Hisar (Haryana): In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Haryana government is now issuing unique identification numbers to cattle, akin to the Aadhaar card which Indian citizens possess.
Cattle in Haryana get their own UID number Rajendra Vats, the deputy director of the state's animal husbandry and dairying department, informed that cattle are being issued a unique identification number in the form of an Animal Registration Certificate (ARC).
"This pilot project has been started only in Haryana. If it is successful, it may be implemented across the country," he said.
Vats said that the main objective of the scheme is to register all cattle, which will make it easier for livestock owners to avail insurance and other loans.
How are the animals tagged?
Upon registration a unique identification number will be issued by the animal husbandry department. Cows, buffalo, sheep, goats, and pigs are eligible for registration.
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A plastic tag is then placed in the ear of the animal, which carries the 12-digit unique identification number, information like the breed, age, and the details of the owner along with the mobile number. The main advantage is that all information is being uploaded online, which will make it easier for owners to access details while availing loans or insurance.
Will make vaccination easier
Officials believe the ear tags will also do away with the discrepancies in the vaccination of animals, as proper record of vaccination will be maintained based on the ID number. If vaccination is done properly, it will help in the prevention of diseases among animals, which will in turn benefit the farmers.
Will help in getting insurance and loan
In Haryana, the government also provides loans to farmers who raise animals. Livestock owners will find it easier to get animals insured with the ID number and also take a loan.
So far, animals like buffalo and cows are being insured by the government for Rs 100, while insurance for sheep and goats costs Rs 25.
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