Progress Report

Mobilizing Kachchhi Camel Breeders towards Organizing Structure in Kutch District

Under the centrally sponsored scheme of “ Conservation of Threatend Breeds of Livestock ” “ Conservation of Kachchhi Camels ”

Submitted to Submitted by

Department of Animal Husbandry Sahjeevan Gandhinagar Bhuj-Kutch Government of Gujarat INDEX

Introduction...... 1

Activities carried out during reporting period...... 2

I. Survey of Camel Breeders & Camel Population...... 2

Socioeconomic conditions of Camel breeders in Kachchh.....3

Management Practices for Kachchhi Camel...... 5

Migration pattern of Camel breeders ...... 6

Major Issues of Kachchh Camel breeders ...... 7

II. Mobilizing Camel Breeders for their association...... 7

Taluka level Camel Breeders Meetings...... 7

District level Camel Breeders Workshop...... 8

Village level Meetings for Member Registration...... 9

Taluka level meetings for selection of Executive Committee.. 10

General Body Meeting of Camel Breeders ...... 10

Other Activities under Camel Project...... 11

Future Direction...... 20

Annexure I...... 21 Introduction

Kachchhi camels have its native breeding tract in Kachchh district of Gujarat. It is found in different talukas of the district. According to Livestock census 2003 and 2007 (provisional) the population of Kachchhi camel in Kachchh district was 10477 and 8575 respectively. So, approximately 20 percent decline in camel population was recorded in 4 year. Therefore, it was realized to consider Kachchhi Camel as threatened breed, hence, with the participation of Breeders ,NGOs and Department of Animal Husbandry, Government of Gujarat would function collectively to check further decline in camel population. Hence, the project on “Mobilizing Kachchhi Camel Breeders towards Organizing Structure in Kachchh District” was prepared by Sahjeevan for conservation of Kachchhi Camel. This project was approved under the centrally sponsored scheme, of Conservation of Threatened Breed and routed through Department of Animal Husbandry, Govt. of Gujarat and implemented by Sahjeevan, a voluntary organization working in the field of environmental conservation, Natural Resource Management and promotion of Traditional Livelihood in Kachchh District of Gujarat since 1991. Main mandate of this project was to mobilize Kachchhi Camel Breeders towards formation of their association through capacity building, intense interactions and establishing linkages for services and marketing which would lead to conservation of Kachchhi Camels and check further decline in its population. The specific objectives of this project are as follows:

8 To mobilize camel breeders and formation of Breeders Organization. 8 To facilitate camel health care service and effective vaccination/prophylaxis especially for Surra in collaboration with Dept. of Animal Husbandry and partner NGOs.

8 To understand local knowledge system of camel breeding and identify superior male germ plasm and its supply to breeders.

8 Development of literature for promotion of camel milk use in human diet as it has medicinal value and improved use of camel cart.

8 To arrange camel show during local festivals.

1 Activities carried out during reporting period

I. Survey of Camel Breeders & Camel Population

A Survey was carried out in order to know the existing distribution of Camel breeders in Kachchh district (Table 1), The survey also attempted to know Camel population, camel rearing practices and present issues they face as far as conservation of Camel breeds are concerned. Accordingly a questionnaire was designed and survey was carried out in different parts of Kachchh district with the support of local NGOs who has rapport with camel breeders. Data were collected through interview with Camel breeders individually, as well as through group discussion.

The survey revealed presence of total 319 camel breeders belong to 92 villages spreading over 8 talukas. Mainly, Rabari, Fakirani Jat, Sama, Harijan, Darbar and Notiyar communities rear Kachchhi Camel in the district (Annexure I). It was found that majority of Camel Breeders belong to Lakhpat taluka, followed by Bhachau and Nakhatrana Taluka. Interestingly, during survey, Camel breeders reported to have separate Camel breed locally called Kharai Camel, thus survey was done keeping in view of Kachchhi as well as Kharai camel. Present survey, through discussion with camel breeders, revealed that more than 12000 Camels population, out of which 10335 are Kachchhi Camel and rest 2173 are Kharai Camel is prevailing through out the district. The Kharai camels, which graze on mangroves, are found in four talukas (Mundra, Abdasa, Lakhpat and Bhachau). Of the 319 camel breeders, 72 of them rear more than 2000 Kharai camels. Village and Taluka wise distribution of Camel and Camel breeders are given in Annexure I.

