The recent spotlight on the Rastriya Kamdhenu Aayog (RKA), due to its announcement of the ‘Kamdhenu Gau-Vigyan Prachar-Prasar Exam’, has sparked conversation and interest among many. This exam is designed to “infuse curiosity” about cows’ significance in individuals and to “sensitise and educate” them about this species, highlighting how pivotal they are within the society and economy.
Rastriya Kamdhenu Aayog: An Overview
Rastriya Kamdhenu Aayog (RKA) operates under the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, which in turn is under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying. It was established with a clear mission: to protect our bovine population. The institution works towards organizing animal husbandry along modern, scientific lines. They endeavour to take steps which aid in preserving and improving breeds, and prohibit the slaughter of cows, calves, and other cattle used for milch and draught.
RKA holds a significant position as a high-powered, permanent body commissioned to formulate policies and provide directions for implementing schemes related to cattle. This approach places more emphasis on generating livelihoods for small & marginal farmers, women and youth entrepreneurs.
India’s Bovine Population: A Diverse Lot
India is home to an expansive range of bovine species, with 50 well-defined breeds of cattle and 17 breeds of buffaloes. The diverse genetic composition of this population showcases the rich heritage of India’s livestock sector.
Rashtriya Gokul Mission: A Partner in Bovine Protection
RKA functions closely with Rashtriya Gokul Mission, another initiative of the Government of India. Launched in December 2014, the mission focuses on the development and conservation of indigenous bovine breeds. It aids genetic upgradation of the bovine population and works towards enhancing milk production and productivity.
Ultimately, through these efforts, it seeks to make milk production more profitable for farmers. This mission is an integral part of a larger strategy designed to strengthen India’s dairy industry and bolster the rural economy.
Infusing Curiosity and Imparting Education
Through initiatives like the Kamdhenu Gau-Vigyan Prachar-Prasar Exam, RKA aims to foster interest and disseminate knowledge about the indispensable role of the bovine species in agriculture and dairy sectors. By encouraging curiosity, RKA aims to promote greater awareness and respect for these animals and their contribution to society and the environment.
Overall, the central objective of RKA and its various programmes is to ensure the sustainable development of the livestock sector in India, thereby guaranteeing food security and economic well-being for millions of people, particularly those from farming communities.
