National Livestock Mission (NLM)

Introduction 

The National Livestock Mission (NLM) is a scheme launched by the Government of India in the financial year 2014-15 to support the livestock sector across the country. Its core goal is to increase per animal productivity through breed improvement while encouraging entrepreneurship in poultry, sheep, goat, piggery, and fodder production. Revised and realigned in 2021-22, the mission focuses on generating employment and boosting income for farmers, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and entrepreneurs by providing financial assistance and subsidies. This agriculture scheme helps beneficiaries establish breeding farms and fodder units with capital subsidies up to ₹50 lakh, enhancing the supply of quality livestock products like meat, milk, eggs, and wool. It also supports research, innovation, and awareness programs to develop the sector sustainably. Eligible applicants include individuals and organized farmer groups, who can apply through an online portal. Overall, the National Livestock Mission (NLM) addresses challenges like low productivity and lack of organized sector linkage, aiming to increase livestock production in India while creating livelihood opportunities in rural areas. This inclusive approach benefits small and marginal farmers, promoting rural development and animal husbandry growth in a transparent and accessible way.

Overview of the Scheme

The National Livestock Mission (NLM) is a centrally sponsored scheme launched by the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India, in the financial year 2014-15. It was realigned and revamped in 2021-22 to sharpen focus on entrepreneurship, employment generation, and increasing productivity of livestock like poultry, sheep, goat, piggery, camel, horse, and donkey. The mission supports livestock farmers, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and entrepreneurs across India to improve livestock breeding, feed and fodder availability, and promote innovation and research.

Implementing agencies include the Central and State Departments of Animal Husbandry along with agricultural and veterinary departments at the state level. NABARD also plays a role as a subsidy channelizing agency. The funding pattern for NLM is generally shared between the Central Government and State Governments, typically on a 60:40 basis, with exceptions like the North Eastern States receiving 90% central assistance.

The scheme covers important components such as:

• Breed Development of Livestock and Poultry (including breed improvement infrastructure and entrepreneurship)
• Feed and Fodder Development (fodder seed supply, silage making, hay baling)
• Research, Development, Innovation, Extension, and Livestock Insurance

For example, individuals and farmer groups can receive subsidies up to ₹50 lakh for setting up breed development units or fodder production projects.

Objectives 

The National Livestock Mission (NLM) objectives focus on improving the livestock sector in India by increasing productivity and supporting entrepreneurship. The main goals are aimed at farmers, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and entrepreneurs to help grow the livestock economy while improving livelihoods.

Key objectives of the National Livestock Mission (NLM) include:

• Increase production of meat, eggs, goat milk, wool, and fodder through better livestock management.
• Support employment and entrepreneurship development in poultry, sheep, goat, piggery, and fodder sectors.
• Improve per animal productivity by promoting breed improvement and providing quality germplasm.
• Enhance fodder and feed availability by strengthening the fodder seed supply chain and encouraging fodder processing units.
• Promote risk management practices such as livestock insurance for farmers to reduce loss.
• Build the capacity of state functionaries and livestock owners by strengthening extension services and providing skill-based training.
• Encourage research, innovation, and technology transfer to reduce production costs and improve outputs.
• Foster community participation and facilitate farmer groups, cooperatives, and producer companies for better livestock management and marketing.
• Promote conservation and genetic upgradation of indigenous livestock breeds aligned with sustainable development.

Key Features / Benefits 

The National Livestock Mission (NLM) offers several key benefits aimed at improving livestock productivity and promoting rural entrepreneurship. These benefits provide practical support through subsidies, skill development, and infrastructure assistance, benefiting farmers, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and entrepreneurs.

Subsidy on Breed Development: NLM provides up to 50% capital subsidy for establishing poultry, sheep, goat, piggery, and other livestock breed development units, with a ceiling of ₹50 lakh. (Example: A small entrepreneur setting up a poultry breeding farm can get half the project cost supported under the scheme.)

Feed and Fodder Support: The mission encourages fodder seed production, silage making, and hay baling by providing incentives to entrepreneurs, helping ensure affordable and quality feed for livestock.

Entrepreneurship Promotion: Financial assistance and subsidies help individuals and groups start small livestock enterprises, creating jobs and enhancing rural incomes.

Livestock Insurance Assistance: The scheme supports livestock insurance, reducing financial risks for farmers caused by animal diseases or death.

