The Union government is reviewing Rajasthan’s proposal to establish a camel milk powder plant, a move driven by the growing global demand for camel-derived dairy products. Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan Singh, announced the development during a meeting of the consultative parliamentary committee held in Jaisalmer last week. He underlined the cultural and economic significance of camels in Rajasthan, describing them as an integral part of the state’s rural economy.
The proposed plant is expected to unlock new markets for Rajasthan’s camel herders and support the state’s broader ambitions of emerging as a national leader in animal husbandry and dairy production. With niche and value-added dairy categories gaining traction internationally, camel milk powder could position Rajasthan as a specialised player in premium dairy exports.
Mission Utkarsh Strengthens Local Livestock Productivity
The committee meeting also reviewed progress under Mission Utkarsh, a government initiative aimed at improving livestock genetics and productivity in Jaisalmer, one of India’s aspirational districts. Under the programme, 52 Pashu Maitri have been trained to support artificial insemination services and assist in enhancing milk yields. The mission intends to increase farmers’ incomes by fostering scientific breeding and better reproductive management.
State Government Seeks Stronger Support for Dairy Expansion
Rajasthan’s Animal Husbandry Minister, Joraram Kumawat, emphasised the need for higher farmer participation in livestock activities to boost incomes and strengthen rural self-reliance. He outlined the state’s vision to expand its dairy network to village level by 2030, supported by advanced milk processing infrastructure and national-level branding initiatives.
Kumawat called for substantial central assistance to upgrade veterinary infrastructure, including ₹2,297 crore for new hospitals and sub-centres. He also requested 10,000 doses of high-quality Gir cattle semen from Brazil to accelerate breed improvement and sought support for wider deployment of the Lumpy Pro vaccine to protect animal health.
A Strategic Moment for Rajasthan’s Dairy Future
The Centre’s consideration of the camel milk powder plant marks an important milestone for Rajasthan’s livestock sector. If approved, the project could diversify the state’s dairy portfolio, empower camel herders, and position India as a competitive supplier in the global camel milk market. Coupled with Mission Utkarsh and ongoing infrastructure proposals, Rajasthan is pushing for a more resilient, value-driven dairy ecosystem aligned with national livestock development goals.
