To ascertain the present status of goat rearing in Goa, an investigation was undertaken through a research project “Investigation on the present status of Goats” by ICAR Research Complex for Goa during 2001-2006. Observations indicated that the demand for meat and meat products is increasing. Goat is mainly reared in the Ghat section viz. Bicholim, Pernem, Satari, Quepem and Canacona Talukas.
In most of the places, the particular community is rearing goats as their traditional occupation. They live as tenants and some are nomads. Awareness about the Government schemes is very poor and the farmers are reluctant to approach the officials. The majority (62.25%) are landless labourers. Some rear other livestock like buffaloes for milk and work as farm labourers during the summer season.
Income from goat units ranges from Rs. 800-1500 and from labour RS.1500-Rs.2000 per month during the season. Goat rearing is a part-time occupation combined with seasonal labour work and crop cultivation in many places. In Volpoi area the herd strength ranges from 10 to 90 animals combined with crop cultivation. In Pernem area, goat units with 15 to 40 animals are common. Cashew cultivation is their part-time seasonal occupation. In some units goat farming is the only source of income and their herd strength ranges from 50-300 animals.
A Goat unit was established in Krishi Vigyan Kendra of this institute to study the management practices. Osmanabadi and local non-descript goats were maintained for crossbreeding. Leaf and dry fodders collected from the grazing field were analyzed for the chemical composition to ascertain the nutrients available for goats through grazing.
Source-
- Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Ela, Old Goa, Goa