Special Benefits for Marginalized Groups: Higher subsidy rates apply for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), women entrepreneurs, and farmers in North Eastern and Himalayan states, increasing support for vulnerable communities.

Capacity Building and Training: NLM funds training programs to equip farmers and stakeholders with modern livestock management skills.

Support for Innovation and R&D: Funds are available for research, new technology adoption, and extension services to improve livestock practices.

Inclusive Coverage: Activities cover small ruminants, backyard poultry, camel, horse, and non-conventional livestock enhancing income diversity.

Online Application and Monitoring: The scheme operates through a transparent digital portal where beneficiaries can apply and track their projects.

Eligibility Criteria 

The National Livestock Mission (NLM) has clear eligibility criteria to ensure the right beneficiaries receive support. Different categories of beneficiaries have specific requirements, making the scheme accessible to a wide range of participants in the livestock sector.

Farmers:

• Individual farmers owning land and livestock can apply. They should be residents of the project area and provide valid identity proof like Aadhaar.
• Age criteria usually require applicants to be adults capable of managing livestock activities.
• Documents needed include land ownership or lease records, identity proof, and bank account details for subsidy transfer.

Self-Help Groups (SHGs):

• SHGs must be registered and actively functioning with a bank link to receive financial assistance.
• Groups need to maintain valid documentation confirming their registration and operational status.

Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs):

• FPOs should be registered under the Producer Companies Act or cooperative societies.
• They must demonstrate active operation with a minimum number of members as per official norms.
• Documents required include registration certificates and financial statements indicating ongoing activities.

Entrepreneurs/Startups/MSMEs:

• Eligible entrepreneurs must have formal registration, such as UDYAM registration or GST certificates, depending on the project size.
• Startups working in livestock development with proper licenses can apply.
• Project proposals (DPR), quotations, and bank details must accompany the application.

Special Categories:

• Women entrepreneurs, Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and residents of North Eastern or Himalayan regions receive priority and enhanced subsidy benefits.

Not Eligible:

• Duplicate beneficiaries receiving similar subsidies under other schemes or ineligible activities like purely trading livestock without entrepreneurship focus are excluded.

Mandatory Documents:

• Typical documents include Aadhaar card, land records, identity proofs, bank passbook, registration certificates (for SHGs/FPOs/companies), detailed project reports (DPR), and quotations for equipment or inputs.

Application Process

The application process for the National Livestock Mission (NLM) is designed to be mainly online through an official government portal, making it easier for farmers, entrepreneurs, SHGs, and FPOs to apply for scheme benefits.

Here is a clear, step-by-step application process for NLM:

1. 1. Where to Apply
      Apply online through the official NLM portal at www.nlm.udyamimitra.in. This portal is the central platform for registration, application, tracking, and document submission.
      
      

• Registration/Login

1. 1. • Open the portal and register as a new user by providing a mobile number and creating a profile.
      • Existing users can log in using their mobile number and OTP (One Time Password).
        
        

• Filling the Application Form

1. • Enter beneficiary details (name, ID proof, contact).
   • Provide details of land or farm where the project will be implemented.
   • Choose the component of the scheme relevant to breed improvement, fodder development, or entrepreneurship.
   • Enter bank account details to enable direct benefit transfers.
     
     
2. Documents to Upload
   Upload scanned copies of required documents such as Aadhaar card, land ownership or lease proof, bank passbook, registration certificates (for SHGs/FPOs/companies), detailed project report (DPR), and quotations for equipment or livestock inputs.
   
   
3. Application Fee
   There is no application fee mentioned for applying under NLM.
   
   
4. Submission and Acknowledgment
   After submitting the application form and uploading documents, the applicant receives an acknowledgment with a unique application ID for future tracking.
   
   
5. Verification and Field Inspection
   The State Implementing Agency (SIA) verifies the application and may conduct a field inspection to confirm the feasibility of the proposed project.
   
   
6. Approval Process
   The reviewed application and field report are forwarded to the State Level Executive Committee (SLEC) and then to the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) at the central level for final approval. Subsidy approval is marked on the portal.
   
   
7. Assistance Release
   Subsidies are released in two equal installments via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the beneficiary’s registered bank account after fulfilling all terms and conditions.
   
   
8. Offline Option
   Applicants can also approach the nearest Agriculture Office, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), ATMA, or Block Development Office for guidance and assistance in filling the application form.
   
