Vol. 10, Issue 1, Part C (2025)

Author(s): Salam Prabex, Saidur Rahman and Lalhumliana Tochhawng

Abstract: Indigenous cattle play a vital role in traditional farming practices, offering considerable value across social, cultural, emotional, and ecological dimensions, in addition to their economic and livelihood significance. In order to investigate the existing rearing management practices employed by farmers within the designated research area, an exploratory investigation was carried out in four districts of Manipur State. i.e. Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur and Churachandpur. A total of 120 respondents rearing indigenous cattle were selected randomly from these districts. Data pertaining to crucial husbandry and management practices encompassing housing, nutrition, reproduction, healthcare, and general welfare were gathered through the administration of a semi-structured interview schedule. The study indicates that farmers predominantly employed an extensive husbandry system for rearing indigenous cattle. Locally available materials, such as bamboo and wood, were predominantly utilized for constructing cattle shelters. The current study clearly demonstrates that a significant proportion of farmers adhere to traditional methods of husbandry, suggesting substantial potential for enhancing indigenous cattle rearing practices via the implementation of selective breeding programs.

DOI: 10.22271/veterinary.2025.v10.i1c.2011