pashupalan : India’s rural economy thrives on agriculture and livestock. Animal husbandry is a crucial source of income for millions of families, particularly in villages and small towns. To encourage this vital sector, the Indian government has introduced several schemes. One such significant initiative is the Pashupalan Loan Yojana, which provides financial assistance to those involved in dairy farming, cattle rearing, goat farming, poultry, and other animal husbandry businesses.
This blog provides a complete overview of the Pashupalan Loan Yojana 2025, covering its objectives, eligibility criteria, benefits, interest rates, documents required, and the application process.
What Is Pashupalan Loan Yojana?
The Pashupalan Loan Yojana is a government-backed scheme aimed at promoting livestock-based livelihoods by providing affordable loans to individuals, especially small and marginal farmers, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and rural entrepreneurs. The loan helps cover the cost of purchasing animals (like cows, buffaloes, goats, hens, etc.), building sheds, buying fodder, and setting up small-scale dairy or poultry farms.
The scheme is part of the government’s broader mission to double farmers’ income and reduce rural poverty.
Key Objectives of Pashupalan Loan Yojana
- To support livestock rearing as a supplementary source of income for farmers.
- To promote self-employment among unemployed youth and rural women.
- To enhance milk production and meat supply for domestic consumption and export.
- To modernize rural animal husbandry infrastructure such as sheds, feed units, and veterinary care.
- To reduce migration from rural areas by creating sustainable employment locally.
Who Can Avail the Loan? (Eligibility Criteria)
The scheme is inclusive and supports a wide section of the rural population. Here are the general eligibility criteria:
- Indian citizens above 18 years of age.
- Must be involved in or willing to start animal husbandry or dairy farming.
- Small and marginal farmers, rural youth, women, SC/ST communities, and SHGs are given preference.
- Should not be a defaulter of any previous bank loan.
- In some cases, applicants may need to provide a basic training certificate in animal husbandry (provided by government institutes).
Loan Amount and Repayment Terms
Under the Pashupalan Loan Yojana, applicants can get loans ranging from ₹25,000 to ₹10 lakhs, depending on the scale of their activity and bank assessment.
Loan slabs may include:
| Activity | Approx. Loan Amount |
|---|---|
| 2 cows/buffalo dairy unit | ₹1 to ₹2 lakhs |
| Goat farming (10–50 goats) | ₹1 to ₹3 lakhs |
| Poultry farming (500–1000 birds) | ₹50,000 to ₹3 lakhs |
| Fodder unit setup | ₹50,000 onwards |
| Large commercial dairy unit | ₹5 to ₹10 lakhs |
Repayment Tenure:
Usually between 3 to 7 years, with flexible EMIs and a grace period for setup.
Interest Rate and Subsidy
- Interest Rate: The loan interest rate ranges from 8% to 12% per annum. However, interest subsidy of 2% to 4% is available under certain central and state-sponsored schemes.
- NABARD and government subsidy: Up to 25%-35% subsidy on total project cost may be available through NABARD or Rural Livelihood Missions, especially for SC/ST, women, and BPL category applicants.
Documents Required
To apply for the Pashupalan Loan Yojana, the following documents are typically needed:
- Aadhaar Card and PAN Card
- Residence Proof (Voter ID/Utility bill/Ration card)
- Passport-size photographs
- Bank account details
- Income certificate
- Caste certificate (if applying under reserved quota)
- Business plan/project report (especially for loans above ₹1 lakh)
- Quotations for animals/equipment
- Training certificate (if applicable)
How to Apply for Pashupalan Loan Yojana 2025
There are two main routes to apply for this scheme:
1. Through Nationalized/Cooperative Banks
- Visit the nearest bank branch (e.g., SBI, PNB, BOI, Gramin Bank).
- Ask for the Pashupalan Loan application form.
- Submit the filled form along with required documents.
- The bank may inspect your farm or proposed location.
- If approved, the loan amount is disbursed in phases.
2. Online Mode (If Available by State Govt or NABARD)
Some states may offer online application facilities through their animal husbandry departments or cooperative development portals. Keep checking the official websites of your state for updates.
Benefits of the Scheme
- Easy and affordable financing for rural animal husbandry ventures.
- Helps farmers become self-reliant and earn regular income.
- Boosts milk and meat production in the country.
- Encourages women entrepreneurship in rural India.
- Promotes better animal care through structured farming.
- Reduces migration to cities by supporting sustainable rural livelihood.
Popular States Offering Pashupalan Loan Benefits
Several states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu have integrated the central government’s support into their local animal husbandry programs. These states actively promote this scheme through Gram Panchayats and Krishi Vigyan Kendras.
Success Stories: Real Impact in Rural India
Many farmers and rural women have benefited from the Pashupalan Loan Yojana. From setting up two-cow dairy farms to expanding into goat rearing and poultry businesses, beneficiaries have reported:
- Steady monthly income of ₹15,000 to ₹30,000
- Reduced dependence on rain-fed farming
- Employment generation for family members
- Access to milk cooperatives and state milk boards for selling produce
Conclusion: A Step Towards Rural Prosperity
The Pashupalan Loan Yojana 2025 is a progressive step in empowering farmers and rural youth by providing them with the tools to start their own livestock businesses. It not only helps boost India’s milk and meat production but also creates long-term sustainable employment.
If you are from a farming family or interested in animal husbandry, this scheme could be your golden opportunity to begin an entrepreneurial journey in the agri-allied sector.