Camel Production Profile in Desert Ecosystem of Thal, Punjab

Abstract

: A study was planned to evaluate the production profile of Marecha camel maintained in desert ecosystem of Thal area, Tehsil Mankera of District Bhakkar, the Punjab. Different husbandry practices, milk production, calf rearing and the constraints faced by the Thal pastoralists affecting the camel production and management were studied through a pre tested questionnaire. A total of 100 farmers were interviewed by using a single-visit-multiple-subject diagnostic survey. Most of the camel herders were keeping Marecha camel. According to the farmer’s responses, the living status of camel herders has improved and the major source of income is the sale of milk, meat, animals and crop cultivation. Many of the herders kept their camels in semi-open housing system and took them for grazing from morning till evening along with stall-feeding. The mean daily milk yield was found to be 5.62±0.27 kg. Birth weight of male and female calves was found to be 37.96±0.55 and 32.39±0.22 kg, respectively. Calf mortality, traditional way of husbandry practices, poor extension services, lack of attractive market and value chain services were the major constraints affecting camel production. Survey indicated that camel herders are more inclined towards ethno-veterinary practices than approaching the nearby veterinarians. Based on survey and constraints collected, some remedial measures have also been suggested.