In rural India, livestock is far more than a source of milk—it is a multi-functional asset deeply embedded in livelihoods, culture and survival strategies. While dairy often gets the spotlight, ground realities reveal that millions of household’s rear animals for a wide range of economic and non-economic benefits. Livestock as a Multi-Purpose Asset: A recent study highlights that around 38% of cattle-rearing households in India do not prioritize milk sale particularly in sm

Integrated Duck–Paddy Farming is emerging as an effective ecological model that enhances rice productivity while improving soil health. Among its many benefits, the practice of allowing ducks to graze in paddy fields plays a significant role in increasing grain yield and boosting soil microbial activity, which are essential for sustainable rice production. This article explores the scientific and practical impacts of duck grazing on both crop performance and soil ecology. I

Soil is the foundation of agriculture, yet in many farming regions soil fertility is gradually declining due to excessive use of chemical fertilizers, poor organic matter management and continuous cropping. This has led to reduced soil productivity, loss of beneficial microorganisms and increasing dependency on costly external inputs. In this context, traditional and natural sources of soil nutrients are regaining importance. Among them, goat and sheep dung stands out as a h