Socio-economic Characteristics of Small Scale Buffalo Farms in Tanamalwila Area in Moneragala District of Sri Lanka
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Indonesian Center for Animal Science Research and Development (ICARD)
Abstract
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A household survey was conducted, interviewing 100 buffalo farmers in fourteen Grama Niladhari divisions (GN) in Thanamalwila area to identify the present status of buffalo farming to improve the socio-economic status as well as to improve the livelihoods. Results reveal that direct involvement of males (100%) was the prominent feature in this farming system while involvement of females was negligible. Among respondents, 80% farmers were between 21-50 ages while 30% were between 21-30 ages. Three types of breeds (Indigenous, Murrah and Nili-Ravi) and there crosses were existed. Major system of management was extensive (90.71%) followed by semi-intensive (7.41%) and intensive (1.85%). Herd size ranged between 12-251 heads. Mostly natural breeding was practiced. Calving interval ranged from 12-30 months. Age at firstcalving was more than 42 months was 82% of buffalo herds. It was found that 24.22% ±4.8 of total herd consisted of male with an atypical herd composition with 4.481±4.192 excess bulls than the requirement. Income was mainly generated through selling of raw milk and lives buffaloes. It can be concluded that there is a chance to convert buffalo farming as economic venture in Thanamalwila area. Active participation of females, and younger generation should be ensured. As well as provision of technical knowledge is vital to make the industry is a profitable venture.
Keywords
Socio-Economic; Buffalo; Small Scale; Sri Lanka