What are some important statistics or data related to Animal Husbandry...
Introduction:
Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science is an important subject for the UPSC exam, especially for candidates aspiring to work in the agricultural sector or in animal welfare. It involves the study of livestock management, animal health, breeding, and nutrition. Here are some important statistics and data related to this field that you should be familiar with for the UPSC exam:
1. Livestock Population:
- India is one of the largest producers of livestock in the world.
- As per the 20th Livestock Census conducted in 2019, India's total livestock population was around 535 million, which included cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, pigs, horses, ponies, mules, donkeys, camels, and poultry.
- The highest livestock population was of cattle (192 million), followed by goats (148 million) and buffaloes (109 million).
- The livestock sector contributes significantly to India's agricultural economy.
2. Milk Production:
- India is the largest milk-producing country in the world.
- As per the 2019-20 data from the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, India produced around 198.4 million tonnes of milk, accounting for about 22% of the world's total milk production.
- The major milk-producing states in India are Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh.
3. Poultry Industry:
- The poultry industry plays a crucial role in providing eggs and meat to the population.
- India has witnessed significant growth in the poultry sector in recent years.
- As of 2019, India produced around 108 billion eggs and 4.6 million metric tons of poultry meat.
- The states of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Maharashtra, and Punjab are the leading contributors to the poultry industry.
4. Veterinary Infrastructure:
- The availability of veterinary services and infrastructure is essential for animal healthcare.
- As per the 2019 data, India had approximately 56,969 veterinary institutions, including veterinary hospitals, dispensaries, and clinics.
- The states with the highest number of veterinary institutions include Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh.
5. Disease Outbreaks:
- Disease outbreaks can have a significant impact on animal health and the agricultural economy.
- Familiarize yourself with recent disease outbreaks in animals, such as Avian Influenza (bird flu), Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), and African Swine Fever (ASF).
- Understand the preventive measures and strategies implemented by the government to control and manage these diseases.
Conclusion:
These statistics and data related to Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science are crucial for the UPSC exam. Understanding the livestock population, milk production, poultry industry, veterinary infrastructure, and disease outbreaks will enable you to have a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Stay updated with the latest developments and government initiatives in this field for a well-rounded preparation.