Livestock in India

Livestock in India constitutes a vital component of the country’s agricultural economy and rural livelihood system. India possesses one of the largest and most diverse livestock populations in the world, encompassing cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, pigs, camels, poultry, and other domesticated species. Beyond serving as a source of food, income, and employment, livestock contributes significantly to soil fertility, draft power, organic manure, and cultural practices in Indian society.

Historical Background and Importance

The rearing of livestock in India has ancient origins, deeply embedded in its agrarian and cultural traditions. Archaeological evidence from the Indus Valley Civilisation (c. 2600–1900 BCE) reveals that cattle, goats, and sheep were already domesticated. Over time, animal husbandry became a cornerstone of Indian agriculture, particularly in mixed farming systems where livestock complemented crop production.
Livestock plays a central role in the rural economy, providing subsidiary income and employment to millions of small and marginal farmers. For many landless families, animals like goats, poultry, and buffaloes serve as crucial assets that can be sold or traded during economic hardship. The livestock sector also contributes to food security through the production of milk, meat, eggs, and other animal-based products.

Composition of Livestock Population

According to recent Livestock Census data, India accounts for about 11% of the world’s livestock population, with a particularly large share of cattle and buffaloes. The major categories of livestock include:

• Cattle: India has the world’s largest cattle population. Indigenous breeds such as Gir, Sahiwal, Ongole, Kankrej, and Tharparkar are well adapted to local climatic conditions. Cross-breeding with exotic varieties like Holstein Friesian and Jersey has been promoted to improve milk productivity.
• Buffalo: India ranks first globally in buffalo numbers and milk production. Prominent breeds include Murrah, Nili-Ravi, Jaffarabadi, and Mehsana. Buffaloes are preferred in several regions for their rich milk and high-fat content.
• Sheep: Reared primarily for wool, meat, and manure, sheep farming is concentrated in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and the Deccan Plateau. Popular breeds include Chokla, Nellore, and Rampur Bushair.
• Goats: Often called the “poor man’s cow,” goats are valued for meat and milk, and are particularly suited to arid and semi-arid regions. Notable breeds are Jamunapari, Beetal, Black Bengal, and Barbari.
• Pigs: Pig rearing is significant among tribal and marginal communities, especially in northeastern and eastern India. Improved breeds include Large White Yorkshire and Landrace.
• Camels and Horses: Camels are primarily found in Rajasthan and Gujarat for draught and transport, while horses and ponies are reared in hilly regions and for ceremonial uses.
• Poultry: India’s poultry sector has seen rapid growth, driven by commercial production of eggs and broilers. Indigenous breeds like Aseel and Kadaknath coexist with improved hybrids developed for high productivity.

Contribution to the Economy

The livestock sector contributes significantly to India’s Gross Value Added (GVA) in agriculture. It provides:

• Around 25–30% of agricultural GDP.
• Livelihood support for more than 20 million rural households.
• A major share of India’s milk, meat, egg, and leather exports.

India is the largest producer of milk in the world, accounting for over 20% of global production. The dairy industry, encompassing cooperatives like Amul, has been a cornerstone of rural development and women’s empowerment. The Operation Flood programme launched in 1970 transformed India from a milk-deficient nation into a self-sufficient one.
The livestock sector also generates by-products such as hides, wool, manure, and draught power, making it an integral part of the sustainable agricultural ecosystem.

Regional Distribution and Production Systems

Livestock rearing in India varies by region, reflecting differences in climate, resources, and agricultural practices:

• Northern and Western India: Focus on dairy farming and mixed crop-livestock systems.
• Southern India: Integrated systems combining dairying, poultry, and small ruminant rearing.
• Eastern and Northeastern India: Predominance of backyard piggery, poultry, and small ruminant farming.
• Arid regions (Rajasthan and Gujarat): Camel, sheep, and goat-based pastoral systems adapted to low rainfall.

Production systems can broadly be classified as:

1. Subsistence-oriented: Smallholder or backyard rearing for family consumption and small income.
2. Commercial or semi-commercial: Medium and large-scale farms focusing on market-oriented dairy and poultry production.
3. Pastoral and nomadic: Herd-based systems relying on seasonal grazing, common in arid and semi-arid zones.

Breeding and Improvement Programmes

To enhance productivity, the Government of India has introduced several livestock breeding and development programmes, including:

• National Dairy Plan (NDP): Aims to increase milk productivity through genetic improvement and better management.
• Rashtriya Gokul Mission: Focuses on the conservation and promotion of indigenous cattle breeds.
• National Livestock Mission (NLM): Supports sustainable development of livestock by improving feed, fodder, and disease control.
• Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme: Targets prevention and eradication of major diseases such as Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) and Brucellosis.

These initiatives combine scientific breeding methods, veterinary support, and training in animal husbandry practices to enhance productivity and sustainability.

Challenges in the Livestock Sector

Despite its achievements, the livestock sector in India faces several challenges:

• Low productivity: Indigenous breeds often produce less milk and meat compared to improved varieties.
• Feed and fodder shortage: Limited grazing land and poor-quality feed constrain animal nutrition.
• Disease burden: Outbreaks of diseases such as FMD, PPR, and avian influenza cause major economic losses.
• Climate change: Rising temperatures and erratic rainfall affect pasture availability and animal health.
• Market access and infrastructure: Inadequate cold chains, transportation, and veterinary facilities limit profitability.
• Socio-economic barriers: Small and marginal farmers often lack resources and access to credit for livestock improvement.

Government Policies and Institutional Support

The livestock sector is supported through various national policies and schemes coordinated by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. Key initiatives include:

• National Livestock Policy (2013): Provides a framework for sustainable and inclusive livestock development.
• Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme (DEDS): Encourages self-employment through dairy farming.
• Livestock Insurance Scheme: Provides financial protection against animal losses.
• e-GOPALA Platform: Digital system for livestock management, breeding, and health advisory.