Diversity and Utilization of Forestry Fodder Resources for Livestock Production in Rural Leh Himalaya, India
F.A. Shah Khan
Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kargil 2, Zanskar, Kargil, Ladakh, India.
M.A. Islam *
Faculty of Forestry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Benhama, Ganderbal-191201, Jammu & Kashmir, India.
Aafaq A. Parrey
Faculty of Forestry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Benhama, Ganderbal-191201, Jammu & Kashmir, India.
G.M. Bhat
Faculty of Forestry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Benhama, Ganderbal-191201, Jammu & Kashmir, India.
Megna Rashid Bakshi
Faculty of Forestry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Benhama, Ganderbal-191201, Jammu & Kashmir, India.
R.A. Mir
Mountain Agricultural Research and Extension Station (MAR&ES), Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Gurez, (Jammu & Kashmir), India.
Kunzes Angmo
School of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, University of Ladakh, Stakna, Leh, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: The extraction of fodder resources from forestry landscapes enhances the diversity of feed, improves livestock nutrition, ensures income diversification, and generates employment for local communities in developing countries.
Aims: This study explores the diversity, distribution, mode of use, frequency of use, and reliance on forestry fodder resources for livestock production, income diversification, and employment generation in the Leh Himalaya.
Method: Structured interviews and non-participant observations were used to gather data from 185 sample households who were selected through a multi-stage random sampling technique from five blocks and nine villages. Descriptive statistics were applied to the data analysis.
Results: The study revealed that 38 forestry fodder resources were collected from 30 genera and 14 families for livestock production; among the 38 species, 35 were herbs, 2 were shrubs, and 1 was a tree. The total collection of fodder from forestry resources was 844.06 tonnes/annum, of which 823.54 tonnes/annum (97.57%) were consumed for subsistence and 20.52 tonnes (2.43%) were traded per annum for cash income. The forestry fodder collection produced 7,090.10 man-days of unpaid employment annually.
Conclusion: Forestry fodder sources constitute a key source of livestock feed, nutrition, safety nets, cash income, and employment. Insights from this study can be used to support forestry fodder conservation, create management plans that complement livestock production, fodder security, poverty reduction, and sustainable livelihoods for rural communities in the Leh Himalaya, and create practical policy recommendations. The findings, thus generated through these approaches, will be used to put forth strategies to keep pace with current development and future challenges.
Keywords: Agroforestry, forestry resources, fodder security, livestock, Leh, Himalaya