Evaluating the economic impact of mini dairy scheme: Insights from per capita income analysis

The Mini Dairy Scheme aims to boost rural incomes by promoting small-scale dairy farming through financial support, training, and resources. This study compares the socio-economic characteristics and income-generating factors of beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries A total of 100 respondents were selected randomly of Y.S.R. Kadapa district. Out of which 50 were beneficiaries and 50 were non- beneficiaries of the scheme. Data were collected from veterinary dispensaries and structured interviews with beneficiaries to assess socio-economic conditions, costs, and returns. A regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the impact of variables like agriculture, livestock farming, education, family structure, and employment on per capita income. For beneficiaries, significant factors influencing income included farm labor, gender, secondary education, family size, landholding, and employment (R² = 0.32). Among non-beneficiaries, farm labor, age, gender, family size, landholding, and secondary education played a key role (R² = 0.37). These results highlight differences in how the scheme affects the livelihoods of participants compared to non-participants.