   
9. Official Helpline
   For queries, beneficiaries can contact NLM helpline numbers: 8275169972, 8275087208, 8275375493, and 7588901859 during office hours (Monday to Friday, 09:45 AM to 06:15 PM).
   
   

Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes

• Ensure all names match exactly with Aadhaar and bank account documents.
• Upload clear, legible copies of all required documents.
• Fill out every section of the application form carefully, especially bank details.
• Submit the form before the deadline indicated on the portal to avoid rejection.

Challenges or Limitations 

The National Livestock Mission (NLM) has made significant progress, but like any large scheme, it faces some challenges and limitations. Understanding these common issues and practical solutions can help beneficiaries and implementers make the most of the scheme’s benefits.

Limited Awareness and Outreach → Many rural farmers are unaware of the NLM benefits, reducing participation.

Solution: Local agriculture offices and animal husbandry departments should organize awareness camps regularly to ensure farmers know how to apply.

Delays in Verification and Approval → The verification process involving document checks and field inspections can take time.

Solution: Keep all documents like land records and identity proofs updated and ready to avoid unnecessary delays during verification.

Insufficient Infrastructure → In some regions, the availability of veterinary services, diagnostic labs, and fodder banks is limited, affecting scheme outcomes.

Solution: Beneficiaries should collaborate with local veterinary centers early to plan breed improvement or fodder development activities.

Funding Constraints and Budget Limitations → At times, fund disbursement may be delayed or limited due to budget caps, affecting timely project execution.

Solution: Submit complete applications early in the financial year and maintain regular contact with implementing agencies.

Document Mismatch or Errors → Common mistakes like name mismatches in Aadhaar, bank accounts, and application forms can lead to rejection.

Solution: Double-check all personal and bank details in the application form against official documents before submission.

Seasonal Constraints → Livestock breeding and fodder production depend on seasonal cycles, sometimes delaying project steps.

Solution: Plan project timelines according to local livestock breeding seasons and fodder availability patterns.

Coordination Between Agencies → Sometimes, lack of smooth communication between central and state agencies leads to fragmented or overlapping efforts.

Solution: Beneficiaries should seek guidance from state livestock departments or nodal officers to understand scheme status and processes.

Limited Skill and Training Access → Farmers may lack scientific knowledge of livestock management or modern breeding techniques.

Solution: Participating in NLM-supported training and extension programs can build needed skills and improve project success.

Government Support & Future Outlook 

The National Livestock Mission (NLM) actively connects with other central and state agricultural schemes to provide a more comprehensive support system for farmers, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). This convergence helps beneficiaries access a wide range of resources and services efficiently.

NLM is often linked with schemes such as PM-KISAN for direct income support, PMFBY (Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana) for crop insurance complementing livestock insurance efforts, and ATMA (Agricultural Technology Management Agency) for extension services and training. It also works alongside RKVY (Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana) to strengthen rural infrastructure, while custom hiring centers support mechanization in fodder production. These linkages create a supportive ecosystem covering animal health, feed, breeding, marketing, and risk management.

For example, an FPO supported by NLM to start a goat breeding farm can also benefit from PM-KISAN’s income support, PMFBY insurance against natural losses, and ATMA’s training programs to improve husbandry practices, making the overall venture more robust and profitable.

The National Livestock Mission was realigned in the financial year 2021-22 to sharpen its employment and entrepreneurship focus, with ongoing efforts to expand budget allocations and extend its timeline to ensure long-term support for the livestock sector’s growth.

Conclusion 

The National Livestock Mission (NLM) plays a vital role in enhancing India’s livestock sector by supporting farmers, SHGs, FPOs, and entrepreneurs with subsidies, skill development, and infrastructure support. This scheme helps increase productivity, improve livelihoods, and create jobs in rural areas. Those interested in benefiting from NLM should first check their eligibility and prepare necessary documents such as Aadhaar, land records, and project details before applying online through the official portal www.nlm.udyamimitra.in. It is also advisable to consult the local agriculture or animal husbandry office for guidance. Staying updated on the latest scheme details via the official portal or helpline ensures a smooth application process and timely receipt of benefits.
Explore detailed resources on this scheme and the full suite of programmes at ALL ABOUT AGRICULTURE. For one-on-one assistance, call us at +91 8484002620.