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M Atif Ismail
MULTAN, Jan 11 (APP):Sheep rearing is emerging as one of the most reliable livelihood options for rural households due to its low input cost, steady income potential and strong market demand, said Dr Jamshaid Akhtar, senior veterinary officer (Ahmedpur East), while talking to APP regarding the benefits of sheep farming.
Referring to sheep as a “walking ATM of farmers,” he said sheep represent a symbol of prosperity because they generate regular income through the sale of animals and their products. Sheep grow well on locally available resources and require comparatively less investment than other large ruminants, which makes the venture especially suitable for small and marginal farmers, women and landless labourers, he added.
According to Dr Jamshaid Akhtar, sheep are multipurpose animals providing meat, wool, skin and milk, while their higher lambing rate ensures a good flock turnover and a seasonal flow of earnings. He observed the livestock also serves as “insurance against crop failure,” helping families cope with losses during droughts, floods or other climatic stresses.
He said sheep farming creates employment opportunities in rural areas through breeding, feeding, marketing and processing activities, while sheep and their by-products are easily marketable at the local level. Low-input feeding based on pastures and farm by-products further reduces production costs, making sheep rearing a sustainable option even in resource-poor settings.
The senior veterinary officer advised farmers to focus on proper vaccination, timely deworming, clean drinking water, and simple housing to prevent disease outbreaks and ensure healthy flock growth. He also urged farmers to maintain breeding records, improve genetics through selective breeding and connect with livestock departments for technical guidance and training.
With rising demand for mutton in urban and rural markets alike, Dr Jamshaid Akhtar said that organized sheep rearing could significantly improve household income, strengthen food security and contribute to the rural economy