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Economic Geography: Livestock & Dairy Development

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Rajasthan Geography: Livestock & Dairy Development

[!IMPORTANT] The Livestock State: Rajasthan ranks 2nd in India in total livestock population (approx 5.68 Crores as per the 20th Livestock Census, 2019). Livestock is the primary insurance for farmers in the arid regions against frequent droughts.

1. 20th Livestock Census (2019) Highlights

  • Total Livestock: 56.8 million (a decline of 1.66% compared to 2012).
  • Rajasthan's Rank in India:
    • 1st in Goats, Donkeys, and Camels.
    • 2nd in Buffaloes (after UP).
    • 4th in Sheep.
    • 6th in Cattle (Cows).
  • Livestock Density: 166 per sq. km. (Highest in Dungarpur/Rajsamand, Lowest in Jaisalmer).

2. Major Breeds of Livestock

A. Cattle (Cows)

BreedTypeRegionKey Characteristic
RathiMilchBikaner, GanganagarKnown as the 'Kamdhenu of Rajasthan'.
GirMilchAjmer, BhilwaraAlso called 'Renda' or 'Ajmera'. Originates from Gujarat.
TharparkarDual PurposeBarmer, JaisalmerOriginates from Tharparkar (Pakistan). Best milk-yield in desert.
NagauriDraughtNagaurFamous for powerful bullocks used in farming.
KankrejDual PurposeJalore, BarmerKnown for their majestic walk called 'Sawai Chaal'.

B. Buffaloes

  • Murrah: Most famous breed, found in Alwar, Bharatpur, and Jaipur. Known for high fat content in milk and curved horns (Gundi).

C. Sheep

BreedRegionKey Characteristic
ChoklaShekhawatiKnown as the 'Indian Merino' for its superior quality wool.
MarwariWestern RajasthanMost resilient; maximum population in the state.
MagraBikanerKnown for carpet-quality wool (Bikaneri Choukia).
PugalBikanerBlack face with white spots.

D. Others

  • Goats: Marwari (most common), Jakhrana (best for milk in Alwar), Parbatsari (Nagaur). Rajasthan is the largest producer of goat meat in India.
  • Camels: Bikaneri (load carrying), Jaisalmeri (riding/racing), Nachna (best aesthetic appearance). State animal (Livestock category) since 2014.

3. Dairy & Poultry Development

  • RCDF: Rajasthan Cooperative Dairy Federation (est. 1977). Brand name: Saras.
  • State Animal: Camel (Livestock) and Chinkara (Wildlife).
  • Poultry: Ajmer is the hub of poultry farming in Rajasthan (Egg Basket).

[!TIP] Key Research Centers:

  • CSWRI: Central Sheep & Wool Research Institute at Avikanagar (Tonk).
  • National Research Centre on Camels: Johirbeer (Bikaner).
  • Cattle Breeding Farm: Bassi (Jaipur) and Tharparkar farm at Jaisalmer (Chandan).