Animal husbandry plays a vital role in India’s agriculture and rural economy. This detailed blog explains the meaning, importance, and different types of animal husbandry practices like dairy farming, poultry farming, goat rearing, and sheep farming. Understand how animal husbandry provides food, employment, and additional income for farmers while ensuring sustainable agricultural growth. With insights into challenges, government schemes, and the future of livestock farming in India, this guide is ideal for students, farmers, and entrepreneurs exploring opportunities in animal-based farming.
Introduction
India is primarily an agricultural country
where nearly 60% of the population depends directly or indirectly on
agriculture. Animal husbandry, the branch of agriculture that deals with the
care, breeding, and management of animals, plays a crucial role in
strengthening the rural economy. In India, livestock farming provides not only
food in the form of milk, meat, and eggs but also employment, raw materials,
and an additional source of income for millions of farmers.
Animal husbandry is deeply rooted in Indian culture and traditions. From the
sacred cow to modern dairy cooperatives, the sector has evolved tremendously
over the years. In this guide, we will explore the meaning, importance, types,
challenges, and future scope of animal husbandry in India.
What is Animal Husbandry?
Animal husbandry refers to the branch of
agriculture that involves the breeding, rearing, and management of livestock.
It includes providing proper food, shelter, and healthcare to animals, with the
aim of increasing their productivity and ensuring the welfare of both animals
and humans.
In India, animal husbandry covers dairy farming, poultry, sheep and goat
rearing, piggery, fisheries, and apiculture (beekeeping). This sector is a
backbone of rural livelihood, especially for small and marginal farmers.
Importance of Animal Husbandry in India
1. Employment Generation – Provides jobs to
millions in rural areas, especially women.
2. Food Supply – Source of milk, meat, eggs, and honey for nutritional
security.
3. Agricultural Support – Draught animals like oxen and bullocks help in
ploughing fields and transportation.
4. Raw Material – Provides leather, wool, and manure for industries and
farming.
5. Income Source – Acts as a buffer income for farmers during crop failure.
6. Cultural Importance – Cows, goats, and other animals have religious and
traditional significance in India.
Types of Animal Husbandry in India
1.Dairy
Farming – Involves rearing cattle like cows and buffaloes for milk production.
India is the world’s largest producer of milk.
2.Poultry Farming – Rearing chickens, ducks, and other birds for meat and eggs.
Poultry is one of the fastest-growing agribusinesses in India.
3.Sheep and Goat Rearing – Provides wool, meat, and milk. Important in states
like Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Jammu & Kashmir.
4.Pig Farming – Low-cost animal husbandry practice popular in northeastern
states, provides pork which is in high demand.
5. Beekeeping (Apiculture) – Production of honey, beeswax, and pollination
support for crops.
6. Fisheries – Both inland and marine fisheries are included under animal husbandry, as they contribute significantly to India’s GDP and exports
Modern Techniques in Animal Husbandry
- Use of artificial insemination and
selective breeding.
- Scientific feeding practices to ensure better productivity.
- Vaccination and veterinary care to prevent diseases.
- Mechanized housing and milking equipment.
- Use of technology for monitoring animal health and production.
Government Schemes Supporting Animal Husbandry
1. Rashtriya Gokul Mission – Aims to
improve indigenous cattle breeds.
2. National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) – Strengthens the dairy sector.
3. Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme (DEDS) – Provides financial
support for dairy farms.
4. National Livestock Mission – Focuses on sustainable livestock development.
5. Poultry Venture Capital Fund Scheme – Encourages small poultry farms.
6.Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) – Boosts
fish production.
Challenges of Animal Husbandry in India
- Poor genetic quality of livestock.
- Lack of veterinary infrastructure.
- High incidence of animal diseases.
- Shortage of quality feed and fodder.
- Small and unorganized farms with low productivity.
- Limited access to markets and fair pricing.
Future of Animal Husbandry in India
The future of animal husbandry in India is
bright due to increasing demand for milk, eggs, meat, and other products. With
rising population and income levels, consumption of animal-based products is
expected to grow. Adoption of modern technologies, better veterinary care, and
government support will ensure sustainable growth.
Key areas for future development:
- Genetic improvement of breeds.
- Digital monitoring of livestock health.
- Organic and natural dairy/poultry products.
- Export-oriented animal husbandry practices.
- Improved cold storage and supply chains.
Conclusion
Animal husbandry is a vital part of India’s
agricultural and rural economy. It not only provides food and raw materials but
also ensures livelihood security for millions of farmers. Despite challenges,
the sector holds immense potential with the adoption of modern practices,
better government schemes, and increasing consumer demand for animal products.
👉 Strengthening animal husbandry is key to achieving nutritional
security and rural prosperity in India.
FAQs on Animal Husbandry
1. What is the meaning of animal husbandry?
Animal husbandry means breeding, rearing, and caring for livestock for food,
income, and raw materials.
2. Which is the largest dairy cooperative in India?
Amul, based in Gujarat, is India’s largest dairy cooperative.
3. Why is animal husbandry important in India?
It provides employment, income, food security, and raw materials for
industries.
4. Which states are famous for sheep rearing?
Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Jammu & Kashmir are major sheep-rearing states.
5. What government schemes support animal husbandry?
Schemes like Rashtriya Gokul Mission, NDDB initiatives, and DEDS promote animal
husbandry in India.
