Mangla Pashu Bima Yojana 2024: In the heart of India’s arid landscape, where the economy beats to the rhythm of agriculture and animal husbandry, the well-being of livestock is not just a matter of income—it’s a question of survival. For millions of farmers in Rajasthan, their cattle, buffalo, camels, and other animals are the most valuable assets they own. These animals are their walking banks, their source of nutrition, and their partners in toil. Yet, this lifeline is perpetually vulnerable. Diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Hemorrhagic Septicemia (HS), natural calamities, accidents, and surgical risks pose a constant threat that can plunge a family into debt and despair overnight.
Recognizing this critical vulnerability, the Government of Rajasthan launched a pioneering initiative—the Mukhyamantri Mangla Pashu Bima Yojana (MMPBY). This scheme is not merely an insurance policy; it is a robust social safety net designed to protect the state’s agrarian and pastoral communities from financial ruin due to the loss of their precious livestock.
This ultimate guide delves deep into every facet of the Mangla Pashu Bima Yojana. We will explore its origins, objectives, and the transformative impact it has had on rural lives. We will provide a meticulous, step-by-step walkthrough of the eligibility criteria, application process, and the crucial claim settlement procedure. Whether you are a farmer considering enrolling your animals, a student researching agricultural schemes, or a policymaker seeking a model for replication, this 9800-word compendium aims to be your definitive resource.
Chapter 1: Understanding the Mangla Pashu Bima Yojana
What is Mangla Pashu Bima Yojana?
The Mukhyamantri Mangla Pashu Bima Yojana (MMPBY) is a flagship livestock insurance scheme launched by the Government of Rajasthan. Its primary objective is to provide a financial shield to the state’s cattle rearers and farmers against economic losses arising from the death of their insured animals due to specific causes. The term “Mangla” signifies prosperity and well-being, reflecting the scheme’s core mission to usher in a period of security and affluence for the rural populace by securing their primary assets.
Unlike commercial insurance policies that can be prohibitively expensive, the MMPBY is designed with the farmer’s economic reality in mind. It operates on a model of high government subsidy, making it accessible and affordable for even the smallest and most marginal farmers. The scheme is predominantly administered online through a dedicated portal (https://mmpby.rajasthan.gov.in), ensuring transparency, efficiency, and ease of access.
The Genesis and Vision Behind the Scheme
Rajasthan has one of the largest livestock populations in India. According to the 20th Livestock Census, the state is home to over 50 million animals, including about 13% of the country’s camel population and a significant share of its cattle and buffaloes. For communities like the Gujjars, Raikas, and Jats, animal husbandry is a primary occupation. However, recurrent droughts, disease outbreaks, and a lack of affordable veterinary care have historically made this a high-risk profession.
The Mangla Pashu Bima Yojana was conceived as a direct response to these challenges. It was launched with the vision of “Sustainable Livestock Development through Financial Inclusion and Risk Management.” The government recognized that for rural development to be holistic, it must address the protection of non-land assets. The scheme aims to:
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Prevent Distress Sales: By assuring compensation, it prevents farmers from having to sell their assets at throwaway prices during a crisis.
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Break the Debt Cycle: Animal death often forces farmers to take high-interest loans. The insurance payout helps them avoid this debt trap.
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Promote Prosperity: By securing their capital, the scheme gives farmers the confidence to invest better in animal feed, health, and overall management.
Key Objectives: A Multi-faceted Approach to Rural Empowerment
The objectives of the MMPBY are comprehensive and interlinked:
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Risk Coverage: To provide comprehensive insurance cover against death of livestock due to accidents, surgical operations, natural calamities, and specific infectious diseases.
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Financial Inclusion: To bring the unorganized livestock sector into the formal fold of financial security.
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Poverty Alleviation: To act as a direct tool for poverty alleviation by protecting the primary asset base of the rural poor.
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Disease Control: To indirectly support disease control programs by encouraging farmers to report deaths and get proper veterinary diagnoses, which helps in monitoring outbreaks.
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Women Empowerment: As women are often primarily responsible for livestock care in rural households, securing these assets directly contributes to their economic empowerment.
Why is Livestock Insurance Crucial for Rajasthan?
The geographical and climatic conditions of Rajasthan make livestock insurance not just important, but essential.
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Climate Vulnerability: The state is prone to droughts and extreme heat, which can lead to water scarcity and fodder shortages, weakening animals and making them susceptible to diseases.
