Context:
On July 11, 2025, the Maharashtra Cabinet approved a historic policy decision to grant agricultural status to livestock and poultry farming, making Maharashtra the first Indian state to do so.
Background
- Traditionally, India’s agriculture policy prioritized crop farming, while livestock was treated as an allied activity.
- This excluded livestock farmers from agriculture-specific benefits like subsidised power, institutional credit, and tax exemptions.
- Maharashtra’s move seeks to bridge this policy gap and recognize the economic importance of animal husbandry.
Significance
- Over 37 million livestock farmers in Maharashtra to benefit.
- Ensures policy parity between crop producers and livestock farmers.
- Recognizes animal husbandry as a core component of agriculture, not merely an allied activity.
Key Features and Benefits
| Feature | Impact |
|---|---|
| Agricultural Power Tariffs | Livestock units (poultry, dairy, fisheries) eligible for subsidised rates |
| Tax Relief | Local taxes now aligned with agriculture sector norms |
| Institutional Credit Access | Eligibility for Kisan Credit Cards (KCC), agriculture loans, and interest relief |
| Solar Subsidy | Subsidies for solar pumps, sheds, and infrastructure |
Sector-Wise Impact
- Poultry: Reduced costs will expand hatcheries and meat/egg production.
- Dairy: Improved viability for small/mid-sized dairy operators.
- Goat & Sheep Farming: Boost for marginal and landless farmers.
- Fisheries: Better access to aquaculture infrastructure and credit.
Economic & Policy Implications
- Projected to boost annual rural income by â‚ą7,080 crore.
- Aligns with ICAR and NITI Aayog recommendations on livestock development.
- Strengthens rural value chains (milk, meat, leather, wool, eggs).
Challenges Ahead
- Land-use classification issues may hinder benefits.
- Need to simplify zoning and regulatory procedures.
- Effective monitoring, training, and outreach will be essential to avoid elite capture and ensure smallholder participation.
