Manipur, a state in northeastern India, is endowed with a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Agriculture is the primary occupation of its people, and livestock and dairy farming play significant roles in supplementing rural incomes and enhancing the state's agrarian economy. This article delves into the multifaceted aspects of livestock and dairy farming in Manipur, highlighting its importance, challenges, and future potential.
1. Importance of Livestock and Dairy Farming in Manipur
Livelihood Source: Livestock farming supports a significant portion of the rural population, particularly smallholder farmers.
Nutritional Security: Dairy farming contributes to nutritional security by providing milk and milk products rich in protein, calcium, and vitamins.
Economic Contribution: The livestock sector contributes substantially to the state's gross domestic product (GDP), providing income through the sale of milk, meat, eggs, and related products.
2. Livestock Population in Manipur
Manipur has a diverse livestock population that includes cattle, buffalo, pigs, goats, sheep, and poultry. According to the latest livestock census:
Cattle: Indigenous breeds dominate, with a significant population contributing to both draft power and milk production.
Pigs: Manipur has one of the highest per capita pig populations in India, reflecting its cultural and dietary preferences.
Goats and Sheep: Primarily reared for meat, they are also a source of manure and hides.
Poultry: Backyard poultry farming is prevalent, offering eggs and meat for domestic consumption and local markets.
3. Dairy Farming in Manipur
Milk Production: The majority of milk production in Manipur comes from indigenous and crossbred cattle. Buffaloes also contribute significantly, especially in the valley regions.
Milk Yield: Despite the high demand, milk yield per animal remains low due to reliance on indigenous breeds with lower productivity.
Cooperative Sector: Dairy cooperatives play a crucial role in collecting and marketing milk. The Imphal Milk Union is an example of such an initiative.
Processing Units: Limited infrastructure exists for processing milk into value-added products like cheese, butter, and yogurt.
4. Indigenous Breeds and Their Significance
Manipur is home to several indigenous breeds adapted to the region's hilly terrain and climatic conditions:
Tharparkar Cattle: Known for dual-purpose utility (milk and draft power).
Manipuri Buffalo: Adapted to local conditions, used for milk and draft work in rice paddies.
Indigenous Pig Breeds: Suited to the traditional pig-rearing practices in backyard systems.
5. Challenges in Livestock and Dairy Farming
Low Productivity:
Indigenous breeds have low milk and meat yields.
Insufficient crossbreeding programs.
Feed and Fodder Shortages:
Limited availability of quality feed and grazing areas.
Dependence on forest resources for fodder.
Veterinary Care:
Inadequate veterinary infrastructure and services.
High prevalence of diseases due to lack of vaccination and awareness.
Market Access:
Poor connectivity in hilly areas affects the marketing of livestock products.
Fluctuations in market demand and prices.
Lack of Modern Techniques:
Traditional methods dominate, with minimal adoption of scientific farming practices.
6. Government Initiatives and Schemes
National Livestock Mission (NLM): Provides financial and technical support for improving livestock production.
Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme (DEDS): Promotes modern dairy farms and milk processing.
Rural Backyard Poultry Development Programme: Encourages poultry farming in rural areas.
State Livestock Development Programs: Focused on genetic improvement and disease control.
7. Role of Women in Livestock Farming
Women in Manipur play a pivotal role in livestock management:
Feeding and care of animals.
Processing and selling milk products.
Participation in cooperative societies. Empowering women through skill development and credit facilities can further boost the sector.
8. Opportunities in Livestock and Dairy Farming
Organic Dairy Products:
The state's pristine environment offers scope for producing high-quality organic milk and products.
Integrated Farming Systems:
Combining livestock farming with horticulture and aquaculture can enhance productivity and sustainability.
Value Addition:
Establishing milk processing units for cheese, ghee, and flavored milk can create new markets.
Exports:
Leveraging geographical indications (GI) for unique livestock products can boost exports.
9. Promoting Sustainable Practices
Improved Breeding Techniques:
Artificial insemination and crossbreeding programs to enhance productivity.
Fodder Cultivation:
Encouraging the cultivation of high-yielding fodder crops to address feed shortages.
Disease Management:
Regular vaccination drives and mobile veterinary units to reduce disease outbreaks.
Waste Management:
Utilizing livestock waste for biogas and organic manure production.