The Relationship Between Livestock Income and Food Security: A Case Study of Jhal Magsi, Balochistan, Pakistan

Abstract

The study gives an overview of the possible contribution of livestock to food security in Jhal Magsi, Balochistan. Since livestock is a key factor in boosting rural households’ income, livelihood and improving their living conditions.  Therefore, the study used primary data collected via well-organized questionnaire from 200 households from various areas of Jhal Masgsi. The result of the study shows that small farmers extensively depend on livestock as key source of income generation. In addition, livestock plays an important role in satisfying the basic needs of food requirements of many families in Jhal Magsi like other rural areas. Henceforth, livestock provides fundamental protection against food insecurity. Furthermore, livestock cultivation also provides income opportunities to households to invest on family: education, health and housing ultimately improve the living standard of family. However, orthodox and dogmatic methods, lack of knowledge and lack of veterinary clinic facilities lead to affect the productivity of the animals. Therefore, the government is called on to provide farmers with the necessary facilities of financing and veterinary services to improve their income, lives and food availability. In addition, livestock may be one of the potential solutions to poverty and malnutrition in backward areas such as Jahal Magsi.

Keywords: Livestock, Food Security, Livelihoods, Jahal Magsi and Balochistan

DOI: 10.7176/DCS/9-2-05