The Centre is mulling setting up rendering units across the country in mission mode for safe disposal of dead animals, a neglected area that also holds promise of creating new jobs.
The proposal was presented to Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the recent national conference on doubling farmers’ income, organised by the Agriculture Ministry.
It also fits in the government plans to create new jobs, an area where it has slipped and is often target of Opposition attack.
According to officials, these rendering units have the potential to generate 50,000 new jobs across the country.
An estimated 20 million animals die a natural death every year, officials said adding that the lack of adequate facilities to deal with such instances leads to environmental pollution and a health hazard.
Animal rendering plants usually operate in conjunction with slaughter houses. But such plants are used to process fatty animal tissue into edible fats and proteins. Independent rendering units often handle several raw materials and often deal with inedible products such as tallow and grease which are used in livestock and poultry feed, soap and production of fatty acids.
Primary sector
The proposal presented to the Prime Minister stressed on setting up independent rendering units across the country on mission mode basis.
Proper disposal of dead animals would also prevent spread of diseases to humans and animals, besides helping curb environmental pollution.
The Department of Animal Husbandry has also sought greater fund allocation in the Union Budget considering that the sector contributes 6.52% to the GDP.┬аIt also made a strong pitch to be addressed as an independent primary sector and not as a subsidiary to agriculture. (DH)
