Study of backyard goat rearing in rural areas of Durgapur in Netrokona District

Abstract

The study investigated the performance of goats and livelihood generated through backyard goat rearing in nine different villages in Durgapur, Netrokona District, Bangladesh, for about 1 month. The data uses a pre-configured questionnaire containing information on the demographic and socioeconomic status of household farmers, livestock, age, sexual maturity, litter size, weight, housing system, grazing, breeding objectives, vaccination and deworming history, and production record. The average birth weight was 0.79 kg, the weaning weight was 3.93 kg, the mature weight was 21.82kg, and the average weight gain was 140 g in the growing stage. Participants reported an average monthly income of approximately BDT 20,173.08 (mean), with a standard deviation of BDT 4,444.52. Mortality among livestock was reported by 21.15% of participants, with the remaining 78.85% not facing such losses. Regarding deworming practices, 50.00% of participants indicated following recommended deworming procedures, and only 6 farmers vaccinated their goats. Housing, feeding, and breeding were maintained on most of the farms, but health care and biosecurity needed to be better. Rooted in the intricate fabric of rural Bangladesh, this study's insights call for targeted interventions that acknowledge the unique context and priorities of the community, fostering sustainable economic upliftment and resilience. Through the multifaceted prism of goat rearing, this research champions the enduring spirit of rural farmers and their transformative role in shaping Bangladesh's evolving rural landscape.