By Tripura24.in Reporter
Agartala: In a major push towards rural self-reliance and economic security for animal rearers, a state-level financial assistance distribution ceremony was held today at Sukanta Academy. During the event, beneficiaries were provided with monetary support under three key initiatives: “Mukhyamantri Prani Palak Samman Nidhi,” the “Calf Growth Meal (CGM)” scheme, and the Livestock and Poultry Loss Compensation program.
The program was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Minister for ARD, Fisheries, and SC Welfare, Shri Sudhangshu Das, who emphasized the government’s commitment to making Tripura self-sufficient in animal products.
Strategic Support for Rural Livelihoods
The event highlighted the multifaceted support system established by the Animal Resource Development Department (ARDD) to shield farmers from financial risks and promote scientific rearing.
Key Schemes Highlighted:
- Mukhyamantri Prani Palak Samman Nidhi: Under this flagship scheme, livestock farmers receive an annual financial assistance of ₹6,000 via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). It targets families with an annual income below ₹2 lakh who rear cows, goats, or pigs.
- Calf Growth Meal (CGM) Scheme: This initiative focuses on the nutritional health of young calves (12 months or less). Farmers are provided with subsidies (ranging from ₹6,000 to ₹6,500) to purchase balanced rations, ensuring high-quality livestock for the future.
- Loss Compensation: To support families facing the “unavoidable loss” of domestic animals or birds due to accidents or diseases, the government provides immediate financial relief of up to ₹20,000.
“Turning Farmers into Entrepreneurs”
Addressing the gathering, Minister Sudhangshu Das noted that the state is working tirelessly to reduce its dependency on imports for milk, meat, and eggs.
”Our goal is not just to provide a subsidy but to turn our traditional farmers into successful entrepreneurs. By covering the risks of livestock death and providing nutritional support for calves, we are building a foundation for a ‘Viksit Tripura’ (Developed Tripura),” the Minister remarked.
Dignitaries and Attendance
The ceremony was marked by the presence of several high-ranking officials and local leaders:
- Shri Biswajit Shil, Sabhadhipati of the West Tripura Zilla Parishad.
- Smt. Deepa D. Nair, Secretary of the ARD Department.
- Senior Directors and technical officers from the ARDD.
Shri Biswajit Shil lauded the department for reaching out to the grassroots, stating that the transparency of DBT ensures that the “Samman Nidhi” reaches the rightful beneficiaries without any middleman interference.
