Source: DD news
Subject: Government Scheme
Context: The Government of India has announced the National Gopal Ratna Awards 2025, one of the highest honours in the livestock and dairy sector.
About National Gopal Ratna Awards 2025:
What it is?
- A prestigious national award recognising outstanding contributions in the livestock and dairy sector, especially those promoting indigenous cattle and scientific dairying.
Launched in: Established in 2021 under the broader framework of the Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM), which itself was launched in December 2014.
Organisation Involved: Conferred by the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAHD), Government of India.
Aim:
- To encourage excellence in dairy farming, indigenous cattle conservation, cooperative dairy development, and scientific breeding services.
- To motivate stakeholders to enhance productivity and improve indigenous breeds.
Features:
- Awards given in three categories:
- Best Dairy Farmer (Indigenous breeds)
- Best Artificial Insemination Technician (AIT)
- Best Dairy Cooperative/FPO/MPC
- Cash prizes:
-
- ₹5 lakh (1st), ₹3 lakh (2nd), ₹2 lakh (3rd).
- Special ₹2 lakh award for NER/Himalayan States.
- AIT category includes certificate & memento only.
- Recognises farmers, cooperatives, and technicians using scientific and ethical dairy practices.
Significance:
- Boosts morale of dairy farmers and enhances India’s indigenous cattle productivity.
- Strengthens rural livelihoods and contributes to India’s dairy self-reliance.
- Supports national priorities like milk quality improvement, breed conservation, and doubling farmer income.
