National Camel Sustainability Initiative Proposal

National Camel Sustainability Initiative (NCSI) - Key Highlights

Background and Purpose

• The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying is considering the launch of the National Camel Sustainability Initiative (NCSI).
• The initiative aims to address the declining camel population in India, which has drastically reduced from about 11 lakh in 1977 to approximately 2,52,956 as per the 20th Livestock Census (2019).

Camel Population Decline

• Population statistics:
  • 1977: 11 lakh camels
  • 2013: ~4 lakh camels
  • 2019: 2,52,956 camels
• Major camel populations are found in:
  • Rajasthan: 2.12 lakh (predominantly breeds like Bikaneri and Jaisalmeri)
  • Gujarat: 27,620 (Kharai breed)
  • Other states: Haryana (5,154), Punjab (120), Uttar Pradesh (2,424), Madhya Pradesh (1,753), Ladakh (298).

Reasons for Decline

• Mechanisation of agriculture has diminished the utility of camels.
• Cultural shifts, particularly within the Raika community, which traditionally reared camels, leading to generational abandonment of camel husbandry.

Proposed Initiatives Under NCSI

1. Promotion of Camel Milk: Focus on camel rearing for milk production due to its nutritional benefits.

   • Camel milk is marketed by Amul, and there's potential for greater demand through awareness campaigns.
   • Addressing myths surrounding camel milk consumption to boost acceptance.

2. Policy Recommendations:

   • Need for a centralized, coordinated policy for camel conservation and sustainable management.
   • Proposed reforms include:
     • Amendments to the Rajasthan Camel Act to balance conservation with community livelihood rights.
     • Establishing safe inter-state trade mechanisms and enhancing transport infrastructure.

3. Cross-Sectoral Coordination: Engage various ministries such as:

   • Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying
   • Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
   • Ministry of Rural Development
   • Ministry of Tourism
   • State governments

4. Camel Awareness Campaign:

   • Integrate camel themes into educational curricula and significant public events.
   • Encourage nationwide recognition of World Camel Day on June 22 to promote camel culture and conservation.

Economic Implications and Strategic Importance

• The decline of the camel population affects agricultural practices and livelihoods in semi-arid regions.
• Promoting camel products could enhance local economies, especially in states like Rajasthan and Gujarat where camels are integral to livelihoods.

Governance and Future Directions

• The draft policy highlights the lack of focused attention and funding for camel-related programs within mainstream livestock development initiatives.
• Emphasis on a national strategy to enhance the camel economy and support the sustainability of camel herders.

Conclusion

The National Camel Sustainability Initiative seeks to rejuvenate the camel population in India through a multi-pronged approach emphasizing conservation, milk production, and awareness, ultimately aiming to restore the socio-economic balance for camel-dependent communities.