Livestock in Agroecology: an action research project to document and share different ways livestock contribute to promote agroecology

This project looks at agro-ecological practices related to livestock species normally overlooked by policy and research in the country as well as in areas that are neglected by mainstream development processes. The two species selected are buffalo and duck. The project is working with the Van Gujjars in Uttarakhand in the North, the Gawlis in Maharashtra both of who rear buffalo and with duck rearers in South India. Youth have been identified from the communities who under a fellowship program are documenting their local practices, local livestock and skills related to rearing them. Good practices related to livestock care and management as well as challenges are being documented. Small pilots will be designed along with collaborating institutes and the local groups in a participatory way. The results of the pilots will be shared at a workshop where scientists, development professionals, researchers, pastoralists and farmers will be present. The practices will be documented as videos, articles and case studies for wider dissemination through multiple platforms.