Indian Journal of Dryland Agricultural Research and Development

Livestock plays a critical role in the livelihoods of millions of small and marginal farmers in general and more particularly in dryland regions where crop productivity is low due to erratic rainfall and poor soil fertility. Improved livestock management systems are essential for enhancing productivity, sustainability, and resilience in these regions. Fodder production with drought-resistant forage crops and making silage ensure a stable feed supply during lean seasons. Further, controlled and rotational grazing systems allow vegetation to recover, reducing overgrazing and preserving soil health in natural grazing lands. Genetic improvements, such as selective breeding for drought and heat tolerance and using reproductive technologies like artificial insemination and sexed semen can enhance herd resilience and productivity. Additionally, improved health monitoring and disease control strategies, including regular vaccinations and bio-security practices, can mitigate livestock losses from endemic diseases. Integrating modern technologies like infrared cameras, IoT sensors, and digital surveillance tools like drones enables better monitoring of livestock health and grazing conditions, allowing livestock farmers to respond more effectively to potential issues. By customizing livestock management practices, combined with capacity-building programs and supportive policies, to address the unique needs and resource constraints of dryland regions, the productivity and sustainability of livestock systems can be significantly improved. This approach not only enhances the income stability of small-scale farmers but also supports the long-term resilience of dryland agro-eco systems, contributing to nutritional security and economic growth in the era of challenging environments.