2 Table 2 indicates distribution of Camel breeders in different categories according to their herd size. The survey found that majority of the camel breeders (40.13 %) are categorized in small herder having herd size of 11-30 Camels; followed by 33.54 % medium herder category, 12.86 % Camel breeders have herd size above 60 Camels. It is also noted that 107 out of 319 camel breeders have medium herd size ranging from 31 to 60 camels.

Table 1 Camel Breeds of Kachchh Sr.No Camel breeds Name of Taluka No of Camel of Kachchh Breeders population

1 Kachchhi Lakhapat,abdasa, 247 10335 Nakhatrana,Bhuj,Anjar,Bh achau,Mundra,Rapar 2 Kharai Lakhapat,abdasa, Bhachau, 72 2173 Mundra Total 2 8 319 12508

Table 2. Categories of Camel Breeders Breeders No of Camel Breeders Percentage (%) Marginal(=<10 Camels) 43 13.48

Small(11-30) 128 40.13 Medium (31-60) 107 33.54

Large (61-90) 16 5.02

Very Large(>90) 25 7.84

Total 319 100

Socioeconomic conditions of Camel breeders in Kachchh

Generally, camel breeders in Kachchh do not own land. However, few breeders engaged in dry-land agriculture grow crops like bajara, mag, guar, and math, and zeru and aranda in the monsoon and winter seasons, respectively. During socioeconomic survey (Table 3), it is noticed that 67 % breeders engage in Camel rearing and 37 % involve in both as farming as well as Camel rearing. Most of the breeders are illiterate and have engaged in camel rearing for generations, though today some of the younger generation have left the trade due to lack of interest or in search of higher-income, more stable work. Camels are sold for day-to-day income because markets for wool and milk do not exist. In Kachchh, males from the Rabari and Jat communities predominantly engage in camel rearing, though

3 women from the Jat communities also participate in the livelihood. Camel milk used by breeders for self consumption, for calves and some time they give to patient of Diabetes, T.B, Barol, Cancer and Asthma. So it is indicated that Camel milk has medicinal properties and it could be used widely for incurable diseases by doing some experimentation on Camel milk. In Kachchh, at present, no market exist for Camel wool, most of the breeders use wool for making some items as veno, kurekhi, pariyar, anhoti (for Prevent milking by calves) daman and different thread. Some Rabari breeders give their camels to Jats on monthly grazing charge of Rs. 30 to 50 per camel. The average herd size is 50-100 camels. Most of the breeders receive money on credit at interest rates from 5-10% for rations, animal health care, and their own social lives. Because they only sell camels and not milk or wool products, the money they make goes back to the merchants, from whom they are extended credit, leaving them with little extra income of their own. In this region, camel breeders are very poor and marginalized. Bank loan do not provide to breeders. As a result, breeders migrate widely from one place to another, searching for food and water for their camels. The growth of industrial activities in Kachchh has further minimized the available food and water sources, and salinity has increased throughout the region. Thus, the socioeconomic condition of camel breeders in Kachchh is very terrible and the government should be take necessary steps to improve the situation.

Table 3 Socioeconomic Study Sample Distribution Sr.No No of Total No of Total No Responded village Covered of House Household Village hold 1 92 38 319 113

