Enhancing Milk Productivity through Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM)

Understanding Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM)

The Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) is a significant initiative launched by the Indian government aimed at boosting milk productivity while preserving indigenous cattle breeds. The mission emphasizes genetic enhancement of cattle through advanced methodologies, thereby supporting the overall development of the dairy sector.

Proposal to Revamp RGM

The proposal to revamp the Rashtriya Gokul Mission encompasses several key strategies:

• Advanced Genetic Technologies: Introduction of in-vitro fertilization, sex-sorted semen, and genomic selection to enhance the genetic quality of cattle.
• Increased Budget: An allocation of ₹600 crore aimed at supporting the enhancements and ensuring effective implementation of the mission.
• Improved Productivity: Strategic plans to elevate milk yield while improving the overall health and productivity of indigenous breeds.
• Wider Farmer Participation: Initiatives to encourage more farmers to engage in dairy farming through better support systems and improved cattle breeds.

Why is Revamping RGM Necessary?

The necessity to revamp the Rashtriya Gokul Mission arises from various factors:

• Low Milk Productivity: Current levels of milk productivity are trailing behind global standards, highlighting the need for technological interventions to enhance yields.
• Climate Challenges: Indigenous cattle breeds are currently facing numerous challenges due to climate change, which adversely affects their productivity and health.
• Resource Optimization: Utilizing advanced genetic technologies to ensure efficient resource usage, enhancing the quality and profitability of dairy farming.
• Farmer Welfare: By improving cattle breeds and productivity, the mission aims to secure better incomes and livelihoods for farmers engaged in dairy farming.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the main goal of the Rashtriya Gokul Mission?
Answer: The main goal of the Rashtriya Gokul Mission is to enhance milk productivity and promote the conservation of indigenous cattle breeds through genetic improvements and advanced technologies.

Q2. How much budget has been allocated for the revamped RGM?
Answer: The revamped Rashtriya Gokul Mission has an allocated budget of ₹600 crore to support its initiatives and ensure effective implementation.

Q3. What technologies are being used in the RGM for genetic enhancement?
Answer: The RGM utilizes advanced technologies such as in-vitro fertilization, sex-sorted semen, and genomic selection to improve the genetic quality of cattle.

Q4. Why is farmer participation important in the RGM?
Answer: Farmer participation is crucial as it promotes engagement in dairy farming, leading to better support systems and improved cattle breeds, ultimately enhancing productivity.

Q5. What challenges do indigenous breeds face under climate change?
Answer: Indigenous breeds are significantly impacted by climate change, facing challenges that affect their productivity, health, and overall adaptability to changing environmental conditions.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary focus of the Rashtriya Gokul Mission?
A) Enhancing crop yield
B) Boosting milk productivity
C) Promoting urban farming
D) Increasing poultry production
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: How much funding has been allocated for the revamped RGM?
A) ₹300 crore
B) ₹600 crore
C) ₹1000 crore
D) ₹500 crore
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: Which technology is not used in the RGM?
A) In-vitro fertilization
B) Sex-sorted semen
C) Genetic modification
D) Genomic selection
Correct Answer: C

Question 4: Why is climate change a concern for indigenous breeds?
A) It increases their milk yield
B) It affects their health and productivity
C) It reduces their lifespan
D) It improves breeding conditions
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What is one of the objectives of the RGM for farmers?
A) Provide subsidies for urban farming
B) Enhance livestock technology training
C) Encourage more farmers in dairy farming
D) Reduce the number of cattle breeds
Correct Answer: C