Analysis on income, expenditure, challenges and prospects of yak rearing: empirical evidences from Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh

Yak rearing offers ample of opportunity for socio-economic development in various sectors of economy which ranges from food to tourism sector. Also, yak as a source of food especially milk and milk products is highly valued among people of Tawang District of Arunachal Pradesh. Infact, milk and its related products have been the main source of income of Brokpas (yak herders) of the study district. However, herders earn very less portion of their income from its meat. Again, leather & hide also contributes in total income of the Brokpas but its share is very poor due to effects of substitution, technical incompetence and modernity intervention. The present study revealed that herders of the study area have incurred highest expenditure on dry fodder which is followed by local taxes, other items and medicines. Presently, yak has contributed and still contributing to livelihood of common populace of Tawang district by providing essential food items, support agriculture, provides gainful employment to peoples, act as good capital assets with less risk and more gain, and provides various raw materials for traditional products etc. Besides economic benefits, yak has cultural values and immensely contributes in traditional, cultural and rituals ceremonies of the Monpa community.

With this background, the present study made attempt to study income and expenditure of yak herders of Tawang District. It also endeavored to study challenges of yak rearing in the Study Area. The study also tried to identify prospects of yak rearing in the Study Area.