Strengthening Natural Resource-Based Livelihoods: The Success of Goat Farming
One of the standout initiatives undertaken by Ishara Sri Gayatri Vikas Samiti (ISGVS) to empower rural communities has been the promotion of goat farming, which has significantly benefited small and marginal farming households, including landless people, in Lalitpur district, Uttar Pradesh.
Goat Farming Initiative in Lalitpur District
As part of a Livelihood Enterprise Development Program supported by NABARD, ISGVS launched a successful goat farming initiative. In this project, 5 beneficiaries from 3 villages were selected to receive a total of 55 goats. Each beneficiary was provided with 11 goats, including:
- 10 female goats and 1 male goat.
- The goats were between 8-9 months or 10-12 months old.
This initiative aimed to improve the livelihood of the beneficiaries by promoting goat rearing as a sustainable source of income. The selection of beneficiaries was conducted through the Village Watershed Committee, a locally formed group of 11 responsible members from each project village. This committee played an essential role in the transparent implementation of the project and helped ensure its sustainability.
Role of the Village Watershed Committee
The Village Watershed Committee consisted of active members who were passionate about village development and had an interest in the watershed management process. They were nominated by the Panchayat, ensuring a fair and accountable process. Their responsibilities included:
- Selecting suitable beneficiaries for the goat farming initiative.
- Ensuring equitable distribution of goats.
- Overseeing the proper implementation of the project.
Training for Women in Goat Rearing
To ensure the success of goat farming as a livelihood option, ISGVS provided extensive training sessions for 30 women from Lalitpur district. These training programs were designed to equip women with the necessary skills to pursue goat rearing as an entrepreneurial venture. The sessions focused on practical aspects such as:
- Proper goat care (feeding, shelter, health management).
- Breeding practices for improving herd quality.
- Market linkages for selling goats and goat products.
These training sessions not only provided women with valuable skills but also empowered them to become entrepreneurs within their communities, increasing their economic independence.
Impact of the Initiative
The goat farming initiative has proven to be a successful means of improving livelihoods in the region. By providing a sustainable source of income, particularly for small-scale farmers and landless households, this project is contributing to economic stability and self-reliance.
Additionally, the training for women has opened up new avenues for entrepreneurship, boosting the confidence of local women and allowing them to play an active role in the economic development of their communities.
Conclusion
The goat farming initiative under the Livelihood Enterprise Development Program exemplifies the success of natural resource-based livelihoods in rural India. By promoting sustainable agriculture, providing skill development opportunities, and empowering women, ISGVS is helping strengthen the economic fabric of rural communities in Lalitpur district while improving the long-term resilience of families through diversified income sources.