AP govt exempts development charges for livestock activities

Vijayawada: In a significant relief to the livestock sector in the state, the state govt has exempted payment of development and betterment charges for livestock activities such as dairy, sheep/goat rearing, piggery, and poultry, recognising them as an integral part of the rural-urban economy and not as commercial real estate activities. The govt said the move would substantially reduce financial burden on farmers and small entrepreneurs, thereby encouraging expansion and formalisation of livestock enterprises.Further, the govt has announced rationalisation of building licence and permit fee structure for livestock-related activities in urban areas by aligning them with the fee structure applicable in gram panchayats.This intervention aims to ensure parity, improve ease of doing business, and enable the seamless establishment of livestock units in peri-urban and urban areas. The policy is expected to boost productivity, enhance farmer incomes, and strengthen livelihood opportunities while contributing to inclusive and sustainable economic growth in the state.MAUD principal secretary Suresh Kumar said the state govt is committed to creating a facilitative regulatory framework for priority sectors such as livestock. He emphasised that the exemption of charges and rationalisation of fees will significantly reduce compliance costs and encourage the adoption of scientific and organised livestock farming practices.He further noted that this reform aligns with the state's vision of promoting ease of doing business, strengthening rural livelihoods, and integrating livestock development into the broader urban growth strategy.