Goat marketing practices in Firozabad district of Uttar Pradesh

A survey was conducted to assess the goat marketing trends in Firozabad district of Uttar Pradesh. A structured questionnaire was developed for the collection of data from 180 heads of village panchayats by telephone interviews during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study revealed that farmers on an average purchased goats at the age 9.67±0.67 months and sold them at 28.11±0.82 months. A total of 35.00% farmers purchased the goats for food and nutrition, 28.89% for self employment, 20.00% for investment, 9.44% for labour utilization and 6.67% for financial security. Similarly 36.67% farmers sold goats to meet their household requirement, 22.22% for cash requirement, 16.11% for fertilizer/seed purchase, 15.56% for credit and debit purposes and 9.44% due to shortage of feed and fodder. The majority of farmers purchased (43.89%) and sold (70.56%) their goats in nearby markets. Seasonal market demand and price fluctuations were the major constraints faced by farmers (23.33%). The study highlights the need for better market awareness, logistic support and training to enhance economic viability and stability in goat farming.