Reasons for Decreasing Indigenous Cattle Population and Interventions in its Conservation: A Perceptual Study of Field Veterinarians in Karnataka

Abstract

An exploratory study was conducted in Karnataka state of India with the objective to ascertain the veterinarian’s perceptions on causes for decrease in indigenous cattle and suggested interventions in conservation of indigenous cattle. There are six registered cattle breeds in Karnataka viz., Amritmahal, Deoni, Hallikar, Khillari, Krishna Valley and Malnad Gidda. One district was selected randomly from the breeding tract of each of indigenous cattle breed. Fifteen field veterinarians were selected as respondents from each of the selected districts, making a final sample of 90 veterinarians. Pre-tested questionnaire was employed in data collection. Major causes perceived by veterinarians for decreasing indigenous cattle population were; mechanization of agriculture, shrinking grazing land, ignorance about the quality traits of indigenous cattle, high cost of feeding and lack of interest in rearing indigenous cattle. Establishing organized markets, rendering incentives, promoting organic livestock farming, delivering integrated livestock services to indigenous cattle keepers were the major suggestions revealed by field veterinarians.