During his ‘Mann ki Baat’ radio broadcast, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised a unique initiative called the “Goat Bank” that is being spearheaded by a couple from Odisha. This initiative aims to promote goat rearing at the community level and has been instrumental in fostering self-sufficiency in animal husbandry among villagers.
PM Modi highlighted the often overlooked importance of goat rearing in discussions about animal husbandry, which tend to focus on cows and buffaloes. He emphasized the significant role that goats play in the livelihoods of people in various regions of the country, particularly in Kalahandi, Odisha, where the practice is gaining popularity as a means of improving the standards of living for villagers.
The Prime Minister also explained the operational model of the Goat Bank, wherein farmers receive goats that give birth to multiple kids within a span of two years. While the bank retains six kids, the remaining offspring are provided to the same family for further goat rearing. This initiative has successfully engaged over 1,000 farmers from 50 villages, empowering them to become self-reliant in the field of animal husbandry.
PM Modi commended such initiatives and highlighted the cultural values of service and selflessness deeply rooted in Indian society. He cited examples of individuals like Bhim Singh Bhavesh from Bihar, who focuses on education and healthcare for underprivileged communities, and Mohammad Manshah from Jammu and Kashmir, dedicated to preserving the Gojri language. These examples showcase the spirit of social responsibility and dedication that exists among the people of India.
