Feeding, Housing, Healthcare and Marketing Constraints Practices of Goat Farming in Sirohi Tehsil District of Rajasthan, India

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the key challenges Sirohi Tehsil of Sirohi district, and Rajasthan goat farmers face in applying scientific management practices. Eighty goat owners randomly selected from four villages participated in structured interviews covering breeding, feeding, lodging, healthcare, and marketing practices. The findings revealed that several challenges goat rearers face hinder output and profitability. Among breeding methods, the high cost of producing bucks emerged as the most significant constraint (Mean Percent Score [MPS] = 92.13), followed by repeat breeding issues and delayed puberty. Feeding habits were largely affected by the high cost of concentrate feed (MPS = 97.18), lack of knowledge about balanced feeding and mineral mix, and lack of green fodder. Regarding housing, the key challenges were high construction costs (MPS = 92.33), lack of personal resources, and inadequate unique housing facilities. In healthcare, distance to veterinary hospitals, costly veterinary services, and parasite diseases (MPS = 86.26) caused significant issues. Marketing-related limitations were low market pricing for goats and bucks (MPS = 89.98), lack of developed market infrastructure, and limited transportation and communication capacity. The production, profitability and adoption of improved goat farming methods are significantly affected by these constraints. The study shows that better extension services, farmers’ education, stronger market linkages, infrastructure development, and access to financial support demand concentrated efforts to overcome these issues. Dealing with these constraints holistically can significantly enhance goat farming outcomes, bolster local economies, and promote sustainable livestock development in the region.