Causes and Consequences of Livestock Rearing During Fallow Period of Crop Production As Perceived By the Farmers

Abstract

There are several favorable factors for livestock rearing, as well as some compelling issues that encourage coastal dwellers to adopt livestock rearing as an alternative means of livelihood. The study examined the causes and consequences of livestock farming during the fallow period of crop production as perceived by farmers. Data were collected from 111 villagers of Assasuni Upazila under Satkhira District from May 8 to December 23, 2021. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Farmers’ perceptions regarding the causes and consequences of livestock rearing were considered the dependent variables, while twelve selected characteristics of the respondents were considered the independent variables of the study. Most of the respondents had a clear perception of the causes of livestock rearing. Paddy was cultivated once a year, while the land remained fallow for the rest of the year, which was identified as the main cause of livestock rearing. Almost all respondents (98.2%) had a high level of perception regarding the consequences of livestock rearing, while the remaining 1.8% had a medium level of perception. Most of the respondents (92.8%) faced highly severe problems, while the remaining 7.2% faced severe problems. Shortage of feed for cattle during the cropping season, lack of nutritious fodder, and inadequate medical treatment were identified as the major problems. Knowledge, training received, cosmopolitanism, and extension media contact showed significant relationships with farmers’ perceptions regarding the causes, consequences, and problems associated with livestock rearing. Based on the findings, it was recommended that relevant authorities, including the Department of Livestock Services (DLS), Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), and NGOs, should take initiatives to promote and popularize livestock rearing among rural people as an alternative livelihood activity.