Odisha Cabinet Approves Small Animal Development Scheme Under PSSY
₹294.36 crore initiative to benefit 23,735 farmers and boost meat production
Bhubaneswar : In a strategic move to enhance livestock development and meet the rising demand for meat products, the Odisha State Cabinet approved the rollout of the “Small Animal Development” sub-scheme under the Prani Sampad Samruddhi Yojana (PSSY). The initiative, spearheaded by the Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department, aims to strengthen rural livelihoods through small livestock farming.
The scheme will be implemented over four years, from 2025-26 to 2028-29, with a total budget allocation of ₹294.36 crore. It is expected to benefit 23,735 farmers, including a significant number of members from women’s self-help groups (WSHGs). By encouraging small animal rearing—such as goats, sheep, and rabbits—the scheme is projected to contribute an additional 12.25 thousand metric tons (TMT) of meat production annually.
Officials stated that this sub-scheme aligns with the state government’s broader mission to improve nutritional security, generate employment in rural areas, and enhance household incomes. It also complements ongoing efforts under the PSSY, which already includes a “Poultry Development” programme previously approved by the Cabinet.
Under the new initiative, beneficiaries will receive support for infrastructure development, livestock procurement, feed management, veterinary care, and capacity-building training. The scheme is designed to empower small and marginal farmers, especially women, by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities and improving access to markets.
With meat consumption rising steadily across Odisha, the government aims to bridge the gap between demand and local production. By promoting small animal husbandry, the scheme seeks to reduce dependency on imports from other states and strengthen local supply chains.
Officials further noted that the programme will be implemented in coordination with panchayati raj institutions, veterinary field units, and cooperative bodies to ensure efficient monitoring and timely delivery of benefits. Regular health check-ups, vaccination drives, and insurance coverage are also part of the plan to ensure livestock health and productivity.
The approval of the Small Animal Development sub-scheme reflects the state’s commitment to rural development, economic sustainability, and women-led entrepreneurship. By integrating traditional farming practices with modern livestock management, the government hopes to build a resilient and self-reliant animal husbandry sector.
The initiative is anticipated to contribute significantly to Odisha’s goal of becoming self-sufficient in meat production while enhancing the socio-economic status of rural communities.
