Bovine Livestock and Dairy Production in Osmanabad (Dharashiv) District, Maharashtra: A Study of Cow and Buffalo Population Dynamics

Abstract

Livestock rearing, particularly of cows and buffaloes, plays a crucial role in sustaining rural livelihoods in Osmanabad (Dharashiv) District of Maharashtra. Situated in the drought-prone Marathwada region, the district’s agricultural economy depends heavily on dairy production as a stable and income-generating activity. This study analyzes the population structure and milk production trends of bovines using secondary data from the 20th Livestock Census (2019) and Press Information Bureau milk statistics (2017–2022).

Findings reveal that cows and buffaloes together account for nearly 60 percent of the total livestock population, with cows forming the dominant group. The district’s milk production declined during drought years (2018–19 and 2019–20) but rebounded sharply in 2020–21, reaching 476.67 thousand tonnes in 2021–22 due to favorable rainfall, crossbreeding programs, and cooperative dairy initiatives. Despite the progress, major constraints include fodder scarcity, water shortage, and limited veterinary infrastructure, which continue to restrict per-animal productivity.

The study emphasizes the need for breed improvement, fodder development, veterinary outreach, and women-led dairy cooperatives to strengthen the sector. Sustainable dairying practices and climate-resilient livestock management can transform Osmanabad into a leading milk-producing district within Marathwada.