India Evaluates Proposal for Camel Milk Powder Plant in Rajasthan

The Union government of India is currently considering a proposal from Rajasthan to set up a camel milk powder plant. This initiative is motivated by a rising global interest in camel-derived dairy products. The announcement was made by Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan Singh, during a consultative parliamentary committee meeting held in Jaisalmer last week.

The proposed plant aims to create new market opportunities for Rajasthan’s camel herders and aligns with the state’s objective to become a leader in animal husbandry and dairy production. Camel milk powder is seen as a niche market with high potential for premium dairy exports.

Additionally, the committee reviewed the progress of Mission Utkarsh, an initiative focused on improving livestock genetics and productivity. In Jaisalmer, 52 Pashu Maitri have been trained to assist with artificial insemination to enhance milk yields, intending to increase farmers' incomes through scientific breeding techniques.

Rajasthan's Animal Husbandry Minister, Joraram Kumawat, emphasized the need for increased farmer involvement in livestock activities to boost rural incomes and self-reliance. He outlined plans to expand the state’s dairy network to the village level by 2030, supported by advanced processing infrastructure and national branding efforts.

Kumawat also requested substantial central assistance for veterinary infrastructure improvements, including ₹2,297 crore for new hospitals and sub-centres. Moreover, he sought support for breed improvement through the acquisition of 10,000 doses of high-quality Gir cattle semen from Brazil and wider deployment of the Lumpy Pro vaccine to safeguard animal health.