinary services improve for livestock farmers?
Mobile Veterinary Units will offer doorstep treatment, diagnosis and vaccination services.
