Srinagar May 14: In October 2022, John Mohammad, a 35-year-old from Pulwama, embarked on a journey into dairy farming by establishing five units with 25 cows. Supported by a government subsidy of Rs 1.75 lakh per unit, he has since dedicated himself to tending his dairy operation.
Producing 1.5 quintal of milk daily and selling at Rs 35/litre, he said his venture yields a commendable daily income of over Rs 50,00, amounting to Rs 1,50,000 per month. “With monthly expenses totaling Rs 1,10,000, we manage to save Rs 40,000,” he added.
Mohammad Rafiq, hailing from Sopore, initiated his dairy farm in September 2021 after extensive research revealed the sector’s immense potential. Leveraging the grass abundance from nearby apple orchards, his three units, each housing five cows, produce 1.75 quintal litres of milk daily. “Despite significant expenses, including feeding costs, we earn approximately Rs 1.3 lakh monthly,” he shared.
Under the IDDC, male beneficiaries receive a subsidy of Rs 1.75 lakh, while females and members of Scheduled Castes and Tribes receive Rs 2 lakh for setting up five cow dairy farms. Furthermore, the scheme offers support beyond financial assistance, providing essential equipment such as milking machines and bulk milk cooling units at subsidized rates.
In addition to the IDDC, the government is implementing various initiatives aimed at enhancing dairy production, including genetic upgradation of cattle, fodder development, and procurement and processing of milk. These interventions not only bolster production but also ensure the sector’s sustainability and resilience against potential risks.
As Kashmiri youth continue to embrace dairy farming as a viable livelihood option, their endeavours not only contribute to their own prosperity but also to the overall socio-economic development of the region.
