"The state is importing mutton and poultry worth more than Rs 1 billion annually, which can be saved once the local production is increased," Mr Ruhulla said.

According to Moneycontrol.com, he said the state government is encouraging the youth for setting up sheep, goat rearing farms by way of providing financial incentive besides expert advice.

He added that there is a need to reach out to people and motivate them for establishing units in this sector. He called upon the officers to adopt latest breeding technology for increasing mutton and poultry production.

Mr Ruhullah said that efforts are being initiated to increase milk production in the state, although state is able to meet the local needs but the need of the hour is to take it to the point where the state can export or make byproducts from it.

The minister asked officers to ensure that the cases sent to banks for financing are cleared within a time bound manner. In case there is any difficulty in getting cases cleared from the bank, the same should be brought into the notice of higher authorities who will take up matter with the bank authorities, he said.

Describing Sheep and Animal Husbandry as the most commercially viable sector, the Minister said that educated youth need to be motivated towards it. He said this will not only provide employment to them but also create avenues for others to earn their livelihood.