The plans to launch a National Mission for Protein Supplements and the Accelerated Fodder Development Programme will give the livestock sector, particularly dairy industry a much needed support.

Mr R.G. Chandramogan, Chairman and Managing Director, Hatsun Agro Product Ltd, a market leader and largest private sector dairy in India, welcomed the steps to encourage fodder development for supporting the output of milk. Measures to encourage cold chain infrastructure is another positive feature in the budget.

However, the industry had been hoping for priority sector status for lending to dairy units. The budget does not provide for this facility as expected. This is disappointing, he said.

Fodder availability is a key concern in the backdrop of shrinking land availability.

A concerted effort for fodder development is a welcome move that will give a fillip to the industry. However, for effectiveness, proper implementation of both programmes, fodder development and mission on protein supplements the ground level holds the key.

“The provisions to support cold chain infrastructure is a welcome feature which also signifies the Government's recognition that this is an essential infrastructure rather than a luxury. This change in attitude is a welcome move,” he said.

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