Sverdlovsk pumps 4.8B rubles into dairy farming after breeder contest success

The Sverdlovsk region has announced a major funding boost for its agricultural sector, with over 4.8 billion rubles allocated for 2026. Nearly half of this amount will support dairy farming subsidies, reflecting the region’s growing focus on livestock productivity. The move follows a recent professional skills contest that highlighted the expertise of local cattle breeders. The 'Honoring the Worker' contest took place at Yekaterinburg’s Uralplemcenter, bringing together 16 specialists from across the Sverdlovsk region. Participants competed in three key areas: managing automated record-keeping systems, conducting breeding and genetic selection, and completing written assessments.

Olga Kopteva, a specialist from the Sukholozhsky state farm, claimed first place as the region’s best breeder. Anna Melnikova, representing the Plamya rural cooperative in Alapayevsk, secured second place, while Galina Pavlova from Kalininsky LLC in the Pyshminsky district took third. The contest comes as the region’s dairy productivity has seen significant growth. Over the past 15 years, milk yield per cow has risen sharply, from 5 to 9.3 tons annually. This increase aligns with Russia’s broader 'Food Security' national project, where improved cattle productivity plays a crucial role.

The 4.8 billion ruble funding package will reinforce Sverdlovsk’s dairy sector, with 47% directed toward subsidies. The investment aims to build on recent gains in milk production and support skilled breeders like those recognised in the contest. These measures are set to further strengthen the region’s contribution to national food security targets.