4 Management Practices for Kachchhi Camel

Housing/Feeding

Kachchhi camels are reared by members of the Rabari, Kandi (Jat), Thakor, Harijan, Notiyar and Sama communities in the district, mostly landless. Extensive grazing practices are followed by the breeders in the district. They do not provide special housing/shelter for their camels. Kachchhi camels graze near village simtal, moving around 10-15 km, on a rotational basis in order to avoid overgrazing. Camels graze on trees like neem (Azadiractha indica), babool (Acacia nilotica), peepal (Ficus religiosa), kharijar (Salvadora persica), mithijar (Salvadora oleoides), Vekado (Maytenus semerginata), mango (Mangifera indica), banyan (Ficus banghalensis), and khijado (Prosopis Cineraria), as well as shrubs such as Layar (Cordia peroettii) arni (Clerodendron phlomidis), chekudi (Launea spp.) and creepers of Cucurbetaceae family (Kakadi, Kareli, Kankodi). Kharai Camels near coastal areas, particularly in Mundra, Lakhpat and Bhachau talukas, also feed on mangroves. During summer season when shrubs and creepers are not available, Kachchhi camels graze on oin (Cressa cretica) lano (Suaedae spp.). Ponds and village cattle troughs are the main sources of water for the animals. An adult camel requires 20- 40 litres of water per day. Generally, the watering time is 12-3 p.m. as per availability and based on distance of source from the grazing area. In discussions with camel breeders of Lakhpat, Mundra, Abdasa and Bhachau talukas, it emerged that grazing land is rapidly decreasing. Camel breeders do not have access to traditional grazing lands, which are now under the jurisdiction of Forest Department. Village gauchar lands are also declining due to encroachment as well as the degradation through lack of community management. Due to heavy industrialization, particularly in Mundra, Lakhpat and Bhachau, mangroves, an important source of food for the Kharai Camels, are drastically reducing. Water sources are simultaneously depleting and seeing an increase in salinity, forcing camel breeders to travel great distances for basic resources.

5 Breeding Practices Breeders follow natural practices for the Kachchhi and Kharai camel. More than 70% of camel breeders have a breeding male for their herd. Breeding males are changed every 3-4 years and new males are brought from outside herds to prevent inbreeding. Sometime breeding males can be hired from Camel breeders from distant areas. Selection criteria for breeding bull include well-built body, hump thickness, body color, thin skin, long and thin leg, size of chest pad, scrotum position, length and development.

Migration pattern of Camel breeders

Kachchhi camel breeders migrate within talukas as well as within the district during stress period (summer & winter) in search of food and water for their animals. Sometimes, they even migrate to outside to the districts/regions of Mehsana, Patan, and Saurastra during particularly severe drought years. In Bhuj taluka, camel breeders from Pachchham move towards west Banni villages (Bhitara, Luna, Hajipir, Bhagadiya and Chachala) due to the greater availability of fodder and water, and come back to their native area in the rainy season. Some breeders from Lakhpat and Bhachau shift to Kiro Hill and the surrounding villages of Chhari Dhandh, a natural wetland. Rabari breeders from Nakhatrana are known to migrate to the Vagad region (Eastern Kachchh) of Rapar taluka, where as breeders from Mundra also migrate to nearby villages bordering the taluka.

6 Major Issues of Kachchh Camel breeders 4 Grazing land/areas are rapidly decreasing. 4 Access is restricted to grazing land under Forest Department jurisdiction. 4 Wetlands, where camels feed on mangroves, are under threat from heavy industrialization along the coast. 4 Water sources are being depleted and seeing an increase in salinity. 4 Lack of health care services and prophylactic measures against some diseases like Trypanosomiasis and Dermatitis. 4 Migration for food and water sources for camels is increasingly common. 4 The new generation has less interest in rearing and is entering different livelihoods for income.

II. Mobilizing Camel Breeders for their association

In order to mobilize Camel breeders of Kachchh district several interventions have been under taken by Sahjeevan. Initially rapport building exercises, such as survey, meetings, and focus group discussions were carried out. Detail processes for mobilization of Camel breeders are described in following sections.

