PARBHANI

According to locals, cattle in the district primarily consist of indigenous breeds like the Deoni, valued for both milk production and draught work. The Khillari breed is mainly used for draught purposes. Additionally, crossbred cows are common and preferred for their higher milk yields compared to native breeds.

Parbhani district has a well-distributed network of veterinary facilities, including Veterinary Polyclinics, Veterinary Dispensaries (State and Local Sector), Primary Veterinary Aid Centers, Insemination Centers, and Artificial Insemination Sub Centers.

Some of these veterinary hospitals and clinics include:

• Government Veterinary Hospital, College of Veterinary and Animal Science Rd
• Parbhani Pet Clinic, Basmath Road
• Vetypedia, Dargah Road

The Parbhani APMC (Agricultural Produce Market Committee) Market stands as one of the largest livestock trading centers in the district, facilitating the sale of various animals, including cattle, buffaloes, goats, and poultry. It operates under regulated conditions to ensure fair pricing and transparency in transactions.

Another notable market is the Gangakhed Market, recognized for its trading activities and serving as a key point for livestock sales in the southern part of Parbhani. Additionally, the Jintur Market plays an important role by providing farmers with access to buyers from different regions.

In the district, two other prominent cattle markets are located in Pingli and Akhadabalapur, which are essential for cattle dealers traveling from afar.

According to the Parbhani District Gazetteer (1967), the district had a tropical climate and abundant water resources, with the Godavari River and its tributaries supporting various fish species. The local fish market, established in 1982, became an important center for fish trading, with around 14 shops offering more than 20 different fish species. Catla catla was a popular choice among consumers, while wild species such as Channa (murrels) and Mastacembelus armatus (Bam) were in high demand despite their limited availability.

Traditional fishing methods in the region included cast nets (phekjal), drift nets (yela and kandala), drag nets (pandya, payewadi, pockhe, and caattu), and hook and lines (dawan and dor). However, with time, modern fishing equipment became more common, reflecting changes in the industry.

The main fishing communities in Parbhani district were the Kahar-bhoi, Bratikwar-bhoi, Machhindra-bhoi, Nilawar-bhoi, and Koli, all of whom were Hindus. Outside the villages along the Godavari River, the fishing population was dispersed throughout the district. Since fishing did not provide full-time employment, many individuals from these communities also engaged in agriculture and other minor occupations to supplement their income.