Vol. 5, Issue 3, Part A (2020)

Author(s): Rakshya Shrestha, Roshan Ghimire and Nirajan Bhattarai

Abstract: Goat, although has been the most neglected domesticated species in many parts of the world, is ranked third in terms of global milk production. This study was aimed at assessing farmer’s attitude and consent towards consumption of goat milk and its product in eastern Chitwan, Nepal. About 100 goat farmers were interviewed in the study area. The data were collected from July 2019 to August 2019 through personal interview with semi-structured questionnaires. The result showed that the ownership of goat farm under the study area was dominated by males (60.8%).The main reason for adoption of goat farming in study area was for livelihood(80.4%) followed by passion(15.7%). The study shows that majority (90.2%) of farmers were unknown about the breed of goat they were rearing. Jamunapari was the popular breed among the farmers who used goat milk as part of family diet. The average herd size in study area was found to be 11.03+0.77.Information on farmer’s perception towards consumption of goat milk and its product shows that majority (80.4%) don’t consume goat milk as a part of the family diet while minority (19.6%) consumes milk infrequently. Most preferred livestock for milk consumption in study area was found to be buffalo and cow. Majority (52.9%) of family were unknown about nutritional benefits of milk while 47.1% family doesn’t consume milk even after knowing its benefit. Cultural bias and natural dislike were found to be the main reasons for not consuming goat milk. The study shows the necessity of highlighting the role of goat and its product in national economy and health. Vigorous extension program, marketing strategy, promotion and advertisement regarding goat milk and its product are immediately needed to improve this sector.