Perception on Livestock Changes and Its Socio-Economic Implications Among Agro-pastoralists: A Case Study of Agro-pastoralists in Joshimath Block in Chamoli
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.23854/07199562.2025611.kumar2Keywords:
Livestock, socio-economic, Himalayas, pastoralism, FodderAbstract
This study examines evolving livestock ownership and management patterns among agro-pastoralist communities in Joshimath block, Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, analysing their socio-economic implications. Using stratified random sampling, primary data were collected from 50 households across three elevation zones through structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews with key informants, and focus group discussions. The research reveals significant transformations over three decades (1990-2024), with a 32.5 percent decline in overall livestock numbers. Sheep numbers dropped by 48.6 percent and goats by 27.9 percent, while cattle ownership increased by 22.6 percent, buffalo ownership by 75 percent, and pack animals by 88.9 percent. Management practices shifted from long-distance transhumance (declining from 68 percent to 36 percent of households) toward settled livestock keeping and stall feeding systems. Key drivers include climate change impacts on highland pastures, labour constraints due to outmigration, emerging tourism opportunities, and land use restrictions. Livestock's contribution to household income declined, while tourism income increased. Gender roles transformed as well, with women now performing more hours of daily livestock management tasks compared to the past. Cultural implications include erosion of traditional ecological knowledge. The study documents remarkable adaptive capacity, with improved cattle breeds and pack animals offering the highest investment returns. The agro-pastoralist communities are undergoing dynamic reconfiguration rather than decline, blending traditional elements with new opportunities. Policy interventions should support sustainable adaptations while preserving traditional knowledge through integrated approaches, including cooperative herding, value-added products, and knowledge transmission programs.
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