3. Role of Livestock in Indian Economy

♤ Output functions such as source of edible (milk, meat, egg) and non-edible (wool, leather, hides) products.

♤ Input functions such as providing draught power (bulls/oxen), dung, urine etc. in crop production.

♤ Economic functions by providing steady income - being the source of milk, meat and eggs almost round the year.

♤ Risk Coverage in case of crop failures or other disasters and are considered as 'Banks on hooves'.

♤ More equitably distributed compared to land, thus has more potential for increasing farmers’ income. Rapid growth of the livestock sector can be even more egalitarian and inclusive than growth of the crop sector because those engaged in it are mainly small holders and the landless.