ABSTRACT
Sheep and goat rearing constitute an integral component of the rural economy in Mandya
district, Karnataka, providing livelihood support to small and marginal farmers. These small
ruminants contribute significantly to meat, wool, milk, and manure production, thereby
enhancing agricultural diversification and nutritional security. This conceptual study explores
the status, trends, and challenges of sheep and goat farming in Mandya district. It analyses
population changes, breed composition, farming systems, economic returns, and major
constraints, while also proposing strategies for sustainable development.
As per the 20th Livestock Census (2019), Mandya district reported approximately 3,47,133
sheep and 3,46,430 goats, with modest growth rates of 1.62% and 0.01%, respectively.
Prominent breeds include the indigenous Bannur sheep and improved goat breeds such as
Kanni Adu and Sirohi, which align with Karnataka’s state breeding policy. Farmers employ
traditional, semi-intensive, and intensive rearing systems, each with distinct economic
outcomes. Intensive systems yield higher profits — approximately ₹4,186 per goat and
₹3,983 per sheep annually — but demand substantial investment and management.
The study identifies persistent challenges such as feed scarcity, disease outbreaks, poor
marketing infrastructure, and climatic stress. It recommends promoting semi-intensive
systems, expanding breeding and veterinary services, improving fodder availability, and
strengthening market linkages through cooperative structures. With appropriate institutional
and policy support, sheep and goat husbandry in Mandya district has strong potential to
enhance rural incomes and contribute to sustainable agricultural growth.
Keywords: Livestock, Bannur Sheep, Kanni Adu, Sirohi, Sustainable Livelihoods