Role of livestock interventions in enhancing goat and backyard poultry farming among rural farmers of Bankura, West Bengal

Abstract

The present study entitled “Impact of Livestock Interventions in Enhancing Goat and Backyard Poultry Farming among Rural Farmers” was conducted by team of Professional Assistance for Development Action (PRADAN) across nine village groups in the Bankura district of West Bengal. Livestock rearing, particularly goat and backyard poultry farming, constitutes a vital component of livelihood for tribal and smallholder farmers in the region, where limited landholding poses a significant constraint to agricultural income. The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of targeted livestock interventions in improving herd and flock size, and thereby strengthening rural livelihoods. The findings revealed a significant positive impact of the interventions on both goat and backyard poultry production systems. The overall mean number of goats increased markedly from 2944.44 in the baseline year to 6192.22 in the target year, demonstrating a statistically significant improvement (p = 0.018). Similarly, backyard poultry population exhibited a substantial rise, with the mean number increasing from 4967.22 to 13687.78, which was also statistically significant (p = 0.011). These results indicate that the implemented interventions effectively enhanced livestock productivity and asset creation among rural households. Furthermore, the interventions contributed to increased household income, improved nutritional security and greater empowerment of rural women. The study concludes the potential of livestock-based interventions as a sustainable strategy for livelihood enhancement and socio-economic development of selected villagers of Bankura, West Bengal.