Gokulam sheds scheme boosts dairy sector in Chittoor district

Tirupati: As Chittoor district continues to lead Andhra Pradesh in dairy production, the state government has intensified efforts to implement the revived Gokulam Sheds Scheme. The scheme recognizes the critical need for structured cattle shelters.

The district records an average daily milk collection of 18 to 20 lakh litres, with nearly 80 per cent of farmers involved in dairy farming alongside agriculture to offset financial losses. To support them, the government has revived the Gokulam scheme, originally introduced by the Telugu Desam government in 2018 but later discontinued by the YSRC dispensation. The scheme facilitates dedicated shelters for cattle, promoting better livestock management and enhanced productivity.

As part of this initiative, 2,173 sheds had been sanctioned in Chittoor district, of which 2,094 were grounded. As of March end, 1,393 sheds have been completed, of which 394 are at the basement level, and 191 at the roof-laying stage. The scheme primarily benefits Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe farmers who own at least five acres of land.

Financial assistance under the scheme varies based on landholding size, with subsidies covering up to 90 per cent of the costs under the MGNREG Scheme. The construction of a 50-cent shelter costs Rs.32,992, while a 40-cent shelter costs Rs.26,394, a 30-cent shelter Rs.19,795, a 20-cent shelter Rs.13,197, and a 10-cent shelter Rs.6,599. The subsidy includes both material and labour expenses, reducing the financial burden on beneficiaries.

Several constituencies have benefited from the scheme, including Kuppam, Punganur, Gangadhara Nellore and Palamaner. Kuppam leads with 466 sanctioned shelters, followed by Palamaner with 437 and Puthalapattu with 388. Gangadhara Nellore has recorded the highest completion rate, with 164 of the 238 sanctioned shelters fully constructed.

For dairy farmers, the initiative has provided the much-needed infrastructure. T Anjappa from Naniyala in Ramakuppam mandal constructed a cattle shed with government aid. “With proper shelter, our four cows and two calves are safeguarded, allowing us to supply 18 to 20 litres of milk daily to the local dairy,” he said.

J Venkatesh Naidu from Mittakuthuru in Gangadhara Nellore mandal echoed similar sentiments. “The Gokulam shed has provided better protection for our six cows from harsh weather, leading to improved milk yield,” he said, adding that the scheme has reduced financial strain on dairy farmers, enabling them to build necessary infrastructure without additional burden.

District collector Sumit Kumar said structured cattle sheds would improve livestock health and contribute to higher milk production. He urged farmers to utilise the scheme effectively, emphasizing that the government’s continued support for the dairy sector would ensure long-term economic stability for farmers.