Assessment of livestock, poultry, and fisheries distribution and management practices in Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh state

Abstract

The livestock, poultry, and fisheries sectors significantly contribute to rural livelihoods, food security, and agricultural sustainability in India. This study provides a comprehensive assessment of their distribution and management practices in Raisen district, Madhya Pradesh. Data were collected using purposive sampling across 10 tehsils, covering 145 households and over 5,300 animals, including cattle, buffaloes, goats, poultry, and fish. Results indicated that traditional husbandry systems prevail, with non-descript cattle, buffaloes, and goats comprising over 70% of the livestock population. Natural mating was the dominant breeding practice, largely due to limited access to artificial insemination in remote areas. Backyard poultry, primarily involving dual purpose breeds like Narmada Nidhi and Sonali, played a vital role in nutritional security and supplemental income for marginal farmers. Fisheries remained underutilized, restricted to small-scale pond-based aquaculture. Livestock housing was mostly temporary (kachcha), with poor hygiene and drainage. Feeding systems relied heavily on open grazing and purchased fodder, while fodder cultivation and concentrate use were minimal, particularly during summer. Veterinary coverage, vaccination, and deworming practices were moderate to low. Socio-economic profiling revealed small landholdings (1-3.27 acres), low annual income (₹14,000-63,700), and active male and female participation in animal husbandry. The NRLM’s Pashu Sakhi initiative has played a crucial role in strengthening village level livestock health and management services. Furthermore, state government schemes such as the Acharya Vidyasagar Gau Samvardhan Yojana, 10+1 Goatery Unit Scheme, Dr. Ambedkar Kamdhenu Yojana, and Backyard Poultry Scheme are contributing to livestock-based livelihood development. The study highlights critical gaps in breed improvement, housing, feeding, veterinary care, and aquaculture utilization. These findings underscore the need for region-specific policy support, infrastructure development, breed conservation efforts, and farmer-centric extension services to enhance productivity, strengthen rural incomes, and conserve livestock biodiversity in Raisen district.