Intervention points for small ruminant development in India: Insight from a field level survey

Abstract

The present study was undertaken to identify the intervention points for small ruminant sector development, assess socio-economic status of small ruminant farmers as well as reach of institutions and technology in small ruminant development. The study was undertaken by using field level information collected through primary survey from 400 farmers of Andhra Pradesh (undivided) and Rajasthan. The technologies with regard to vaccination have exhibited larger level of adoption compared to other technologies. The most important constraints faced by farmers were with regard to veterinary care, feed and fodder and live animal marketing. The institutional sources, as epitomized by veterinarians of state government turned out to be the most important source of treatment (67%). Self-treatment without consultation is practiced by almost 100% farmers. Farmers heavily depend on the common pastures for feed and fodder requirement. Penetration of insurance was very low. The credit absorption was only about 7%, and that too from money lenders. Another major constraint was with respect to marketing systems- the live animal markets are highly under developed- the farmers continue to rely on traditional market channels. The study points to the need to improve efficacy of institutional mechanisms including reforming livestock markets, strengthening veterinary care systems with improved man power, efforts to conserve pasture land and improve its productivity, and, channeling greater credit and insurance coverage for the small ruminant sector.