Taluka level Camel Breeders Meetings

Meetings with Camel Breeders were conducted in Lakhpat, Mundra, Bhachau, Rapar, Abadasa and Nakhatrana talukas of Kachchh district to create basic awareness about formation of committee at taluka level in order to organize them. 100-125 camel breeders were attended those meetings and they discussed on why and they can how organize themselves and form talukas level committee. In these meetings, a documentary film “The Return of the Native Breed” was shown to the breeders, produced by LPPS (Lokhit Pashupalan Sangathan) & Moving Imazes. This film highlights value addition process of Camel milk and other products from Camel and its market linkages. Camel breeders were inspired from this film and wanted to go Rajasthan for exposure and training. They also wanted to organize treatment camps for their camel like FMD and HS vaccination is done for Cattle and Buffalo. Such taluka level meeting also brought out critical issues which are faced by them day by day. Camel breeders, as marginalized as their animals, wanted to discuss such issues with the Government. 7 District level Camel Breeders Workshop

District level workshop of Camel breeders was organized by Sahjeevan at district level in which, G.M.Mansury Deputy Director ,Department of Animal Husbandary- Gandhinagar, Dr.S.G.Vankar, Deputy Director-Jilla Panchayat (Bhuj), Mr. Sandeep Virmani, Executive Secretery(Sahjeevan), Dr.K.K Patel, Veterinary Officer(Camel Breeding Farm) and representative of some partner N.G.Os were presented in this workshop. Fifty five camel breeders form 8 talukas participated in this workshop.

Focus group discussion was carried out amongst Camel breeders. Region wise Camel rearing issues were discussed and presented. As presented by Camel breeders regarding presence of Kharai Camel, Mr.Sandeep Virmani, stressed on need of scientific study on Kharai Camel and its characterization. Camel breeders also determined to form their association. They have decided to have male and female members in their association. District Level Meeting With Camel Breeders

After district level workshop, a meeting with Camel breeders was organized at district level. Sixty camel breeders form 7 talukas participated in this meeting. Camel breeders decided that “Kachchh Unt Uchherak Maldhari Sangathan” as, name of their organization in Kachchh. They also agreed for that, breeder family will participate in this organization and further decided membership fee of 50 Rs per member in a year. An ad hock committee, of 14 breeders was formed who represent from different talukas of Kachchh. The Ad hock committee was taken .

8 responsibility to work on constitution of the association. The Ad hock committee requested Sahjeevan to support them in preparing Memorandum of Association, Article of Association. In this meeting, Camel breeders decided following objectives for their association

4 Solution of camel grazing problems 4 Different step carry out for camel health problems 4 Protect and conservation of indigenous plants and forest 4 Establish the market for camel milk, wool and camel selling 4 Strengthening of socioeconomic status for camel breeders

The committee also decided to start collection of membership from Camel breeders with the help of local leaders at taluka level.

Village level Meetings for Member Registration

Meetings with Camel Breeders for membership registration were conducted at Jadva in Lakhpat taluka, Khirsara- Jatvandh in Anjar taluka, Kunjisar and Chobari in Bhachau taluka, Moti charopadi in Abadasa, Vadvabhopa in Nakhatrana taluka, Sanosara and Khavada in Bhuj taluka and Vrajavani in Rapar taluka of Kachchh district to organize members of Kachchh Unt Uchherak Maldhari Sangathan for formation of Breeders' Association at district level. Till now, total 316 Camel breeders (Including both 65.82 % male and 34.18 female) are registered and collected their membership fee during these meetings. Bank account of the association has been opened and membership fees of Rs. 45,000 have been deposited. Camel breeders are organizing themselves with great enthusiasm to work on their issues and solving them. Woman participation has also been observed in village level meetings.

9 Taluka level meetings for selection of Executive Committee

Meetings with Camel Breeders were conducted at Dayapar in Lakhpat taluka, Khirsara-Jatvandh in Anjar taluka, Jangi in Bhachau taluka, Moti charopadi in Abadasa, Vrajavani in Rapar taluka, Bhuj and Nakhatrana taluka level of Kachchh district to decide taluka level Executive Committee for Kachchh Unt Uchherak Maldhari Sangathan. A total 13 members selected for Executive Committee including five women members during these meeting. Meeting of Executive Committee, were organized to decide office bearers, such as President, Vice president, Secretary, Joint secretary and Treasurer for this Sanghthan. Executive Committee decided their office bearers.

