Feed and Fodder Development Scheme

Introduction 

The Feed and Fodder Development Scheme is an agriculture scheme launched by the Government of India in 2014 under the National Livestock Mission. Its main goal is to improve the availability of quality feed and fodder for livestock, which is essential for higher milk, meat, and other animal-based production. India faces a persistent shortage of green and dry fodder, especially during lean seasons, affecting farmers’ incomes and livestock productivity. This scheme addresses that gap by supporting the cultivation of fodder crops, establishment of fodder banks, and use of improvd feeding practices.

The scheme targets farmers, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and entrepreneurs involved in animal husbandry. It provides financial assistance for activities such as block and strip planting, fodder seed distribution, and silage making. Eligible beneficiaries can apply through designated state agriculture or animal husbandry departments, ensuring structured support and monitoring.

The benefits of this scheme include increased livestock productivity, reduced feed shortages, and strengthened rural livelihoods. By enhancing fodder production, the program also supports sustainable livestock management and better income security for farmers. Interested individuals should check eligibility and application guidelines on official portals to access these benefits while staying updated on state-specific provisions.

Overview of the Scheme

The Feed and Fodder Development Scheme is a centrally sponsored agriculture scheme launched by the Government of India under the Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries (DADF). It operates as part of the National Livestock Mission and is currently ongoing, with the focus on increasing fodder availability for livestock across India.

Implementing agencies include:

• State animal husbandry and agriculture departments
• Regional fodder production stations and demonstration farms
• Central Fodder Seed Production Farms (e.g., Hesserghatta)

Funding pattern: It is a centrally sponsored scheme, typically sharing costs between the Centre and States (60:40 for most states, 90:10 for North-Eastern states). The scheme supports activities such as fodder cultivation, seed distribution, and establishment of fodder banks.

Coverage and components:

• Cultivation of green and dry fodder
• Supply of quality fodder seeds and planting material
• Demonstration plots and training for farmers
• Support for silage making and value addition

Example: A farmer group in Maharashtra can receive assistance to plant improved fodder crops on 5 acres, ensuring steady feed supply for their dairy animals during lean seasons.

This scheme benefits farmers, SHGs, FPOs, and livestock entrepreneurs. Its main goal is sustainable fodder production, improved livestock productivity, and enhanced rural incomes.

Objectives 

The Feed and Fodder Development Scheme aims to address the shortage of quality feed and fodder for livestock in India. Its objectives focus on improving fodder availability, promoting modern cultivation techniques, and supporting sustainable livestock management. The scheme’s goals are designed for farmers, dairy cooperatives, SHGs, FPOs, and state agencies engaged in animal husbandry.

Key objectives include:

• Increase fodder production by promoting the cultivation of green and dry fodder, including perennial crops.
• Promote conservation of crop residues through fodder block making and silage units.
• Support quality seed production by developing superior fodder varieties and ensuring their distribution to farmers.
• Encourage efficient feed utilization by introducing chaff cutters, feed testing laboratories, and area-specific mineral mixtures.
• Develop grasslands and wastelands through reseeding, rehabilitation of degraded soil, and creation of fodder reserves.
• Introduce alternative feed sources such as Azolla and by-pass proteins for high-yielding dairy animals.
• Train farmers and state officials in modern fodder cultivation, silage making, and feed management.
• Reduce the gap between demand and supply of feed and fodder across India, enhancing livestock productivity and farmer income.

These objectives clearly reflect the purpose and goals of the Feed and Fodder Development Scheme, supporting sustainable and efficient livestock farming nationwide.

Key Features / Benefits 

The Feed and Fodder Development Scheme provides structured support to improve fodder production, feed quality, and livestock productivity across India. Its features and benefits are designed to help farmers, dairy cooperatives, SHGs, FPOs, and entrepreneurs effectively manage feed resources.

