Delayed by a year due to tech glitches, livestock census to be out after June

NEW DELHI: The 21st Livestock Census report, which was expected to be made public late last year, is likely to be released after June, as technical glitches in data compilation and validation have delayed its finalisation.

An official said data validation was in process. "This is expected to be completed by June. The report can be released after June," he said.



Livestock Census is an enumeration of domesticated livestock species and poultry birds that provides species-wise and state/UT-wise livestock population including cattle (cows), buffaloes, sheep and goats. The exercise is done every five years. It provides govt with updated data on the livestock population that helps policymakers to address issues like disease control, breed improvement and rural livelihoods.

The 21st Livestock Census exercise was launched on Oct 25, 2024. It covered over 30 crore households across all states and UTs by Feb last year. The exercise also covered nomadic communities and pastoralists, ensuring that the diversity of India's livestock practices was captured. The exercise was entirely digital, utilising mobile apps and web applications.