Livestock-Based Natural Farming as a Boon for Changing Soil Microbiology

Abstract

Livestock has been an integral component of farming systems, especially in small land holder farmers, by providing manure, draught power, and a sustainable source of organic inputs. The rising concerns of soil degradation, declining fertility and microbial imbalance under conventional farming practices have brought renewed attention to natural farming systems that integrate livestock resources. Livestock-based natural farming (LBNF) utilizes cow dung, urine, milk derivatives and farmyard manure as essential bio-inputs for enriching soil microbial life. Preparations such as Jeevamrutha and Beejamrutha, derived from livestock products, act as microbial inoculants, stimulating beneficial bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes in the soil. This review discusses the role of livestock in natural farming, its impact on soil microbiology, nutrient cycling, enzyme activity and disease suppression. Case studies, comparative insights, challenges and future prospects are presented to highlight how livestock-based natural farming can be a boon for sustaining soil health and ecological resilience.