Sustainable livestock management through indigenous technical knowledge

Abstract

Indigenous knowledge (IK), or traditional knowledge, refers to the wisdom, practices, and innovations developed by local and indigenous communities over generations. Transmitted orally, it is based on observation, experience, trial and error, and the instinctive understanding of local environments. These practices provide a holistic and practical approach to livestock management, particularly in communities with limited literacy, covering areas such as animal husbandry, agriculture, health care, fisheries, and environmental management. Indigenous technical knowledge (ITK) in animal husbandry is as old as livestock domestication itself. It offers cost-effective, sustainable, and location-specific solutions for animal health, reproduction, and productivity. Protecting ITK not only supports rural livelihoods but also contributes to the national economy. Preservation efforts should include documentation of practices, conservation of medicinal plants, and support for farmers in cultivating these resources. In India, ITK has been used for managing livestock diseases, wound healing, diarrhoea, foot-and-mouth disease, improving body condition, and treating fractures. However, much of this knowledge remains undocumented and is at risk of extinction. Systematic documentation, scientific validation, and policy support are urgently needed to preserve ITK. Safeguarding and promoting these practices will ensure their continued relevance, support sustainable livestock management, and benefit future generations.