AI SummaryEstablishment of Regional Semen Production Laboratory and Semen Bank for Sheep and Goat is a component of the National Livestock Mission's Sub-mission on Breed Development of Livestock and Poultry. The Central Government provides financial support to set up regional frozen goat semen and liquid sheep semen laboratories so that genetic quality, productivity, and breeding outcomes improve across the country.
The scheme has been running since the financial year 2014-15, and the National Livestock Mission was realigned from 2021-22 to widen its reach. Fresh updated guidelines for the mission were circulated by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying in February 2026, and more regional semen stations are coming up across states. In June 2026, the Prime Minister inaugurated a Regional Goat Semen Production Laboratory and Semen Bank at Haringhata in Nadia, West Bengal, built under this scheme with an investment of about ₹6.50 crore to support the Black Bengal Goat.
Establishment of Regional Semen Production Laboratory and Semen Bank for Sheep and Goat - Highlights
Under this activity, the Central Government assists states to set up a Frozen Semen production laboratory for goats and a liquid semen production laboratory for sheep at a strategic regional location. The regional semen station works as a semen bank for frozen goat semen and supplies elite semen to the neighbouring states in the region.
The department has developed Minimum Standards for Sheep and Goat Semen Processing (MSP), and every project proposal must follow these standards. The laboratories produce and distribute superior male germplasm through artificial insemination so that non-descript breeds can be upgraded and inbreeding among sheep and goat breeds comes down.
The scheme targets genetic improvement of indigenous descript breeds through selective breeding, genetic upgradation of non-descript breeds through cross-breeding with high genetic rams or bucks, and reduction of negative selection and inbreeding through propagation of superior male germplasm.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Establishment of Regional Semen Production Laboratory and Semen Bank for Sheep and Goat |
| Launched | 2014-15 under National Livestock Mission |
| Target Beneficiary | State Livestock Agencies |
| Funding Pattern | 60:40 (General States), 90:10 (NER and Himalayan States), 100% (UTs) |
| Grant-in-aid | Up to ₹4 crore plus ₹30 lakh one-time |
| Benefit Type | One-time grant-in-aid |
| Nodal Ministry | Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying |
Benefits
The scheme offers a one-time capital grant so that a state can build its semen production and banking facility from the ground up. The listed support points are given below.
- One-time grant-in-aid of up to ₹4,00,00,000 (₹4 crore) as the Central Share for construction of the semen laboratory, maintenance of breeding bucks and rams, sourcing of locally available high genetic merit animals, and processing of semen.
- An additional one-time grant of ₹30,00,000 for initial procurement of consumables, medicines, and chemicals required for the first time processing of semen.
- Standardized funding ratios based on state classification, so general states get 60:40, North East and Himalayan states get 90:10, and Union Territories get 100% support.
- No regular support is given for running the semen station; the regional semen bank must generate its own resources to meet day to day operating expenses.
Eligibility
Only State Livestock Agencies are eligible to apply under this scheme. Individual farmers or private firms cannot apply directly. The applying state must send an Expression of Interest that shows it can produce semen and supply it to the other states in the region. The laboratory must also follow the Minimum Standards for Sheep and Goat Semen Processing (MSP) laid down by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
Application Process
The application is made through the official National Livestock Mission portal. The steps are given below.
STEP 1 - Visit the official National Livestock Mission portal and click on the apply link for the relevant activity.
STEP 2 - Choose the correct login category, that is Government or Other Agencies, and log in to the portal.
STEP 3 - Verify the mobile number using an OTP to open the online application dashboard.
STEP 4 - Fill in all the required fields in the application form and upload the supporting documents in the specified format and size.
STEP 5 - Tick the Declaration and Authorization box, fill in the date and place, and submit the application. The progress can be tracked later through the Track Status feature on the portal.
Evaluation Process
The State Implementing Agency (SIA) first screens the proposal and recommends eligible entities for financing. The proposal then goes to the bank or financial institution for loan approval. Once the loan is sanctioned, the State Level Executive Committee (SLEC) recommends the project to the Central Government. The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying approves the subsidy, and funds are released through SIDBI to the lending bank, which credits the subsidy to the eligible entity.
Documents
Applicants need to arrange the following project and entity documents while applying.
Project Documents:
- Detailed Project Report (DPR) with cost estimates, means of finance, recurring cost, and net income.
- Land ownership proof, lease deed, or rent agreement.
- Photographs of the project site.
- Proof of the applicant's share in the project and an Expression of Interest from the state.
Entity Documents:
- PAN Card and GST registration certificate.
- Registration or incorporation certificates and partnership deed, if applicable.
- Audited financial statements and income tax returns for the last three years, if applicable.
- Bank account details with a cancelled cheque and bank statement for the last six months.
References
- National Livestock Mission - Official Page
- National Livestock Mission Guidelines
- Revised National Livestock Mission Guidelines 2026
FAQ's
What is the aim of the regional semen laboratory?
The aim is to genetically improve indigenous sheep and goat breeds through selective breeding, upgrade non-descript breeds by cross-breeding with high genetic rams or bucks, and reduce inbreeding by spreading superior male germplasm through artificial insemination.
Who can apply for this scheme?
Only State Livestock Agencies can apply for this scheme. The state must send an Expression of Interest and follow the Minimum Standards for Sheep and Goat Semen Processing.
Is there regular operating money under this scheme?
No. The scheme gives financial support only for setting up the laboratory and the first time processing of semen. The regional semen station is expected to generate its own resources to cover recurring running costs.
Can the grant be used to buy land?
No. The grant cannot be used for purchasing land, working capital, personal vehicles, or rent and lease of land.
Who monitors the project after it is built?
The State Implementing Agency follows up the project for two years after completion to check its operation and sustainability.