Sr.No Name of Breeders Designation 1 Rabari Bhikhabhai President Vaghabhai 2 Rabari Meenaben Hamirbhai Vice-President

3 Sama Umar Haji Secretary 4 Jat Bhachiben Gulmamad Joint Secretary 5 Jat Nurmamad Meru Treasurer

General Body Meeting of Camel Breeders

First general body meeting of “Kachchh Unt Uchherak Maldhari Sangathan (KUUMS)” been organized on 23rd June 2011 at Bhuj. In this event, a total of 185 camel breeders from 41 villages and 7 talukas were actively participated, in which, 25% participants were women (Annexure I). In addition, representatives from GoG, NGOs and Banni Breeders Association were also participated and shared their views and experience on various aspects like camel rearing and ecology, threats and conservation issues. Sh. Bhikhabhai Rabari (President of KUUMS) expressed his view on importance to conservation of Kachchhi Camel breed. He

10 requested NGOs, Universities, Government to help their Sanghthan to recognize distinct Kharai Camel breed as distinct breed. After his lecture, member of Camel breeders association unanimously resolved the following

1. The name of this association is “Kachchh Unt Uchherak Maldhari Sangathan (KUUMS)” 2. Initially the address of KUUMS would be correspondence, “175 / Jalaram Society, Vijaynagar-Bhuj”. 3. Membership of this association and age of member should be of Rs. 50 per year and 18 years, respectively. 4. MOA and AOA were unanimously passed by the members. 5. Name of 13 Executive members were passed

After general body meeting a panel discussion between representatives from government and members of Camel breeders association was held during this event. Sh. Sandeepbhai Virmani (Sahjeevan) was co-ordinate between two groups and also try to bring out important issues for further discussion and debate.

Other Activities under Camel Project A) Participation in National Consultation

Sahjeevan attended National Consultation on “National consultation on Saving the Camel and Rajasthan's Biodiversity” at Khaba, Jaisalmer-Rajasthan organized by Lokhit Pashu Palak Sangstha (LPPS). Participants from Kenya, Argentina, South Africa, Philippine, and various representatives from India including one Camel breeder from Kachchh attended this consultation to share their ideas on how to

11 save camel and camel breeders. This has been very good learning experience, which then shared with other camel breeders through discussion and showing educational materials.

B) Camel Health Camps under the Project During discussion with Camel breeders in different talukas, it was reported that Camel breeders neither provide medicine nor take prophylactic measure for their camels causing serious health problem in Kachchhi and Kharai camel. A camel breeder does not get support of formal services from Animal Husbandry department as compare to Cattle and Buffalo breeders. Trypanosomiasis, Dermatitis/skin infection, Arthritis, Gastro-intestinal problems, abortion and some respiratory infection are major diseases prevailing in Kachchhi Camel. During discussion, camel breeders informed that mortality rate is quite high among calves due to diarrhea, stomach pain, pre-mature birth and underweight of calves. However, few breeders used to keep some common medicine for Trypanosomiasis and Dermatitis/skin infection. Recently, local NGOs, Corporate Agencies are involved in carrying out treatments as well as organize health camps in different taluka of Kachchh.

12 During the reported period, Sahjeevan organized nine Awareness Programme Cum Health camp for Kachchhi and Kharai Camel with help of Department of Animal Husbandry, Gandhinagar and Bhuj at Lakhpat, Nakhatrana, Bhuj, Abdasa and Rapar talukas. Mainly Camel suffered from two diseases like as Trypanosomiasis (Fitoda) and Dermatitis (Khaji). A total 2811 camels treated against Trypnosomiasis (Fitodo), 2191 camels were treated with Dermatitis (Khaji) and 50 Camels were treated for Pnemonia diseases (Table 4). Total 172 camel breeders were participated in those camps and given 10 % contribution of medicine cost for camps. Awareness created amongst different talukas camel breeders for camel health due to such type of camps. They appeal that these types of treatment camps should be organized on regular basis. They have shown their commitment in participation and contribution for organizing such type of camps in future.