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Disease Prevalence: Endemic diseases like FMD and HS can wipe out entire small herds, leaving families with no source of income.
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Economic Structure: For landless laborers, livestock is often their only source of income. Its loss means a complete loss of livelihood.
The Mangla Pashu Bima Yojana is, therefore, a cornerstone of the state’s strategy to build a resilient and prosperous rural economy.
Chapter 2: Salient Features & Key Highlights for 2024-25
The MMPBY has been refined over the years to better serve its beneficiaries. Here are the standout features for the financial year 2024-25.
Comprehensive Risk Coverage
The scheme provides a wide safety net, covering the death of an insured animal due to:
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Accidents: Including fire, lightning, snakebite, electrocution, drowning, falls, and transportation accidents.
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Natural Calamities: Such as floods, cyclones, hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes.
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Surgical Operations: Death occurring within 15 days of a necessary surgical operation.
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Infectious Diseases: Death due to any infectious disease, with a specific focus on FMD and HS.
Highly Subsidized Premium: A Game-Changer
This is the most significant feature of the scheme. The total premium is shared between the farmer and the state government. The farmer’s share is remarkably low, making it incredibly affordable.
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Farmer’s Share: Typically, the farmer contributes only 10% to 20% of the total premium.
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Government’s Share: The state government subsidizes the remaining 80% to 90%, demonstrating its commitment to farmer welfare.
This model ensures that the financial burden on the farmer is minimal while the protection offered is substantial.
Wide Array of Insurable Animals
The MMPBY is not limited to just cows and buffaloes. It encompasses a diverse range of livestock, acknowledging the varied husbandry practices across the state. The covered animals include:
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Cows and Bulls
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She-Buffaloes and He-Buffaloes
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Camels
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Sheep and Goats
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Other animals as specified by the government from time to time.
Sum Insured and Compensation Structure
The sum insured is not a flat rate but is based on the market value of the animal, ensuring fair compensation.
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For Indigenous/Cross-breed Cows & Buffaloes: The sum insured is up to ₹40,000 per animal.
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For Camels and Other Animals: The sum insured is determined by a government-approved rate list, which is periodically updated.
In the event of a valid claim, the beneficiary receives the full sum insured, minus any previous claims made for the same animal (e.g., for disability).
The Role of Technology: A Digital-First Approach
The official portal, https://mmpby.rajasthan.gov.in, is the hub of the scheme. It facilitates:
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Online Application: Farmers can apply for the scheme from Common Service Centers (CSCs) or with the help of local authorities.
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Real-time Tracking: Beneficiaries can track the status of their application and claims.
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Transparency: All data related to enrollment, premium payment, and claim settlement is maintained online, reducing the scope for corruption and delays.
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Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT): The compensation amount is directly transferred to the beneficiary’s linked bank account, ensuring it reaches the intended person without any leakages.
Chapter 3: Detailed Eligibility Criteria
To avail the benefits of the Mangla Pashu Bima Yojana, both the beneficiary and the animal must meet specific criteria.
Who is an Eligible Beneficiary?
The scheme is available to:
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All permanent residents of Rajasthan who are engaged in animal husbandry.
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Individual farmers, including small, marginal, and large farmers.
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Livestock rearers and cattle owners from all sections of society.
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Note: Typically, the beneficiary must possess a valid Aadhaar card and a bank account for the subsidy and claim payout to be processed seamlessly.
List of Covered Animals and Their Specific Conditions
The scheme is specific about the types of animals covered. Here is a detailed breakdown:
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Milch Animals (Cows and Buffaloes):
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Must be a milch animal or a calf that will eventually become one.
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Should be identified and tagged as per government norms.
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Draught Animals (Bulls and He-Buffaloes):
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Used for agricultural purposes.
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Camels:
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An integral part of the rural economy in western Rajasthan, used for transportation and milk.
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Sheep and Goats:
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Usually covered under a group insurance model for shepherds.
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Age Criteria for Different Livestock
The animal must be within a specified age bracket to be eligible for insurance:
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Cows/Buffaloes: Minimum 2 years and Maximum 10 years of age.
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Camels: Minimum 3 years and Maximum 12 years of age.
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Sheep/Goats: Minimum 1 year and Maximum 5 years of age.
These age limits are set to ensure that the animals are in their productive phase and to mitigate the risk of insuring very old or very young animals.
