Jharkhand, a state rich in tribal heritage and natural resources, has a significant agrarian economy where animal husbandry and dairy development play a crucial role. This sector provides livelihood opportunities for a large portion of the population, particularly in rural areas, and contributes to food security and nutritional needs. However, the sector faces various challenges that need to be addressed to unlock its full potential.
Current Status and Importance:
Livelihood and Income: A majority of Jharkhand's rural households depend on livestock for their livelihoods. Animal husbandry provides supplementary income, employment, and acts as a safety net during crop failures.
Nutritional Security: Milk and other livestock products are crucial for meeting the nutritional needs of the population, especially in areas where malnutrition is prevalent.
Economic Contribution: The sector contributes significantly to the state's GDP and provides raw materials for various industries.
Cattle and Buffaloes: These are the primary livestock in Jharkhand, reared for milk, meat, and draught purposes.
Other Livestock: Goats, pigs, and poultry are also reared, contributing to income generation and nutritional diversity.
Government Initiatives and Schemes:
The Jharkhand government, in collaboration with the central government, has implemented various schemes to promote animal husbandry and dairy development:
National Livestock Mission (NLM): This centrally sponsored scheme aims to improve livestock productivity, provide infrastructure, and enhance market access for livestock products.
Jharkhand State Milk Federation: The federation works towards promoting dairy development through cooperative societies, providing technical support, and marketing milk and milk products.
Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme (DEDS): This scheme provides financial assistance and training to individuals and groups for setting up dairy farms.
Artificial Insemination and Veterinary Services: The government provides artificial insemination services and veterinary healthcare to improve livestock health and productivity.
Fodder Development: Initiatives are taken to promote fodder cultivation and ensure the availability of quality feed for livestock.
Challenges and Opportunities:
Despite the potential and efforts, the sector faces several challenges:
Low Productivity: The productivity of livestock in Jharkhand is relatively low compared to the national average due to factors like poor breed quality, inadequate nutrition, and lack of scientific management practices.
Lack of Infrastructure: There is a shortage of infrastructure like veterinary hospitals, artificial insemination centers, and marketing facilities, especially in remote areas.
Disease Outbreaks: Livestock are susceptible to various diseases, which can cause significant economic losses.
Climate Change: Changing climatic conditions, including droughts and floods, impact livestock production and fodder availability.
Limited Market Access: Small farmers often face challenges in accessing markets for their livestock products.
However, these challenges also present opportunities for growth and development:
Breed Improvement: Introducing high-yielding breeds and promoting crossbreeding can significantly enhance productivity.
Technology Adoption: Utilizing technology for breeding, disease surveillance, and farm management can improve efficiency.
Value Addition: Processing and value addition of livestock products can increase profitability and create employment opportunities.
Fodder Management: Promoting sustainable fodder production practices and utilizing crop residues can address feed scarcity.
Market Linkages: Strengthening market linkages and promoting collectivization can ensure better prices for farmers.