HINGOLI

Livestock rearing has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years, shifting from conventional, resource-dependent methods to modern, technology-driven practices. Traditionally, raising animals required manual labor and a fundamental understanding of their needs. Early livestock and poultry farming were primarily for survival, supporting daily activities such as farming and dairy production. Poultry was mostly raised in backyard systems, with little human intervention in breeding. Natural insemination was the norm, and animal diets relied on what nature provided—grazing on wild grasses for cattle and insects or food scraps for poultry. This method kept costs low, as there was minimal investment in feeding and healthcare.

However, in today, livestock and poultry farming are no longer just about sustenance—they have become profitable economic ventures. With advancements in genetics and selective breeding, cattle now produce higher milk yields, and poultry breeds grow faster with better meat quality. Scientific feeding practices have replaced the old grazing methods, with precise nutritional calculations ensuring that animals receive optimal diets for growth and productivity.

The shift towards commercial livestock farming has introduced several technological advancements:

Poultry Farming: Modern poultry sheds are well-designed to provide a controlled environment, ensuring the health and productivity of birds. Regular vaccinations are now a standard practice, protecting flocks from diseases. Hatcheries with a capacity of 50 to 100 eggs allow for systematic and large-scale chicken production.

Livestock Farming: The use of milking machines has revolutionized dairy farming, significantly reducing labor costs and time while improving hygiene and efficiency.

Sheep Rearing: The introduction of trimmers for wool shaving has streamlined the shearing process, making it faster and more efficient.

The Hingoli City Veterinary Hospital serves 14 villages within a 12 km radius, including Hingoli, Balsond, Belwadi, and Karwadi. Despite these facilities, low farmer awareness remains a major challenge, with delays in recognizing and treating animal diseases often leading to severe health issues and fatalities.

Other veterinary services in the district include Ashwin Pet Care Clinic, Dr. Bhadekar Abhimanyu Pet Clinic, Government Veterinary Hospital Khadkeshwar, Sudarshan Vet Clinic, and Dr. Sudhakar Patil’s clinic in Basmat.

Key issues faced by farmers:

• Disease-related low productivity: Illnesses like mastitis sharply reduce milk yield in cattle, buffaloes, sheep, and goats. Regular testing and treatment are essential to prevent economic losses.
  
• Freemartinism: Female calves born as twins with a male sibling become sterile, offering no breeding or milk production value.
  
• Aging livestock: Older animals produce less milk, creating economic challenges. Though slaughter of unproductive animals is prohibited, it still occurs in some areas.
  

Farmers are increasingly focusing on better healthcare, improved breeding practices, and government schemes to manage unproductive livestock humanely and reduce financial losses.