Socio-Economic Contribution of Donkey and Mule Rearing in Haryana (India) – A Review

Animal husbandry plays a vital role in growth of agrarian economy in Haryana and role of livestock is very important for livelihood in the state (Haryana). Equine (Equidae) is a major component of livestock having its four sub groups i.e. horse, pony, donkey and mule. Equine is integral part of animal husbandry as well as agriculture found worldwide and equine power is known equal to engine power. Donkey and mule are major parts of equine family and mainly reared for load carrying, cart pulling and are used as pack animals in Haryana. A great decline has been observed in donkey population during last few years in the state. As per census done by DADF (GOI) donkey population was 63000 in 1997, 8000 in 2003, 4838 in 2007, 2903 in 2012 and 800 in 2019 the state. Similarly decline was also observed in mule population and as per census done by DADF (GOI) mule population was 35000 in 1997, 14000 in 2003, 10600 in 2007, 9009 in 2012 and 2499 in 2019 in Haryana. Mechanization, ignorance of policy makers and social taboo are major factors responsible for decline of population of these animals in Haryana.