Understanding the Rise of Animal Husbandry in India

animal husbandry: A Reliable livelihood in India

Animal husbandry is increasingly recognized as a more dependable source of livelihood compared to traditional crop cultivation in India. This shift is largely due to the consistent food and income that animal husbandry provides, even in adverse weather conditions that can severely affect crop yields.

Consistency in Food and Income

One of the primary advantages of animal husbandry is its ability to ensure food and cash flow even when crops fail. For instance, animals provide essential products such as milk, eggs, and meat, which are crucial for household nutrition and income. Additionally, live animals can be sold for immediate cash, offering financial relief when needed.

Rising Demand for animal products

The demand for animal products is growing rapidly, outpacing that of plant-based foods. This trend is driven by rising incomes and changing dietary preferences among consumers. As a result, animal husbandry has become a vital component of India’s agricultural landscape.

Contribution to Household Security

Animal husbandry also plays a significant role in household food and income security. In times of crop failure, households can rely on their livestock for sustenance. Products such as milk and eggs remain available, helping families maintain their nutrition and financial stability.

Challenges in the Animal Husbandry Sector

Despite its advantages, the animal husbandry sector faces considerable challenges. One major constraint is the acute shortage of feed and fodder. Natural pastures are diminishing due to encroachment and environmental degradation, while the prices of cultivated fodder are rising.

Growth Comparison: Livestock vs. Crops

The livestock sector in India has shown remarkable growth compared to the crops sector. Over the past decade, the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for livestock has surged to approximately 7.5%, while the CAGR for crop production has slowed to around 1.5%. This stark contrast highlights the increasing importance of livestock in agricultural development.

The Significance of the Milk Industry

India's milk industry is a cornerstone of its agricultural economy. Since becoming the largest milk producer in 1998, India accounted for nearly 23% of global milk production as of 2021-22. Moreover, per capita milk availability in India surpasses the global average, underscoring the sector's impact on nutrition and livelihoods.

export trends in Animal Products

The export of animal products from India has been on an upward trajectory. In the financial year 2022-23, India exported livestock products worth over ₹32,597 crore, with buffalo meat representing nearly two-thirds of these exports. This trend reflects the growing global demand for Indian animal products.

Funding and Investment in the Sector

Animal husbandry has largely benefited from private investments, as most agricultural subsidies from central and state governments are predominantly directed towards the crops sector. This underlines the need for enhanced support for the livestock sector to ensure its sustainable growth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Why is animal husbandry preferred over crop cultivation in India?
Answer: Animal husbandry offers consistent food and income, remaining viable even during crop failures, making it a more reliable livelihood option.

Q2. How does animal husbandry enhance food security?
Answer: It ensures households have access to food through animal products like milk and eggs, providing nutrition and financial stability during agricultural downturns.

Q3. What challenges does the animal husbandry sector face?
Answer: Major constraints include feed shortages due to decreasing natural pastures and rising costs of cultivated fodder.

Q4. How has the livestock sector grown compared to crops?
Answer: The livestock sector's CAGR has reached approximately 7.5%, significantly higher than the stagnating 1.5% CAGR of crop production over the past decade.

Q5. What is the significance of the milk industry in India?
Answer: The milk industry is crucial, making India the world’s largest producer, accounting for nearly 23% of global milk output and exceeding global per capita availability.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of livestock in India?
A) 1.5%
B) 5%
C) 7.5%
D) 10%
Correct Answer: C

Question 2: What percentage of global milk production does India account for?
A) 10%
B) 15%
C) 20%
D) 23%
Correct Answer: D

Question 3: What is a major challenge faced by the animal husbandry sector in India?
A) Overproduction
B) feed shortage
C) Excessive government support
D) Lack of interest
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: In which year did India become the world's largest milk producer?
A) 1990
B) 1998
C) 2000
D) 2005
Correct Answer: B