Livestock of Rajasthan | RPSC Preparation: All subjects - RPSC RAS (Rajasthan) PDF Download

Importance of Livestock in Rajasthan's Economy

Livestock plays a crucial role in the economy of Rajasthan, with a significant impact on both rural livelihoods and the state's overall GDP.

Overview

• Livestock sector is a major contributor to the economy of Rajasthan, complementing the dominant service sector and sustaining rural livelihoods.
• Livestock, particularly in arid regions, serves as a primary source of income, food security, and poverty alleviation for a large percentage of the population.
• Animal husbandry accounts for about 10.21% of the state's GDP, with small and marginal farmers deriving up to 35% of their income from dairy and livestock activities.
• In arid areas, this contribution can be even higher, reaching up to 50% of the income for households.

Role in Livelihoods

• Livestock ownership is widespread among rural families in Rajasthan, with over 80% of households engaging in animal husbandry practices.
• Livestock serves as a crucial source of animal protein for the population, ensuring dietary diversity and nutritional security.
• The sector plays a vital role in generating employment opportunities in rural areas, thereby reducing poverty and enhancing overall economic resilience.

Food Security and Economic Impact

• Livestock not only provides food security but also acts as a form of insurance against economic hardships, particularly in regions with limited agricultural productivity.
• The development of the livestock sector has a cascading effect on poverty reduction, creating a ripple of economic benefits that extend to various segments of the population.

Contribution to GDP

• The animal husbandry sector's contribution to Rajasthan's GDP underscores its economic significance, highlighting its role as a key driver of rural prosperity and sustainable livelihoods.

Livestock Scenario in Rajasthan

The state of Rajasthan plays a significant role in the livestock sector of India, contributing substantially to the nation's overall livestock numbers and production.
Here is an overview of the livestock scenario in Rajasthan:

Livestock Distribution

• Rajasthan accounts for around 11.27% of the total livestock in India.
• The state is home to approximately 6.98% of the country's cattle, 11.94% of buffaloes, 16.03% of goats, 13.95% of sheep, and a staggering 81.50% of camels.

Production Contributions

• In the year 2016-17, Rajasthan contributed 12% of the nation's milk production and 32% of wool production.
• Livestock in Rajasthan provide 35% of the draft power in the state.
• More than 80% of rural families in the state rear livestock as a means of livelihood.
• The animal husbandry sector contributes an estimated 8% to the state's GDP.

Rankings and Production Statistics

• Rajasthan holds the second position in milk production and per capita milk availability in India.
• The state ranks first in wool production and produces 10% of the country's meat.
• In terms of egg production, Rajasthan ranks 14th in India.

Constraints and Challenges

Livestock development in Rajasthan faces various challenges, including:

• The sector being largely unorganized with small-scale holdings, predominantly owned by economically weaker sections of society, limiting its potential beyond mere sustenance.
• Unorganized livestock markets that suffer from insufficient investments by both the public and private sectors.
• Inadequate availability of quality breeds, lack of health and nutrition support, frequent occurrence of natural calamities leading to diseases and mortality.
• Rajasthan's arid environment poses challenges due to inadequate fodder and feed resources, as well as insufficient infrastructure in terms of cooperatives, veterinary services, and knowledge support.

Livestock in Rajasthan 

Types and Breeds of Livestock

• Camels of Rajasthan
• Cattle Breeds in Rajasthan
• Sheep in Rajasthan

Livestock Policies and Acts

• Draft State Livestock & Dairy Development Policy 2019

Livestock Census in Rajasthan

• 20th Livestock Census 2019 of Rajasthan
• 20th Livestock Census 2019 of India
• 19th Livestock Census 2012 in Rajasthan
• Livestock Numbers:
  • Total Livestock: 577.32 lakh (including Cattle, Buffalo, Sheep, Goat, Horse & Ponies, Mules, Donkeys, Camel, Pig)
  • Poultry in Rajasthan: 80.24 lakh
  • Highest Livestock Numbers: Barmer
  • Lowest Livestock Numbers: Dholpur
  • Areas with Highest Livestock Density: Rajsamand and Dausa (292 per square kilometer)