Community Livestock Manager (CLM): A Rural Youth who can act as change agent and social entrepreneur

The Community Livestock Manager is a technically trained and dedicated youth for small livestock, either male or female, who actively participates in livestock farming within rural communities. Their primary objective is to expand and enhance their livestock business, and they undergo extensive training to effectively support and collaborate with Pashu Sakhies (Livestock Nurse) while facilitating connections for input and output services. This multifaceted role entails being both a livestock business entrepreneur and a service provider. As they gain experience and expertise, Community Livestock Managers may eventually assume the responsibility of managing the Community Livestock Business Center/Farmer Producer Org. (FPC/FPO) and operating it on a self-sustaining basis.

The role of a Community Livestock Manager encompasses several key responsibilities. First and foremost, they are actively engaged in livestock farming, employing their knowledge and skills to ensure the successful rearing and management of various livestock species. They work closely with Pashu Sakhies, providing them with guidance and support to optimize their animal husbandry practices.

Furthermore, Community Livestock Manager act as social entrepreneurs by identifying opportunities for growth and diversification within the livestock sector. They utilize their training and expertise to develop innovative strategies for expanding their business, such as exploring new markets, introducing value-added products, or implementing efficient production techniques.

In addition to their entrepreneurial endeavors, Community Livestock Manager serve as services providers within their communities in the cluster. They establish and foster strong linkages with suppliers of livestock inputs, such as feed, seeds, medicines and equipment’s. Similarly, they facilitate connections between livestock farmers and potential buyers, enabling them to access markets and sell their products at competitive prices. By serving as intermediaries, Community Livestock Manager play a vital role in strengthening the overall livestock value chain.

As the Community Livestock Manager gains experience and demonstrates their capabilities, they may progress to managing the Community Livestock Business Center/ Farmers Producer Company (CLBC/FPC). This center serve as a hub for various livestock-related activities, providing essential services and resources to farmers. The manager takes the responsibility of overseeing day-to-day operations, coordinating with various stakeholders, managing finances and ensuring the center’s sustainability on a cost-recovery basis.

In a nutshell, the role of Community Livestock Manager is crucial in institution building and operation, where they play a pivotal role in livestock farming, entrepreneurship and services. Through their dedication, knowledge and collaborative efforts, they contribute to the overall development which leads to prosperity of the livestock sector while empowering rural youth and fostering sustainable agricultural practices to address unemployment and migration at some point also.

Functions of Community Livestock Manager:

• Develop the capacity of Pashu Sakhies (Livestock Nurses) to deliver livestock services efficiently and provide backup support for input & output linkages.

• Counsel and guide livestock farmers to optimize the production of livestock.

• Facilitate Shepherd’s School to make farmer aware on improved management practices like balanced feeding, proper breeding, low-cost effective housing & sanitation.

• Help farmers to plan for appropriate crop and livestock species to maximize resource use and enhance farm economics.

• Demonstrate Pro-Poor low-cost technologies in the field in association with Pashu Sakhi. Motivate and enhance access to preventive measures and provide real time last mile doorstep first aid services at affordable cost.

• Initiate input & output business linkages for livestock farming on a cost-recovery basis. CLM also help farmers keep basic production records and access the business.

• CLM demonstrates and manage their own livestock farms.

Potential Employers:

• Micro Finance Institutions (MFI) have a significant livestock loan portfolio.

• Government led livelihood development projects (NRLM, SRLM, AHD projects)

• Non Government organizations working in livestock based livelihoods.

• Commercial Livestock Farms

• Village Panchayats as Livestock-based Livelihood support providers.

Entrepreneurial Initiatives:

• Small scale goat/sheep/backyard poultry farms

• Livestock breed traders & suppliers

• Freelance livestock primary health service providers

• Freelance trainers for Government and Non Government livestock projects

• Livestock Input (Feed/Medicine/Fodder Seed etc) suppliers