National Livestock Mission: Genetic Improvement of Pig Breeds - Import of Exotic Pig Germplasm
Cost-shared germplasm import · pig breed improvement · India states
This central government scheme under the National Livestock Mission helps State Animal Husbandry Departments import high-quality exotic pig breeds to improve the genetics of local pig populations and increase per-animal meat productivity. The central government covers 60% of the import cost (90% for NER/Himalayan states), with states contributing the remainder. State livestock agencies can apply through the NLM portal at nlm.udyamimitra.in.
About This Scheme
This central government scheme under the National Livestock Mission helps State Animal Husbandry Departments import high-quality exotic pig breeds to improve the genetics of local pig populations and increase per-animal meat productivity. The central government covers 60% of the import cost (90% for NER/Himalayan states), with states contributing the remainder. State livestock agencies can apply through the NLM portal at nlm.udyamimitra.in.
Full official description
The "Import of Exotic Pig Germplasm" is a component under the Genetic Improvement of Pig Breeds activity of the Sub-Mission on Breed Development of Livestock and Poultry, part of the National Livestock Mission (NLM). This initiative is introduced by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India. Under this scheme, the Central Government will assist the States for need based import of pig germplasm to increase productivity of the non-descript animals and to produce good quality cross bred animals to increase per animal meat production. The superior exotic breeds will be maintained as pure breeds in the nucleus farms at the state government. However, the State needs to formulate and notify their breeding policy for pigs before sending the proposal for import of germplasm. The scheme is implemented by the State Implementing Agencies of the State Animal Husbandry Department. Objectives:
- Inclusion of superior male germplasm in existing native gene pool for genetic upgradation of indigenous pigs for production of crossbred animals with higher per animal productivity.
Benefits
- One-time financial assistance for importing exotic pig germplasm as live animals
- Central government covers 60% of cost; state pays 40% (for NER/Himalayan states: 90% central, 10% state)
💡 Why Startups Should Care
This is a state-level, not individual, scheme — but it matters for pig farming entrepreneurs indirectly by improving the genetic quality of breeding stock available in the state, ultimately boosting productivity across the value chain.
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
- Must be a State Livestock Agency, State Livestock Board, or State Animal Husbandry Department
- State must have a formally notified pig breeding policy before submitting a proposal
How to Apply
- Visit the National Livestock Mission portal (nlm.udyamimitra.in) and click "Apply Here".
- The state agency submits project proposal details and budget estimates.
- Obtain approval from the competent authority.
- Provide bank account details for fund transfer.
- On sanction, the cost-shared assistance is released for germplasm import.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the financial assistance provided under the scheme?
One-time assistance is provided to states for importing exotic pig germplasm on a cost-sharing basis of 60:40, except for North Eastern and Himalayan States, where it is 90:10.
How will the imported pig germplasm be used?
The superior exotic breeds will be maintained as pure breeds in nucleus farms at the state government level for further breeding programs.
Is there any requirement for states before applying for germplasm import?
Yes, states must formulate and notify their breeding policy for pigs before submitting the proposal.
How can a state government submit a proposal for assistance?
The state government must submit a formal proposal, including their breeding policy and an official request, to the concerned authorities.
Can private pig farms apply for assistance under this scheme?
No, only state government agencies, livestock boards, and animal husbandry departments are eligible for assistance.
What is the role of pig semen collection and processing labs?
These labs help in artificial breeding programs by collecting, processing, and storing pig semen for genetic improvement.
Will the government provide funds for setting up semen collection labs?
Yes, assistance is provided for establishing pig semen collection and processing labs under this scheme.
Is there any financial support for pig farmers under this scheme?
No, the scheme provides support only to state government agencies for genetic improvement programs.
How does this scheme support states with weak pig farming infrastructure?
States receive financial assistance for germplasm import and laboratory setup, helping them modernize pig breeding programs.
Can states request assistance multiple times under this scheme?
No, assistance for germplasm import is provided as a one-time financial support.
What is the ratio of financial assistance for North Eastern and Himalayan States?
For these states, financial assistance is provided at a 90:10 cost-sharing ratio.
What types of exotic pig breeds are imported under this scheme?
The scheme focuses on importing superior exotic pig breeds to improve productivity, but specific breeds are determined based on state requirements.
Will the scheme provide technical support for breeding programs?
The scheme primarily provides financial assistance, while technical support may be managed by the state’s animal husbandry department.
What is the long-term goal of this scheme?
The scheme aims to increase per-animal productivity, improve pig breed quality, and boost meat production across states.
Ready to apply?
Visit the official government portal to apply for this scheme.
Apply on myScheme.gov.inDocuments Required
- Details of agency
- Project proposal details
- Budget estimates
- Approval from competent authority
- Bank account details