Dairy Enterprise: Source of Livelihood Security in Tal Region of Bihar

Abstract

Dairy enterprise significantly contributing to the livelihood security in the Tal area of Bihar. Serving as a major source of income, particularly due to flood during monsoon season and the undulating low-lying area with the stagnant water, that leave the farmers with no other choice than to adopt alternative means of livelihood. Hence, this study investigates the profitability and reasons for practicing dairy farming as an alternate source of livelihood sustainability. Primary data were collected using Simple Random Sampling without Replacement technique (SRSWoR) making a sample size of 90 farmers practicing dairy. The data were analyzed using cost and return concept alongside Garrette ranking technique to identify the factors influencing for dairy farming practices in Tal region, Bihar. The research found that majority of the farmers were practicing cattle rearing, relying heavily on dairy farming for their livelihood with over 50 per cent of income derived from it. The return to cost ratio obtained from crossbred cow milk and buffalo milk were 1.39 and 1.34, respectively indicating a return of 0.39 paisa and 0.34 paisa per rupee of the investment. The outcome suggested that the primary motivation for engaging in dairy farming was the prolonged waterlogged condition in the Tal region, which was not conducive to crop yield throughout the year (Garrett score 77). Additionally, dairy farming allow for the absorption of disguised family labour and represents a tradional livelihood for the people of Tal.