• Subsidy for Fodder Block Making Units
  Provides 50% capital subsidy for establishing units that convert crop residues into fodder blocks, reducing wastage and improving storage.
  (Example: A cooperative setting up a small fodder block unit can receive half of the project cost as support.)
• Grassland Development Support
  Fully funded central grant to develop grasslands, rehabilitate degraded soils, and create fodder reserves.
  (Example: A village developing 10 hectares of grassland receives 100% funding from the Centre.)
• Fodder Seed Production and Distribution
  Covers 75% of the cost for procuring and distributing high-quality fodder seeds to farmers. Ensures access to superior varieties.
  (Example: Farmers planting improved maize fodder can get most of the seed cost reimbursed.)
• Feed Testing Laboratory Strengthening
  Provides 50% subsidy for enhancing feed testing facilities, ensuring quality feed supply to livestock.
• Chaff Cutter Support
  Subsidy for hand-driven and power-driven chaff cutters to improve feed utilization and reduce wastage.
• Silage Unit Establishment
  Fully funded support for silage-making units to store surplus fodder for lean periods.
• Azolla Cultivation Promotion
  Encourages cultivation of Azolla as an alternate green feed with 50% subsidy.
• By-pass Protein Production Units
  Partial central grant (25%) to produce by-pass protein for high-yielding dairy animals, improving feed efficiency.
• Area-Specific Mineral Mixtures
  Supports 25% of capital cost for manufacturing or pelting mineral mixtures to address local nutrient deficiencies.
• Demonstration and Training Programs
  Promotes farmer education on modern fodder techniques, silage making, and feed management for better productivity.

These features ensure that the Feed and Fodder Development Scheme not only increases fodder availability but also improves feed quality, reduces wastage, and strengthens rural livelihoods through higher livestock productivity.

Eligibility Criteria 

The Feed and Fodder Development Scheme is open to a variety of beneficiaries who are directly involved in livestock feed production and management. Eligibility depends on the type of applicant, with documents and criteria designed to ensure proper utilization of support.

Farmers

• Individual farmers or landholders across India can apply.
• Must have proof of land ownership or lease and residency in the state.
• Mandatory documents include AADHAAR, land records, and bank passbook.
• Age or experience may be considered for specific components.

Self-Help Groups (SHGs)

• Must be officially registered and actively functioning.
• Should have a bank account for receiving subsidies or grants.
• Projects must align with fodder cultivation or feed processing.

Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)

• Registered under the Producer Companies Act or similar state laws.
• Must have a minimum number of active members and ongoing operations.
• Should maintain proper documentation for project proposals.

Entrepreneurs / MSMEs / Startups

• Eligible if registered under UDYAM, GST, or as per state regulations.
• Must submit a detailed project report (DPR) and quotations for equipment.

Special Categories

• Some components offer higher central assistance for women, SC/ST, North-Eastern, or hilly regions as per official rules.

Not Eligible

• Activities not related to fodder/feed production or duplicate projects already receiving assistance.

Mandatory documents vary by component but typically include project proposal/DPR, registration certificates, land records, bank account details, and quotations. These criteria ensure the scheme benefits genuine farmers and organizations working to improve livestock feed and fodder availability.

Application Process

Applying for the Feed and Fodder Development Scheme involves preparing a project and submitting it through the proper government channels. Both online and offline routes are possible, depending on state procedures.

1. Prepare the Project Proposal
   • Beneficiaries must draft a project according to the scheme’s guidelines, specifying the component (e.g., fodder block, silage unit, chaff cutter, Azolla unit).
   • Include estimated costs, land details, and expected benefits.
2. Where to Apply
   • Submit the project to the State Animal Husbandry Department for recommendation.
   • Official portal for scheme details: www.dahd.nic.in → Schemes → Centrally Sponsored Fodder Development Scheme.
   • Some states may allow online submission via their respective agriculture or animal husbandry portals.
3. Registration/Login
   • Create an account on the state portal if available.
   • Provide beneficiary details including name, AADHAAR, and contact information.
4. Fill the Application Form
   • Sections include beneficiary details, land/farm details, selected scheme components, cost estimates, and bank information for assistance transfer.
5. Upload / Submit Documents
   • Mandatory: AADHAAR, land records, bank passbook, project proposal/DPR, and quotations for equipment.
   • Ensure scanned copies are clear and legible.
6. Application Fee
   • No fee is mentioned in official guidelines for submission.
7. Acknowledgment / Application ID
   • After submission, beneficiaries receive an acknowledgment with an application number to track the status.
8. Verification / Field Inspection
   • The state department may conduct an on-site inspection to verify land, equipment, and feasibility.
9. Approval and Fund Release
   • Upon approval, financial assistance is released as central/state grants or subsidies, depending on the component (e.g., 50–100% central grant).
   • Release may be via Direct Benefit Transfer to the bank account provided.
10. Offline Application Option
    • Beneficiaries can approach the nearest Animal Husbandry office, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), or ATMA block office.
    • Submit the project proposal with all documents for official recommendation and forwarding.

