Pastoral nomadism in breeding tract of Changthangi Pashmina goats

The migratory aspects of Changthangi pashmina goat flock rearers was studied to examine the livestock population, pastures, nature and routes of livestock migration along with rights of stakeholders in the cold arid region of Changthang at Ladakh. The pastures of Changthang in the main and collateral valleys are thin with sparse vegetation. The best pasture grasses/bushes for pashmina and wool production are Nayargal (Astragalus) and Tama (Caragana). The balance in pasture is maintained by leaving horses and yaks in the high mountain valleys. The livestock in Changthang is reared mainly under extensive and completely migratory production system with camp movement 6 to 10 times in a year. Livestock migration is followed in accordance with the traditional socially established annual routes. The study suggests the need of identification of potential pasture areas and their protection through watershed development jointly with the stakeholders to enhance the sustainability of this system in long run.