Socio-economic Impact of Technological Interventions on Sheep Farming Productivity

Abstract

Aims: The study aimed to assess the impact of technological interventions on sheep farming productivity and farmer livelihoods in Krishnagiri district, Tamil Nadu. The primary objectives should be improved production and profitability of sheep farming. Methodology: A benchmark survey of 200 sheep farmers was conducted to identify production challenges. Fifty farmers were selected for targeted interventions, prioritizing women and marginalized groups. The interventions included introducing improved rams to reduce inbreeding, strategic supplementary feeding during flushing, pregnancy, and lactation, hydroponic fodder and Azolla supplementation, ethno-veterinary first aid training, and improved marketing strategies. Farmers underwent training, and the impact was assessed through productivity and economic indicators. Key Findings and Discussion: The interventions significantly improved reproductive efficiency and lamb growth. Conception rates increased from 50–60% to over 80%, while prenatal nutritional support enhanced birth weight and weaning weight by over 20%. Lactation-phase supplementation led to a 15% increase in postnatal lamb growth. Farmers observed a reduction in lamb mortality and faster weight gain, enabling earlier market sales. The introduction of improved rams and better nutrition resulted in increased meat yield and profitability. Ethno-veterinary practices improved flock health, and training enhanced marketing efficiency. Farmers reported higher incomes, selling more animals per cycle and reducing rearing costs. Conclusion: Strategic technological interventions significantly enhanced sheep farming productivity and farmer income. Improved breeding, nutrition, and health management practices resulted in better reproductive efficiency, lamb survival, and economic gains. The study highlights the importance of integrating scientific innovations into traditional sheep farming systems for long-term sustainability and rural development.