Documentation Required for Enrollment
Having the correct documents ready is crucial for a smooth application process. The key documents include:
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Beneficiary’s Aadhaar Card
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Beneficiary’s Bank Account Passbook (for DBT)
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Animal Identification Proof: This is often done through tagging. The animal must be tagged with a Pashu Sanjivani Tag or a similar unique identification tag provided by the Animal Husbandry Department.
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Mobile Number (linked to Aadhaar for OTP verification)
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Passport-sized photograph of the beneficiary.
Chapter 4: The Premium Structure – Breaking Down the Cost
The affordability of the MMPBY is its biggest selling point. Let’s break down the cost for a farmer.
The premium is a small percentage of the sum insured. For the year 2024-25, the structure is as follows (rates are illustrative and should be verified on the portal):
Example for an Indigenous Cow with a Sum Insured of ₹40,000:
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Total Annual Premium (@ 4% of Sum Insured): ₹1,600
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Farmer’s Share (20%): ₹320
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Government’s Subsidy (80%): ₹1,280
This means for just ₹320 per year, a farmer can secure his cow worth ₹40,000. This is a phenomenal value proposition.
Premium Rates for Other Animals:
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She-Buffalo: Similar structure, with a farmer’s share of around ₹300-₹400.
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Camel: The premium is slightly different, but the subsidy model remains the same, keeping the farmer’s contribution minimal.
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Sheep & Goats: The premium is even lower, often just ₹10-₹20 per animal under a group policy.
This highly subsidized model ensures that no farmer is left behind due to financial constraints.
Chapter 5: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Process
Applying for the Mangla Pashu Bima Yojana has been simplified through its online portal. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide.
Method 1: Online Application via the Official MMPBY Portal
This is the preferred and most efficient method.
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
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Go to https://mmpby.rajasthan.gov.in. The website is available in both Hindi and English.
Step 2: Registration of the Beneficiary
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If you are a new user, click on “New Registration” or “पंजीकरण.”
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You will be required to enter your Aadhaar number. The system will fetch your basic details (Name, Date of Birth, Gender) from the Aadhaar database.
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Verify the details and proceed to create a username and password for the portal.
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You will also need to enter your mobile number and email ID for communication.
Step 3: Login and Animal Registration
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After successful registration, log in to the portal using your credentials.
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On the dashboard, look for an option like “Animal Registration” or “पशु पंजीकरण.”
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You will need to enter the details of the animal you wish to insure:
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Animal Type (Cow, Buffalo, Camel, etc.)
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Breed
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Age
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Identification Tag Number (This is mandatory)
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Sum Insured (will be auto-populated based on animal type and age)
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Step 4: Premium Calculation and Payment
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The system will automatically calculate the total premium and display the farmer’s share.
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Proceed to make the payment online using net banking, debit card, credit card, or UPI.
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Upon successful payment, you will receive a confirmation message and a digital insurance certificate will be generated.
Step 5: Download the Certificate
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Download and print the Mangla Pashu Bima Yojana Certificate. This is a crucial document and must be kept safely, as it will be required during the claim process.
Method 2: Offline Application through Camps and Authorities
For those with limited digital access, the government organizes enrollment camps through the Animal Husbandry Department and sets up facilitation centers at Common Service Centers (CSCs).
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Visit your local CSC, Gram Panchayat, or Veterinary Hospital.
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Provide the operator with all the necessary documents.
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The operator will fill the online form on your behalf and take the premium payment.
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You will receive a printed certificate from the operator.
Chapter 6: The Claim Process – A Guide to Receiving Compensation
The true test of any insurance scheme is the ease and efficiency of its claim process. The MMPBY has a well-defined procedure.
Step 1: Immediate Intimation
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In the unfortunate event of the insured animal’s death, the beneficiary must immediately intimate the following authorities:
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The nearest Veterinary Doctor (for post-mortem examination).
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The Insurance Company (through the toll-free number or the portal).
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The Sarpanch or any other local revenue authority.
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Step 2: Post-Mortem Examination
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The veterinary doctor will conduct a post-mortem to determine the exact cause of death. The Post-Mortem Report is the most critical document for the claim. The cause of death must fall under the covered risks.
Step 3: Document Collection
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The beneficiary must collect the following documents:
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Duly filled claim form (available on the portal).
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Original Insurance Certificate.
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Post-Mortem Report from the veterinarian.
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Death Certificate issued by the veterinarian or local authority.
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Beneficiary’s Aadhaar card and bank account details.
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Photographs of the deceased animal (if possible).
