Author(s): Mayur Pawshe, SM Kolangath, RM Kolangath and Alka Sawarkar

Abstract: Akkalkuwa is a tribal tehsil situated in northern Maharashtra. The economy is primarily agrarian and animal husbandry is an important subsidiary occupation. Goat farming is an important subsidiary occupation in this region. A study was carried out to ascertain the mortality pattern and avenues of losses among the adults and the kids. The losses were classified under two distinct heads, viz. losses due to loss of life and losses due to loss of production. The underlying causes of the incurred losses were ascertained by questionnaire and available records from four veterinary hospitals. The study was carried out in 64 villages across Akkalkuwa tehsil which had a goat population of 1000 and above. Diarrhoea, Pneumonia, Navel ill, tetanus were important causes of loss of life in kids while diarrhoea, inter-partum related events, pneumonia, chemical toxicity, accidents and thefts were important causes in adults. Diarrhoea stands as the most important cause of death in adult goats and kids. The estimated losses due to loss of life and loss of production are significant, kid mortality alone leads to an estimated loss of Rs. 1.7 million per annum while adult mortality leads to losses valuing Rs. 12.01 million per annum. The losses due to loss of production due to abortion and still births were estimated to Rs. 5.5 million per annum. To contain these losses there is an immediate need to bring awareness, education, extension, participation in prophylasis, scientific management into practice.

DOI: 10.33545/26174693.2024.v8.i6Sg.1368