Question

Explain in brief the role of animal husbandry in human welfare.

Answer 1

Role of animal husbandry in HUMAN WELFARE

1. In Dairy Products:

Mammalian livestock can be used as a source of milk and dairy products such as yoghurt, cheese, butter, ice cream, etc.

2. Meat:

It is the production of a useful form of dietary protein and energy.

3. Land management:

The grazing of livestock is sometimes used as a way to control weeds and undergrowth. For example, in areas prone to wild fires, goats and sheep are set to graze on dry shrub which reduces the risk of fires.

4. Fibre:

Livestock produce a range of fibre/textiles. For example, sheep and goats produce wool and deer and sheep can make leather.

5. Labour:

Animals such as horses, donkey and yaks can be used for mechanical energy. Prior to steam power, livestock were the only available source of non-human labour. They are still used for this purpose in many places of the world, including ploughing fields, transporting goods and military functions.

6. Fertilizer:

Manure can be spread on fields to increase crop yields. This is an important reason why historically, plant and animal domestication have been intimately linked. Manure is also used to make plaster for walls and floors and can be used as a fuel for fires. The blood and bones of animals are also used as fertilizer.

According to a survey, about 70% of world’s livestock population is in India and China. Despite this huge production, their contribution to the world farm produce is only 25%, i.e the productivity per unit is very low. Therefore, to improve quality and increase the productivity, there is a need to apply new technologies, in addition to the conventional practices of animal breeding and tare.