UPSSSC Test 26

Animal husbandry is a critical component of the rural economy of Uttar Pradesh, providing supplementary income to farming families, nutritional security through milk and eggs, and draught power for agricultural operations. The state has one of the largest livestock populations in the country, with substantial numbers of cattle, buffalo, goats, sheep, and poultry. Dairy farming is particularly significant, and Uttar Pradesh is among the top milk-producing states in India. The white revolution that transformed India's dairy sector has had a significant impact in UP, with milk cooperatives operating in many districts and collecting milk from large numbers of small and marginal farmers who maintain one or two milch animals. The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi and various state government schemes provide support to livestock farmers including subsidies on purchase of high-yielding dairy animals, veterinary services, and artificial insemination to improve genetic quality of the herd. Goat farming has emerged as an important livelihood activity for small farmers and scheduled caste communities in particular, as goats require less capital investment and space compared to cattle while providing regular income from meat and milk. The state government has established goat development schemes providing subsidised loans and training to prospective farmers. Poultry farming, both in the organised sector through large integrated poultry companies and in the unorganised sector through backyard poultry keeping, provides eggs and meat to meet growing consumer demand and supports livelihoods in rural areas. Fisheries development has received increased attention in recent years, with the government promoting fish farming in ponds, reservoirs, and water bodies across the state. The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana has provided financial support for pond construction, fingerling supply, feed, and equipment. The state aims to increase fish production significantly to improve nutrition, generate employment, and earn export revenue from aquaculture products.