Rayagada: The cattle population in Rayagada district is steadily declining. According to livestock census data collected in 2021 and 2025, the number of cows, bulls, buffaloes, and oxen has fallen by nearly 45,000 within five years. However, many cattle rearers are not ready to accept the 2025 figures, claiming that the department’s data is inaccurate.
One of the most worrying signs is seen in Kashipur block, which has the highest cattle population in the district. A milk chilling centre with a capacity of 1,000 litres is receiving only around 150 litres of milk daily.
In 2021, the district had around 2.47 lakh cattle. By 2025, the number reportedly dropped to 2,02,082. In Kashipur block alone, the cattle population declined from 64,162 in 2021 to around 40,000 in 2025. Local cattle farmers say such a huge decline is difficult to believe.
Another point of debate is that the 2021 census was conducted by a private agency, while the 2025 survey was carried out by the Animal Husbandry Department.
Department records show that nearly half of the district’s livestock are milch cows. Officials say the fall in milk production also indicates a decline in cattle numbers. OMFED milk chilling centres across the district are currently collecting only 6,000 to 6,500 litres of milk daily.
Several chilling centres are operating far below their capacity. In Gudari block, a 3,000-litre centre receives only 500 litres daily. Padmapur receives 1,500 litres against a capacity of 3,000 litres, while Gunupur gets only 600 litres despite a 2,000-litre capacity. Rayagada block, which has a 7,000-litre capacity centre, receives just 1,600 litres of milk daily.
ADVO Dr. Naresh Chandra Jena said local farmers are no longer interested in keeping breeding bulls, which is affecting cattle reproduction. He also pointed out that grazing land in the district has reduced significantly.
