Spatio-temporal transition in livestock population in western Rajasthan: Analysis of trends and drivers

Abstract

This socio-economic investigation was undertaken to analyse trends in the livestock population in western Rajasthan and the underlying drivers. A mixed-methods approach was used for the collection of data and synthesis of results. The growth and variability in livestock population in western Rajasthan from 1983 to 2019 were estimated using compound annual growth rate (CAGR) and cuddy della valle (CDV) instability index, respectively. To identify the driving factors behind these trends in livestock population, primary data were analyzed and ranked using the Garrett ranking technique. Primary data were collected from 200 livestock farmers in Jodhpur district selected through simple random sampling. Results revealed that CAGR during 1983 to 2019 was highest for buffaloes (2.2%) followed by cattle (1.4) and goats (1.1). However, camel and sheep populations witnessed negative growth (-3.2 and -1.2%, respectively) and the highest CDV Instability Index (32 and 20%, respectively). When compared on adult cattle units (ACU) basis, cattle were the most significant livestock species (35.2–46.7%) in the region throughout the period. ACU of buffaloes has increased (from 19.6–29.4%) while that of camel (9.1–1.7%) and sheep (16.6–7.6%) has decreased significantly during this period. Based on primary data analyzed, the major drivers behind these trends in livestock population were transition from subsistence to commercial agriculture, preference of buffaloes over cattle; decline and degradation of common grazing lands; and relative economic viability, social acceptability and adoption of scientific livestock production technologies. Among the small ruminants, goat rearing in small herds has adapted to the evolving farming systems in the region. On the contrary, camel and sheep populations were most vulnerable to the changes. This transition in livestock population and reduced dependency on commons has implications for higher fodder and feed demand in the region.