Diversification of Livelihood from Animal Waste and by-Product for Small and Marginal Farmers in India

Background: Utilization of livestock waste and by products are always considered to be an important source of livelihood for environment protection and agricultural development. The study explores the prospective scope of livestock waste utilization by dwelling into the livestock holdings and their health profile, waste management and bio-security practices for sustainable livelihoods of small and marginal livestock farmers of tribal belts. Methods: With an empirical survey, an analysis is made on the waste management practices in selective states of North East India (Assam, Meghalaya and Nagaland). The percentage and average method were applied to understand the management practices of pig production system. In the qualitative tools mainly Focused Group Discussion (FGD) and Interview methods were used to understand the perception of people on waste management. Result: It is found that the untreated waste is utilized in field and only 2% of farmers use the manure in pisciculture where waste is used in its integrated form. A comprehensive model of treating and marketing the livestock waste and by products with the application of modern technology can not only contribute in augmenting the income but will also help in quality restoration of natural resources in rural areas.