Mobile App for Livestock Census

Context: The Animal Husbandry Department has developed a mobile app named “21st Livestock Census” to carry out a comprehensive survey of livestock across India.

• The app’s purpose is to gather updated livestock data to help formulate the next government action plan and contribute to the National Indicator Framework Progress Report for Sustainable Development Goals.
• The survey will collect data on various livestock species, including cattle, oxen, buffalo, cows, goats, sheep, chickens, dogs, horses, pigs, ducks, and emus raised by livestock farmers.
• Additionally, the census will gather information on farmers, livestock age, vaccination status, and the role of women in livestock rearing.

Livestock Census

• The Livestock Census, initiated in 1919, is conducted every five years.
• It is carried out by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying in collaboration with State Governments and Union Territory Administrations.

Observations from the 20th Livestock Census

• Total Livestock Population: The census recorded a total livestock population of 536 million, marking a 4.6% increase from the 2012 census.
• State with the Highest Livestock Population: Uttar Pradesh was noted for having the highest livestock population.