Use of indigenous technical knowledge by dairy farmers of Jammu region vis-a-vis animal husbandry practices

The present study was undertaken in Jammu, Samba and Kathua districts of Jammu and Kashmir to categorize and prioritize different factors influencing the application of Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITKs) by dairy farmers in animal husbandry practices. 150 dairy farmers from three districts of Jammu division (Jammu, Samba and Kathua) were chosen as respondents who had a minimum of one milch animal and also practicing ITKs during the period of this study. The results of this research study revealed that, locally available medicinal plants were the main factor followed by the dairy farmers with perceived knowledge of ITK. Along with this lack of door-step availability of veterinary services coupled with their high cost was perceived as the third most important factor that determined the utilization of ITKs by the dairy farmers in maintaining animal health and productivity. Localized and plentiful availability of indigenous plants, familiarity and confidence concerning ITK were the main reasons that determine the use of ITKs by the dairy farmers. Different rationale behind embracing of ITKs may be owing to the fact that it is part of their way of life, behavior and long-established standards and can be performed using available resources.

• Livestock owners should be acquainted with scientific management practices through appropriated training programmes.

• Locally and easy availability of medicinal plants was the most important factor for adoption of indigenous technical knowledge.

• Different stakeholders must work to preserve herbs and provide necessary facilities to the farmers to cultivate these species.