Srinagar, Dec 31 (KNS): Chogal village in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district continues to rely almost entirely on livestock-based livelihoods, producing around 25,000 kilograms of milk daily, even as cattle-rearing traditions decline in many parts of the region, officials said.
According to official data, the village has a cattle population of nearly 4,500, including about 2,700 milk-producing animals. Most households own at least one cow, making animal husbandry the primary source of income for residents.
Livestock Development Officer Dr Wajahat Afzal Wani said around 250 quintals of milk are produced daily in the village, of which 40 to 50 quintals are used to prepare Chogal cheese, which has seen growing demand in the market.
He said government schemes such as the Integrated Dairy Development Scheme (IDDS) and the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) have played a key role in improving livestock productivity.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelNearly 50 IDDS units have been provided in the village over the last two to four years, helping introduce high-yielding cattle and increase milk output.
Dr Wani said three satellite purpose units have also been established to strengthen veterinary and development services in the area.
He added that the sexed semen scheme, implemented in coordination with the concerned government commission, has resulted in female offspring in about 95 percent of cases, contributing to the steady growth of quality livestock.
Officials said livestock rearing remains the backbone of the local economy in Chogal, with dependence on animal husbandry reaching nearly 100 percent in the village.(KNS).