Role of animal husbandry in indian economy: An over view

Poverty and hunger eradication are among the greatest global challenges facing the world today and an indispensable requirement for sustainable development. Driven by population and economic growth, particularly in developing countries, the demand for livestock products is expected to increase by about 70 percent in the coming 30 years. The livestock sector contributes to address these challenges by promoting a sustained economic growth, inclusive social development and an efficient use of natural resources. Livestock has played an indispensable role in the Indian economy. Animal husbandry is culturally and economically integrated into the society. Livestock is a source of protein, livelihood and draught power. Diverse enterprises like Apiculture, Sericulture, and Pisciculture have been reared traditionally for many years. Indigenous stock has higher resistant to diseases and can better adapt to climate change. They act as a buffer to crop failure and sudden monetary losses. Rearing a wide variety of animals like yaks, camels and Mithun apart from cattle, sheep and goat are unique characteristics of animal husbandry in India. Technological backwardness, financial constraints, and inadequate veterinary services are few issues that hinder the progress in the sector.