The province of Baluchistan composes about 44% of the total geographical area of Pakistan and only 5% of its area is arable, the rest consisting of arid and semi-arid rangelands. About 80% of the population is rural and, for various reasons, economic development is lagging behind the rest of Pakistan. Nevertheless, Baluchistan is rich in cultural diversity and traditional knowledge – one of its greatest resources consisting of a large number of livestock breeds that have been developed by its pastoralists and farmers.
Each tribe and community has its own habitat with specific characteristics and developed breeds that are adapted to these and are able to live in the hard and arid environment of the province. These breeds are a source of food and income, besides providing a means of coping with desertification and climate change. Value-addition could contribute to generating additional income and thereby contribute to peace in the region.
Unfortunately, many of these livestock breeds are disappearing, before even being properly documented. Among the threats are war and conflicts, epidemic diseases, urbanization and increasing sedentarization, cross breeding, lack of valuation, increasing competition for natural resources, environmental degradation and global warming.
A study is required that provides an overview of the indigenous livestock breeds of Baluchistan and their respective development potential. The study should:
- describe the breeds from the perspective of pastoralists and farmers;
- analyse their current economic importance;
- describe existing marketing channels;
- consider their future economic potential and needs for development inputs in order to develop their inherent potential;
- since Baluchistan is also known for its camel breeds, a special focus on this species would be desirable and should also consider its position in the context of the larger region, i.e. in light of the demand for camel products in the Gulf countries as well as general camel development trends in the arid zone extending from Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Western India.
The purpose of the study would be to provide background information for future sustainable livestock interventions in Baluchistan.
A maximum budget of € 5.000 is available for this study.
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