📘 IAS Prelims 2025 — GS-II Q.30 | Classroom Explanation

📌 Question

Q.30) Consider the following statements about the Rashtriya Gokul Mission:

Statement I: It is important for the upliftment of rural poor, as majority of low producing indigenous animals are with small and marginal farmers and landless labourers.

Statement II: It was initiated to promote indigenous cattle and buffalo rearing and conservation in a scientific and holistic manner.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) I only
(b) II only
(c) Both I and II
(d) Neither I nor II

✅ Correct Answer: (c)

🧑‍🏫 Classroom Explanation

This question tests knowledge of government schemes related to agriculture and animal husbandry, with emphasis on inclusive rural development and indigenous resource conservation.

🔍 Key Concept: Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM)

• A Centrally Sponsored Scheme
• Implemented by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying
• Focuses on development and conservation of indigenous bovine breeds
• Aligns livelihood support with genetic improvement and sustainability

🔍 Statement-wise Analysis

✅ Statement I: Correct

• Over 80% of low-producing indigenous cattle are owned by:

• Small farmers
• Marginal farmers
• Landless labourers

• Improving productivity of these animals:

• Directly enhances rural incomes
• Supports nutritional security
• Strengthens dairy-based livelihoods

➡️ Hence, the scheme is crucial for upliftment of the rural poor.

✅ Statement II: Correct

• One of the core objectives of RGM is to:

• Promote indigenous cattle and buffalo rearing
• Ensure scientific and holistic conservation

• This includes:

• Use of high genetic merit bulls
• Expansion of artificial insemination services
• Breed improvement through advanced technologies

➡️ Hence, Statement II is correct.

🧮 Logical Elimination (UPSC Style)

• Statement I → True
• Statement II → True

➡️ Correct option: (c)

🎯 Final Answer

✅ Correct Answer: (c) Both I and II

📦 Info Box — Extra Points (Prelims Value Add)

• RGM supports:

• Gokul Grams (integrated cattle development centres)
• Breed conservation of native bovines
  • Enhances:
• Milk productivity
• Farmers’ income
• Sustainable livestock management

• Complements schemes like:

• National Livestock Mission
• Dairy Infrastructure Development initiatives

🔗 Bridge Points (Future Questions)

• Indigenous breeds vs exotic breeds
• Artificial insemination and genetic improvement
• Role of animal husbandry in doubling farmers’ income

📍 GS Mapping

GS Paper II
Subject: Governance / Social Sector
Theme: Government Schemes — Agriculture & Animal Husbandry
Nature: Static + Current Affairs