Livestock Rearing Practices of Tribal Farmers

Attappady is one of the largest tribal settlements in the humid tropical climatic zone of Kerala, with 80 per cent forest cover. The tribal are traditionally engaged in agriculture, animal husbandry, and collection of forest produces for their livelihood. But, nowadays more and more tribal individuals are deserting their traditional livelihoods due to lower earnings, and opting to work as agricultural labourers. Animal husbandry is a secured source of livelihood for the tribal. But, the return is low due to lack of knowledge of modern animal husbandry practices, besides unawareness about marketing opportunities. This book presents the results of an intensive appraisal of the animal husbandry practices of tribesfolk of Attappady with special attention to breeding, feeding, housing and health care activities. It also proposes a set of recommendations for formulating future strategies to improve the livestock production in the area, thereby strengthening the livelihoods of poor tribes.