Government Schemes

UP Gopalak Yojana — Dairy Farming Loan for Unemployed

UP Gopalak Yojana gives loans of ₹1.80–9 lakh at subsidised rates to unemployed youth for starting a dairy of 5–20 cows or buffaloes. Apply at upagripardarshi.gov.in.

CitizenNest Editorial Team4 min read
⚠️
Disclaimer: This is an independent informational guide. We are NOT affiliated with any government body. Always verify on official websites.

What is UP Gopalak Yojana?

Mukhyamantri Gopalak Yojana is an Uttar Pradesh government scheme to promote dairy farming as a livelihood for unemployed youth. The scheme provides bank loans for purchasing 5 to 20 milch animals (cows or buffaloes) with a subsidised bank loan + government subsidy.

The scheme is implemented through banks with the Animal Husbandry Department, UP.


Key Benefits

Scale Loan Amount Bank Loan Govt Subsidy
5 animals ₹1.80 lakh 100% (bank) ₹10,000 per animal (max ₹40K total)
10 animals ₹3.60 lakh 100% (bank) ₹10,000 per animal
15 animals ₹5.40 lakh 100% (bank) ₹10,000 per animal
20 animals ₹9.00 lakh 100% (bank) ₹10,000 per animal

Subsidy of ₹40,000 (for 5 animals — 4 animals × ₹10,000) is given in the second year after successful first year operation.


Who is Eligible?

You ARE eligible if:

  • You are an unemployed youth — age 18–40 years (approx.)
  • You are a permanent resident of Uttar Pradesh
  • You have land available (own/leased) for keeping the animals and constructing a shed
  • Your family income is within limits (check current criteria with DPO)

SC/ST and BPL candidates get additional priority


Documents Required

  1. Aadhaar Card — identity
  2. Land records — proof of land for animal shed
  3. Caste certificate — SC/ST priority
  4. Bank account details — Aadhaar-linked
  5. Photograph
  6. Application form — from District Animal Husbandry Officer

How to Apply — Step by Step

Step 1 — Contact District Animal Husbandry Officer

Visit the District Animal Husbandry Officer (DAHO) in your district. Ask for the Gopalak Yojana application form.

Step 2 — Submit Application

Fill the form with:

  • Personal details and land information
  • Number of animals to be purchased (5/10/15/20)
  • Bank preference

Submit to DAHO office.

Step 3 — DAHO Verification

The officer verifies your land, documents, and applicant background.

Step 4 — Bank Loan Processing

DAHO forwards your application to the selected bank. Bank:

  • Appraises the dairy project
  • Sanctions the loan
  • Disburses to purchase animals

Step 5 — Purchase Animals

Buy high-yield milch animals (specified in the scheme — should be from authorized breeding farms or markets).

Step 6 — Subsidy Release (Year 2)

After successfully operating the dairy for the first year:

  • DAHO verifies the animals are alive and the dairy is functional
  • Subsidy (₹40,000 for 5-animal unit) is released to your bank account

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I choose any breed of cow or buffalo?

The scheme recommends high-milk-yielding breeds — Sahiwal, Gir, Murrah buffalo, etc. The DAHO will guide you on approved breeds for the scheme.

2. I have 10 animals already. Can I get a loan to expand?

The scheme is primarily for new units. Expansion may be possible — check with the DAHO. New applicants with no existing dairy get priority.

3. What is the repayment period for the loan?

Typically 5 years (including 1-year moratorium). Confirm with the lending bank as terms vary.

4. I don't have land for a shed. Can I still apply?

You need at least a small plot to construct the animal shed. Leased land may be accepted. Without land, the project is not feasible — this is a key requirement.

5. Is there an insurance for animals under this scheme?

Animal insurance is available separately under the Rashtriya Pashu Bima Yojana or state insurance schemes. The Gopalak Yojana itself does not include animal insurance, but you should insure your animals after purchase.


Purpose Link
UP Agriculture/AH portal upagripardarshi.gov.in
UP Animal Husbandry Dept animalhusb.upsdc.gov.in
NABARD (dairy financing) nabard.org

Get instant exam alerts on Telegram

SSC, UPSC, NEET, JEE results — posted the moment they drop. Join 100% free.

Join @citizennest