Migratory Sheep Husbandry in Himalayan State of Himachal Pradesh, India: Status and Headway Options for Improvement and Sustainability

Abstract

Sheep husbandry is an integral component of hill farming system. Gaddi and Rampur-Bushair are two indigenous sheep breeds of the state. Average decline in sheep population over last 15 years is 1.67%/year. Wool production has also shown declining trend over the years in line with the national average; however, during 2016-17 positive growth (4.75%) has also been demonstrated. Wool procurement is mostly through middleman while wool federation accounts for only 7.32% of procurement. Primary focus of improvement programme is crossbreeding leading to disregard of selective breeding. Therefore, the breeding programmes need refinement/reorientation by introduction of new sheep breed in the region as well as selective breeding among the native sheep. Strengthening of institutional support during migration, development of remunerative and organized wool procurement mechanism and developing effective extension messages to address issues of disease and sub-optimal management under migratory systems are suggested to ensure sustainability of sheep farming in the region.