A Study on Socio-economic Condition of Sheep Rearers of District Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand

Background: Uttarakhand is a hilly state and a very little land is under cultivation but animal husbandry appears to be a good source of livelihood for farmers and sheep rearing is one of the major components of animal husbandry in Uttarakhand which help farmers to run their life. Sheep rearing is very much prevailing in hilly regions of the State.

Aim: To find the socio-economic condition of the rearers.

Methodology: A study was conducted in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. A total of 80 rearers were selected randomly from the Bhatwari block of Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand and a pre structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the rearers. Respondents were classified into three categories on the basis of number of sheep viz. small (having less than 50 sheep), medium (between 50-100 sheep), and large (more than 100 sheep).

Results: Study showed that small rearers have 46.86 average numbers of sheep whereas medium size rearers have 73.88 and large rearers have 258.52 average numbers of sheep. Out of which number of Ram were lowest. Most of the rearers were from 35-50 years of age group. 48.74 % of rearers had completed their primary education and 14.11% of rearers were illiterate. Majority of rearers (i.e., 68.75) were engaged with two occupations. On an average 57.48 % of rearers were OBCs (Other backward class) and 29.99 % were from tribal community(i.e.,Bhotiya). The average income of small, medium and large farm group is ₹53,440, ₹89,627 ₹1,96,802 respectively.

Conclusion: It was concluded that there is need to eradicate the lack of awareness about the new technologies and educate the rearers about more efficient way of sheep rearing. With this women participation and youth should also be encouraged to involve in sheep rearing.