Livelihood analysis of livestock farmers in arid region of Deccan Plateau

Abstract

Resource-poor farmers form a major part in arid eco system of the country. Livestock in the life of these farmers’ plays varied roles - as an asset, offers economic fluidity, is all-weather income source etc. Most important one is it brings in sustainability to crop cultivation in arid system. A study was taken up to analyse the role of livestock in the livelihood of farmers, emphasising more on resource poor farmers using sustainable livelihood framework. Analysis of data collected by employing standardised interview schedule to 162 households of 3 districts of arid zone of Southern India revealed asymmetrical livelihood pentagon with limited social and financial capitals. Landholding explained 65 percent variation on livestock income indicating more equitable distribution of livestock income across farmers of different landholding categories. Therefore, promotion of collective actions, technology dissemination and also incessant research on livestock husbandry for resource-poor farmers should become part of the strategic plan to reduce agrarian crisis and bring in social parity in rural areas.