The Department of Animal Husbandry, Government of Himachal Pradesh, has introduced the “Scheme of Provision Of Subsidized Rams to Sheep Breeders” to improve the quality and quantity of wool production in the state. This scheme is aimed at enabling sheep breeders with registered sheep units to access superior breeding rams on a subsidized basis. Known for indigenous carpet wool production, the Rampur Bushari and Gaddi breeds have been traditional favorites in the region. Given that one breeding ram is typically required for every 20-25 sheep, the scheme is designed to meet the genetic and productivity needs of Himachal Pradesh’s sheep population, which is approximately 8.05 lakh. The goal is to create a breedable population that can be enhanced with at least 12,000 subsidized rams.
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The scheme focuses on providing high genetic merit breeding rams (such as those of Rambouillet and Russian Merino breeds) at a subsidy of 60% of the purchase cost, thereby promoting modern and scientific methods of sheep breeding and addressing issues like inbreeding among migratory flocks.
Benefits
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Access to Superior Breed Rams:
Sheep breeders can obtain high-quality rams of superior breeds, such as Merino, Rambouillet, and Hampshire, which can significantly improve the genetic potential and productivity of their flocks. -
Subsidized Purchase:
The scheme offers a 60% subsidy on the cost of the rams, making them more affordable for breeders, especially those with limited financial resources. -
Enhanced Wool Production:
By using superior breed rams, the quality and quantity of wool produced are expected to improve, leading to better economic returns. -
Reduction in Inbreeding:
The introduction of genetically superior rams will help disseminate improved germplasm among migratory flocks, reducing the risk of inbreeding. -
Adoption of Modern Practices:
The scheme encourages sheep breeders to adopt modern and scientific breeding practices, ultimately leading to increased productivity and profitability.
Eligibility
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Registered Sheep Breeder:
Only sheep breeders with a registered sheep unit in Himachal Pradesh are eligible. -
Minimum Flock Size:
The breeder must have a flock of at least 25 sheep.- Ram Allocation:
One ram is allotted per 25 sheep, with a maximum of two rams per beneficiary.
- Ram Allocation:
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Agreement Requirement:
Beneficiaries must sign an agreement that they will not sell or castrate the allotted ram during its breeding life.
Application Process
Online Process:
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Visit the Official Website:
Go to the department’s official website. -
Read Guidelines:
Carefully review the detailed guidelines provided on the webpage. -
Agree to Terms:
Scroll down and click the checkbox “I agree with the terms & Conditions.” -
Apply Online:
Click “Apply Online” to access the application form. -
Fill Application Form:
Complete the application form with all required details and upload relevant documents (e.g., registration certificate, land ownership or leasehold rights documents). -
Verification:
The designated authority will verify the application and supporting documents. -
Approval & Allocation:
If approved, the sheep breeder will receive the subsidized rams as per the scheme guidelines.
Offline Process:
- Applicants may also download the application form from the official website, complete it manually, attach the required documents, and submit it at the designated office of the Department of Animal Husbandry.
Documents Required
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Proof of Identity:
Copy of Aadhaar Card. -
Proof of Bank Details:
Copy of Bank Passbook. -
Sheep Unit Registration:
Registration certificate of the sheep unit. -
Additional Documents:
Any other relevant documents as specified by the department (e.g., land ownership/leasehold rights documents).
Frequently Asked Questions
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Who is eligible for the scheme?
The scheme is available to registered sheep breeders in Himachal Pradesh with a flock of at least 25 sheep. -
How many rams can be allotted to one beneficiary?
One ram per 25 sheep is allotted, with a maximum of two rams per beneficiary. -
What is the subsidy provided under the scheme?
The scheme offers a 60% subsidy on the purchase cost of the ram. -
What are the expected benefits?
Benefits include access to superior breed rams, enhanced wool quality and quantity, increased productivity, and improved economic returns. -
Is selling or castration of the ram allowed?
No, beneficiaries must sign an agreement not to sell or castrate the ram during its breeding life. -
How is the application processed?
Applications are verified by the designated authority based on the guidelines and, if found eligible, subsidized rams are allocated on a first-come-first-serve basis. -
What happens after the application is approved?
Once approved, the breeder receives the subsidized ram(s) and must follow further instructions regarding usage and maintenance.