India’s 21st Livestock Census

4.India’s 21st Livestock Census: The Census was started in October 2024 expected to conclude the result by July 2025.

• About: The Livestock Census is a 5-yearly headcount of the domesticated animals and poultry.

o Conducted by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying. 

o Covers 16 species and 219 breeds of livestock.

o Data Collection: Mobile app with image upload, location tracking, and breed identification.

• Purpose: Aims to provide updated livestock data for better policies on disease control, breed improvement, and rural livelihoods.

o Recognizes the livestock sector’s role in nutrition, employment, and income generation.

• Trends & Emerging Patterns:

o Past Trends (2019 Census): Decline in camels (-37.1%), pigs (-12.03%), horses (-45.2%), donkeys (-61.2%).

o Increase in poultry (+16.08%).

• Possible 2024 Trends: Cattle numbers may rise, but buffalo numbers may decline in households while increasing in farms.

o Haryana’s Cow Protection Act (2015, 2019) restricted cattle trade and slaughter.

o Women in Livestock Farming: Over 70% of livestock farmers are women.