Day 24 – Q. 3. Livestock rearing in India is a vital livelihood source for rural communities. Examine the economic potential and challenges of promoting animal husbandry as a sustainable livelihood option. (150 words, 10 marks)

Q. 3. Livestock rearing in India is a vital livelihood source for rural communities. Examine the economic potential and challenges of promoting animal husbandry as a sustainable livelihood option. (150 words, 10 marks)

Introduction 

According to the 20th Livestock Census (2019), India has over 535 million livestock,  supporting millions of rural households. Leveraging this sector sustainably offers immense  potential for economic security and inclusive rural growth.  

Body  

Livestock as a Vital Livelihood Source for Rural Communities 

1. Supplementary income and risk buffer: NSSO 77th round show over 70% of rural  households engaged in livestock; it cushions against crop failure and seasonal  unemployment.  
2. Women empowerment and inclusive growth: 70% of livestock care is done by women  (FAO), giving them financial agency and decision-making power.  
3. Smallholder-friendly enterprise: 87% of livestock farmers own less than two hectares,  making it accessible and scalable for marginal farmers.  
4. Region-specific models: Amul dairy cooperatives in Gujarat and Kudumbashree’s goat-rearing in Kerala show successful decentralised rural livelihoods.  

Economic Potential of Animal Husbandry 

1. High value output: Livestock contributes over 30% to the agricultural GVA (2022-23),  growing faster than crop sectors.  
2. Export earnings: India is the world’s largest milk producer and a top exporter of  buffalo meat, earning over $3 billion annually (APEDA).  
3. All-season income flow: Unlike crops, dairy, poultry, and goatery offer daily/weekly  cash flows, reducing rural credit dependency.  
4. Agro-industrial linkages: Growth in sectors like leather, feed, cold chains, and vet  services creates employment and rural industrialisation.  

Challenges in Promoting Animal Husbandry 

1. Low productivity and breed quality: India’s milk yield is half of global average (FAO,  2022), with limited AI and selective breeding coverage.  
2. Disease outbreaks and vet gaps: Only one vet per 5,000 animals (against WHO norm  of 1:400), making disease control difficult.  
3. Feed and fodder shortage: National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) notes a 35% green fodder deficit and overdependence on crop residues.  
4. Climate vulnerability: Heatwaves and floods impact livestock health, water  availability, and increase disease risks in climate-sensitive zones.  

Government Initiatives 

1. Rashtriya Gokul Mission: Promotes indigenous breeds and genetic improvement  through AI and IVF.  
2. Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF): Encourages private  investment in dairy processing and meat value chains.  
3. National Livestock Mission (NLM): Supports entrepreneurship in poultry, sheep, and  fodder cultivation.  
4. Budget 2024 allocation: ₹10,000 crore set aside to boost livestock health  infrastructure and disease surveillance.  

Way Forward 

1. Breed improvement and research: Adopt recommendations from NITI Aayog’s 2023 Livestock Sector Roadmap to enhance genetic potential and resilience. 
2. Veterinary outreach and digitisation: Expand e-Vet services and rural mobile clinics  as piloted in Haryana and Karnataka.  
3. Fodder and feed innovation: Promote hydroponic fodder, dual-purpose crops, and  enforce Fodder Development Programme (2018).  
4. Inclusive cooperatives and FPOs: As suggested by Ashok Dalwai Committee, scale up  women-led dairy and poultry collectives with credit and training.  

Conclusion 

As per the Ashok Dalwai Committee, doubling farmers’ income needs strong livestock  integration. With inclusive reforms and rural investment, animal husbandry can transform  into a sustainable and resilient livelihood pillar for millions.