Production Problems and Potentials of Livestock Sub-system in the Hills of Nawalparasi District

Livestock are an important component of agricultural systems in the mountains and hills of Nepal. This study examined the present practices of livestock production systems in 12 Village Development Committees (VDCs) of Nawalparasi district through a formal survey and participatory rural appraisal techniques. Livestock management and production systems were mainly analysed to identify problems and opportunities for further improvements. Results showed that cattle, goat and pig were found dominating livestock species across the study area. All of the breeds were indigenous and their productivity was very low. Animals were used for draft power and mainly manure, very few for milk and meat production. However livestock number sharply declined over the past two decades mainly due to forest degradation and shortage of feeding materials. Realising the role of livestock in the agricultural system, its improvement programs are essential for the sustainable livelihood of people residing in the study area.