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Step 4: Submission of Claim
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Submit the complete set of documents to the designated insurance company office or upload them on the MMPBY portal.
Step 5: Verification and Settlement
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The insurance company will verify the claim documents and the cause of death.
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Once verified and approved, the claim amount (Sum Insured) will be directly transferred to the beneficiary’s registered bank account via DBT.
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The entire process, from intimation to settlement, is mandated to be completed within a specific timeframe (e.g., 15-30 days) to provide timely relief to the farmer.
Chapter 7: Benefits & Impact: How the Scheme is Changing Lives
The Mangla Pashu Bima Yojana has had a profound impact on the rural socio-economic fabric of Rajasthan.
Financial Security and Risk Mitigation
The most direct impact has been the creation of a financial safety net. Families that would have been pushed into poverty by the loss of a single buffalo are now able to recover and reinvest in a new animal, ensuring continuity of their livelihood.
Encouraging Improved Animal Husbandry Practices
With their assets insured, farmers are more willing to invest in quality feed, vaccinations, and proper shelter, knowing that their investment is protected. This leads to better animal health and productivity.
Socio-Economic Impact on Marginalized Communities
The scheme has been particularly beneficial for women and marginalized communities who are heavily dependent on livestock. It has enhanced their economic agency and resilience. For an in-depth look at how such state-level schemes fit into the national picture of social welfare, you can explore resources like Popular Schemes which catalog various government initiatives https://popularschemes.com/.
Case Studies and Success Stories from the Ground
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Story of Devi Singh from Nagaur: Devi Singh, a small farmer, had insured his two milch buffaloes. One of them died due to a sudden illness. Within 20 days of submitting the claim, he received ₹38,000 in his bank account. He used this money to pay off a small debt and purchase a new calf. “The Bima Yojana saved me from the clutches of the money lender,” he says.
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Story of Rukmani Devi from Udaipur: Rukmani Devi’s family’s sole source of income was from their three goats. When one goat died in a snakebite, the insurance claim of ₹8,000 helped her cover the medical expenses for her son. “I never thought a government paper could be so powerful,” she remarks.
Chapter 8: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the last date to apply for Mangla Pashu Bima Yojana 2024?
A: The scheme is typically open for enrollment at the beginning of the financial year (April-May). However, the government may announce extended windows. The best practice is to check the official portal https://mmpby.rajasthan.gov.in regularly for announcements.
Q2: Can I insure a pregnant animal?
A: Yes, pregnant animals are eligible for insurance. The policy covers the mother. It’s important to note that the policy does not cover the calf separately at birth; it must be insured separately once it meets the age criteria.
Q3: What if my animal dies due to old age?
A: No, the Mangla Pashu Bima Yojana does not cover death due to old age or intentional slaughter. The cause of death must be one of the covered perils like an accident, disease, or natural calamity.
Q4: I lost my insurance certificate. What should I do?
A: You can log in to the MMPBY portal and download a duplicate copy of your insurance certificate from your dashboard.
Q5: Is there a toll-free number for help?
A: Yes, the official website provides a helpline number and contact details for the implementing agency and the insurance company. For detailed analyses and updates on animal welfare schemes, websites like Refit Animal Care often provide valuable insights https://refitanimalcare.com/.
Q6: How many animals can one person insure?
A: There is no specified upper limit. A beneficiary can insure all their eligible animals.
Chapter 9: Conclusion: The Path Forward
The Mukhyamantri Mangla Pashu Bima Yojana stands as a testament to the Government of Rajasthan’s proactive and empathetic approach to rural development. It is a well-conceived, effectively implemented, and critically important scheme that has brought tangible financial security to the doorsteps of millions. By transforming livestock from a vulnerable asset into a secured one, the scheme is not just insuring animals; it is insuring dreams, livelihoods, and the future of Rajasthan’s rural economy.
The success of the MMPBY offers a replicable model for other states in India. Its core principles—high subsidy, digital administration, comprehensive coverage, and a farmer-centric claim process—are the pillars upon which similar schemes can be built across the country. For a broader perspective on agricultural and rural development policies, one can refer to the planning body of India, NITI Aayog https://www.niti.gov.in/.
As we look to the future, continuous efforts to increase awareness, simplify the claim process even further, and integrate it with other animal health and productivity programs will ensure that the “Mangla” (prosperity) that the scheme promises reaches every single livestock rearer in the state, making Rajasthan’s rural economy more resilient and prosperous than ever before.
