NEWS

• The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying plans to launch the National Camel Sustainability Initiative (NCSI) to halt the decline in India’s camel population.
• Draft policy prepared in consultation with FAO circulated for public comments on September 29, 2025.

HIGHLIGHTS

Declining Camel Population

• Nearly 90% concentrated in Rajasthan and Gujarat.
• Camels receive less focus under mainstream livestock schemes compared to cattle, buffaloes, and poultry.

Objectives of NCSI

• Restore economic and ecological significance of camels.
• Promote conservation, breeding, and sustainable livelihoods.
• Improve transport infrastructure and e-market mechanisms for camel trade.
• Raise awareness through campaigns, school textbooks, rural fairs, and World Camel Day (June 22).
• Review Rajasthan Camel Act to balance conservation and livelihood rights.

 Coordinated Action

• Ministries involved: Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Environment, Rural Development, Tourism.
• Integration with State governments to ensure multi-dimensional strategy.

 Links with National Livestock Mission (NLM)

• NLM implemented since 2021 for livestock productivity and entrepreneurship.
• NLM-EDP: 50% capital subsidy (up to ₹50 lakh) for breeding farms of poultry, sheep, goat, pig, horse, camel, donkey, and feed/fodder units.

Significance of Camels

• Cultural: Integral to desert livelihoods and heritage in Rajasthan and Gujarat.
• Economic: Transportation, milk, wool, tourism, and agro-based enterprises.
• Ecological: Adapted to arid ecosystems, contributes to sustainable land use.