Participation, Satisfaction, and Transportation Challenges among Livestock Owners at the Pashu Pradarshini during Kisan Mela, India

Abstract

Aims: The study aims to assess participation patterns, satisfaction levels, and transportation-related challenges among livestock owners attending the Pashu Pradarshini organised during the Kisan Mela at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology (SVPUAT), Meerut. Study Design: Exploratory cross-sectional survey. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted during the annual Kisan Mela organised at SVPUAT, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India, in October 2024. Data were collected during the first two days of the three-day Kisan Mela, corresponding to the period during which the Pashu Pradarshini was conducted. Methodology: A complete enumeration of 40 livestock owners participating in the Pashu Pradarshini was included in the study. Data were collected through personal interviews using a pre-tested semi-structured schedule. Information on socio-economic characteristics, livestock management practices, participation behaviour, satisfaction with facilities and services, and transportation challenges was recorded. Satisfaction was measured using a three-point scale (Most Satisfied, Satisfied, and Not Satisfied) and analysed through weighted mean scores (WMS). Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and weighted mean scores, were used for analysis. Results: Most respondents practised mixed farming (90.0%) and reared both cattle and buffaloes (70.0%). Social media and WhatsApp groups were the major sources of information (62.5%), while 70.0% regularly attended similar events. Animal showcasing was the primary purpose of participation (100.0%), followed by learning about new practices and products (57.5%). Cleanliness and sanitation of the Mela grounds ranked highest in satisfaction (WMS = 2.90), followed by water accessibility for animals (WMS = 2.85) and event scheduling (WMS = 2.78). Resting facilities for owners received the lowest satisfaction score (WMS = 1.70). Transportation-related stress or injury to animals was reported by 52.5% of participants, while high transportation costs and long travel distances were reported by 30.0% each. Conclusion: The Kisan Mela served as a platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and service delivery among participating livestock owners. The findings indicate that improvements in owner amenities and transportation support may enhance participant satisfaction and accessibility at similar events.