Pastoralism
Pastoralism, is an ancient production system of raising animals which continues to be practiced widely across the globe.
Pastoralism, is an ancient production system of raising animals which continues to be practiced widely across the globe. Often practiced on marginal lands where crop farming is difficult pastoralism is sustained by mobility – moving animals from one place to another flexibility -expanding and shrinking herd sizes and migration patterns and variability. In some areas pastoralism complements agriculture. In others it enhances biodiversity and maintains landscapes. It also provides , livelihoods and incomes to millions.
Anthra has worked with pastoralists over 25 years . Through different projects and programmes we have helped bring visibility to their production systems , highlight their crucial role in the livestock economy as well as helped address the challenges they face including pressures to settle climate change, land struggles and poor access to services like health and education.
In 2026, the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralism will highlight the importance of pastoralism, and Anthra is partnering with global initiatives to promote the visibility and significance of pastoralists and the rangelands they inhabit.
Related Projects
Bringing Visibility and Recognition to Women Livestock Farmers and Pastoralists & Their Knowledge.
Location: Maharashtra India Collaboration : Several Partner NGO’s Aim The aim of this project is to document the knowledge which women livestock keepers and pastoralists in Maharashtra have related to livestock rearing systems, livestock produce and processing, livestock breeding and health. This knowledge will be brought out in the form of case studies and detailed … Continue reading “Bringing Visibility and Recognition to Women Livestock Farmers and Pastoralists & Their Knowledge.”
More
The HERDING Research Project
Sustainable development for pastoralist women in India: heritage, dignity and adaptations in times of rapid change Anthra is collaborating with the University of Leeds and the Centre for Pastoralism in a study with and for women from Pastoral communities in India India has a wide range of ecosystems that support mobile animal husbandry and is … Continue reading “The HERDING Research Project”
More
Pastoralists of Maharashtra and Karnataka
We are closely working with different pastoral groups in the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka as part of our larger project to bring visibility to marginalised and invisible livestock rearing communities . In Maharashtra besides the Dhangars we are also closely working with groups such as the Nanda Gawlis, the Melghat Gawlis , the Mathura … Continue reading “Pastoralists of Maharashtra and Karnataka”
MoreMapping Rangelands and Pastoral Landscapes
Grasslands are a neglected landscape in the Indian context. Often termed as barren or wastelands by policy makers, scientists and development professionals, life in the grasslands has been poorly
More
Livestock Products and Livestock Markets in Dryland Areas of India: Emerging Changes and Challenges
This study looks specifically at livestock markets and the informal economy. The project maps livestock markets in the states mentioned. In these markets, we will plot the livestock species, breeds, important products and their flows.
More
Partnering through Knowledge Sharing: Helping Small Livestock holding Communities emerge from the Shadows
The project addresses problems faced by small livestock owners and migratory pastoral communities who are often invisible and unaccounted for. These include groups like the Dhangar shepherding
More
