The Union Minister for Animal Husbandry and Dairying introduced the ‘A-HELP’ (Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of Livestock Production) program in Gujarat. A collaborative effort by the Union Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and the Ministry of Rural Development, ‘A-HELP’ comprises community-based women activists. They aid veterinarians in local departmental activities, assist livestock farmers in securing loans, handle documentation, manage animal registrations, and support insurance processes. The program’s implementation involves enhancing animal health, promoting entrepreneurship, and preventing infectious diseases. ‘A-HELP’ members play a pivotal role in schemes like the Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM).
Prelims pointer
- ‘A-HELP’ (Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of Livestock Production): A program initiated by the Union Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and the Ministry of Rural Development, utilizing community-based women activists to support livestock farmers with various activities and schemes, such as entrepreneurship, documentation, and disease prevention.
- Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM): Launched in December 2014 for the conservation and development of indigenous bovine breeds, aimed at enhancing milk production sustainably and promoting the use of advanced technologies, high genetic merit bulls, and artificial insemination.
- Artificial Insemination: A breeding technique where sperm is introduced into the reproductive tract of a female animal to achieve fertilization without natural mating, promoting genetic improvement and higher productivity.
- Indigenous Bovine Breeds: Native cattle and buffalo breeds that have evolved over time in a specific geographical area, often adapted to local conditions and having unique characteristics.
- Livestock Entrepreneurship: Encouraging farmers to engage in livestock-related businesses, contributing to rural economic growth and livelihood enhancement.
- Animal Insurance: A system where livestock farmers can insure their animals against various risks, providing financial protection in case of diseases, accidents, or other unforeseen events
