DOI: https://doi.org/10.21276/AATCCReview.2025.13.02.33

Abstract

The research investigation was carried out in a hyper hyper-arid partially irrigated
western plain zone (Ic) of Rajasthan. Selected zone covered viz. Jaisalmer, Bikaner and some
parts of Churu districts. On the basis of the highest sheep population, Jaisalmer sandBikaner and
Bikaner district were selected for this research study.150 sheep farmers were chosen from each
district and 10 sheep farmers from each village were included in the proportional random sample
used to choose the respondents. With the use of a structured questionnaire, 300 sheep, a mix of
small, medium, and large sheep farmers were questioned. Under the objective 'measure the
contribution of sheep in the economy of sheep farmers ' the findings showed that the cost of feed
and fodders, concentrates, salt and mineral mixture, labour costs, veterinary expenses, and other
miscellaneous costs, as well as interest on fixed capital and capital depreciation, were all used to
help with the economic analysis. The total returns from sheep rearing, including wool, manure,
milk, and sales of animals (lambs, ewes, rams, etc.) were also included. Results shows that the
overall economic contribution from sheep rearing, as perceived by respondents was 43.00 per
cent in Jaisalmer and 42.07 per cent in Bikaner for small sheep farmers. For medium and large
sheep farmers, the contributions were higher, with medium farmers reporting 49.54 per cent in
Jaisalmer and 47.36 per cent in Bikaner. Large farmers reporting reported 58.49 per cent in
Jaisalmer and 56.98 per cent in Bikaner districts. Thus, it could be inferred that sheep enterprise
contribution contributes about 42.07 to 58.49 per cent in to the economy of sheep farmers in the
hyper hyper-arid partially irrigated western plain zone (Ic) of Rajasthan.

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