Indian Journal of Small Ruminants (The)

In this review, the present status of small ruminants and future strategies for augmenting meat production are discussed. Small ruminants are an integral part of the Indian agricultural production system. India occupies leading position in sheep (74.3 million) and goat (148.9 million) population globally. In a span of nearly seven decades, both sheep and goat population has increased by 90.03 and 215.47% respectively. Sheep and goats contribute 2226.16 million kg of meat (23.96%) to total meat production in India. West Bengal, Bihar, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Karnataka states account for 58.69% of the country's goat meat production. Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan states contribute 88.77% of the country's mutton production. During the year 2022-23, 9592 MT of sheep and goat meat worth 66.90 USD million was exported. India has around 4000 registered slaughterhouses and 93 state-of-art export-oriented abattoirs. Per capita consumption of meat in India is around 6.82 kg/annum. The carcass yield of sheep is 13 vs. 17 kg and goat 10 vs. 12 kg compared to international average. For exploitation of full genetic potential of animals, optimum breeding feeding and management would be key factors for enhancing meat production. Flock health approach with targeted and modern scientific treatments is most suitable strategy for protecting small ruminant health. Novel preventive and control strategies are necessary to protect animals from diseases. Meat processing and value addition have great potential for employment opportunities. Hygienic meatproduction and value addition following animal welfare and eco-friendly technologies are essential for meat production. Further, a "safe and traceable meat value chain" willsupport thedevelopment of cleanmeatproduction.