Official Contact / Helpline

• Dr. H.R. Keshvamurthy, Director (C&FF), Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries, Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi 110001
• Phone: 011-23389212 | Email: dirdd@nic.in

Tips for Applicants

• Double-check AADHAAR and bank account details to avoid transfer failures.
• Ensure land records and quotations match the project proposal.
• Submit before deadlines to avoid rejection.
• Keep a copy of acknowledgement for future reference.

Challenges or Limitations 

While the Feed and Fodder Development Scheme provides substantial support to farmers and livestock entrepreneurs, certain practical challenges can affect smooth implementation. Being aware of these limitations helps applicants plan better and avoid common mistakes.

• Delay in Verification → Field inspections by state officials can take time.
  What to do: Keep land records, farm photos, and other documents ready to speed up verification.
  
  
• Seasonal Timing Constraints → Fodder cultivation and seed distribution are season-sensitive.
  What to do: Apply well in advance of planting seasons to ensure timely support.
  
  
• Document Mismatch → Missing or incorrect documents may cause rejection.
  What to do: Double-check AADHAAR, land records, bank details, and DPRs before submission.
  
  
• Limited Budget / Component Caps → Some components may have limited funding or ceiling amounts.
  What to do: Prioritize essential components and plan project costs accordingly.
  
  
• Multiple Approvals Needed → Applications often require clearance from state and central departments.
  What to do: Maintain regular contact with the local animal husbandry or agriculture office for updates.
  
  
• Knowledge Gap → Some beneficiaries may be unaware of technical requirements or proper cultivation practices.
  What to do: Attend training sessions or demonstrations organized under the scheme.
  
  
• Bank Transfer Errors → Subsidy may be delayed if account details are wrong.
  What to do: Ensure the bank account is active, correct, and linked to the beneficiary’s AADHAAR.
  
  
• Geographical Constraints → Remote or hilly areas may face slower service or inspection.
  What to do: Coordinate early with the local KVK or ATMA office to ensure smooth processing.

These challenges are common but manageable. Awareness and careful preparation help maximize the benefits of the Feed and Fodder Development Scheme while reducing delays or errors.

Government Support & Future Outlook 

The Feed and Fodder Development Scheme is designed to work in tandem with other government agriculture and livestock initiatives, enhancing overall benefits for farmers and FPOs. Convergence ensures better resource use and higher productivity.

• Linkage with ATMA and State Agriculture Programs – By coordinating with ATMA (Agricultural Technology Management Agency) and state-level agriculture schemes, farmers receive timely training, technical guidance, and access to project support.
  (Example: A farmer applying under this scheme can attend an ATMA workshop on silage making to improve fodder utilization.)
  
  
• Integration with PM-KISAN and PMFBY – Fodder support complements income support (PM-KISAN) and crop/livestock insurance (PMFBY), helping farmers manage risks while increasing feed availability.
  
  
• Convergence with RKVY/NFSM and Custom Hiring Centers – Infrastructure, seed distribution, and mechanization support under RKVY or custom hiring centers can be combined with fodder development components, reducing costs and improving efficiency.
  
  
• Future Plans and Updates – The scheme continues under the National Livestock Mission with ongoing implementation and enhanced central support. Recent updates (DAHD, 2025) encourage stronger SHG and FPO participation for entrepreneurship in fodder production.

Overall, linking the Feed and Fodder Development Scheme with other missions allows farmers to maximize benefits, ensure sustainable fodder supply, and improve livestock productivity while leveraging training, credit, and insurance support.

Conclusion 

The Feed and Fodder Development Scheme plays a vital role in ensuring a steady supply of quality feed for livestock, directly supporting farmers, SHGs, FPOs, and livestock entrepreneurs across India. By increasing fodder production, promoting modern cultivation techniques, and providing financial assistance for equipment and seed, the scheme enhances livestock productivity and rural incomes. Beneficiaries can apply through state animal husbandry departments or official portals like www.dahd.nic.in, ensuring they meet all eligibility criteria and submit the required documents. Checking eligibility, preparing accurate land records, bank details, and project proposals in advance can help speed up approval and access the full range of benefits. Always verify the latest updates, funding patterns, and deadlines on official portals or helplines to avoid delays. 

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.