Table 4. List of Treatment Camps under the project Sr.No Place of Health camp No of No of camel No of No of Camel treated for Camel Camel breeders Trypnosomi treated treated participated asis (Fitodo) for for Dermatitis Pnemoni (Khaji) a(Chhed o) 1 Umarsar(Lakhapat) 25 168 300 0 2 Veshalpar(Nakhatrana) 20 440 270 0 3 Kotada Chakar(Bhuj) 22 800 800 0 4 Khavada(Bhuj) 15 275 240 0 5 Bela/Khadir(Rapar) 20 527 0 0 6 Thavarbhopa(Lakhpat) 22 248 362 0 7 Mohadi(Abdasa) 17 300 180 20 8 Chharidhandh(Bhuj) 24 53 35 11 9 Vrajvani(Rapar) 7 0 4 19 Total 9 172 2811 2191 50

13 Camel breeder's socioeconomic condition is very poor and they could not sustainable in proper way. They have suffered lots of economic problems due to Camel illness and social condition. Government should take necessary steps for Camel breeders to providing Camel health care facility and lone system for their socioeconomic life. Approximately Camel breeders have expense in a range of 5000 to 10000 Rs for their Camels treatment per yearly. A total 319 Camel breeders were identified in Kachchh through Camel project. Government should be organizing proper strategies for Camel health care and provide medicine support to Camel breeders in Kachchh. A special budget of 50 lakes per year prepare for treatment of Camel in Kachchh district to be allocated by Department of Animal Husbandry, Government of Gujarat.

C) Breed Saviour Award -2010 Two camel breeders of Kachchh (Mr.Rabrakhiya Hajimeran Jat, Morgar-Lakhpat and Mr.Jasha Deva Rabari, Tundavandh- Mundra) has conferred with “Community Conservation of Animal Breeds & Breed Saviour Award 2010”at Madras- Chhennai for their contribution in conserving Kachchhi and Kharai Camel since last two to three centuries. Award ceremony programme was presided by Mr. Achalender Reddy, Secretary of National Biodiversity Authority, Chennai. Cash award of Rs. 10,000 and & certificates have been distributed by Mr. A Reddy, NBA-Chennai to Camel breeders for conserving native livestock breeds in breeding tracts.

D) Participation of Camel Breeders in 4th Banni Pashu Mela

Banni Pashu Mela at Hodko-Banni(Kachchh) have organizing yearly by Banni Breeders Association, Hodko Paryatak Samitti, Department of Animal Husbandry,Gandhinagar and different Kachchh NGOs since last three to four years. 4th Banni Pashu Mela was organized in month of November-2010 at Hodko. Invitation was given to Kachchh Camel breeders for participation in this Mela. 38 Camel breeders from 7 talukas of Kachchh were attended and interacted with other livestock breeders in this Mela. Amongst these breeders, one breeder from

14 Nakhatrana taluka prepared Khir from Camel milk and served to visitor and peoples in mela. Rajasthan camel breeders and representative of LPPS (Lokhit Pashu Palak Sansthan), Jaisalmer-Rajasthan also participated. They prepared Ice-cream from Camel milk at Jaisalmer in their unit and served to visitor and people in mela. Camel Khir and Ice-cream was very popular and sold as hot cake in the Mela. Various Camel wool products were also showed by Camel breeders during the mela.

E) Exposure of Camel Breeders

13 camel breeders from 7 talukas of Kachchh, along with representatives of Sahjeevan have gone to Rajasthan for exposure cum training in the month of January-2011. On the first day, Kachchhi camel breeders visited the Lokhit Pashu-Palak Sansthan (LPPS) camel milk ice- cream unit. There, the breeders learned processes in the production of ice-cream. On the second day, experience sharing meeting was organized in which, Camel Breeders Association of Jaisalmer explained their journey to the breeders of Kachchh. They also detailed out the status of market linkages for camel milk and wool products. The visiting breeders reported their experiences with Kachchhi and Kharai Camel Breeds, and outlined for their critical day-to-day issues they face from limited access to traditional grazing lands and providing health care to the lack of existing market linkages. An LPPS representative spoke about the constitutional framework of association. She also described the process of forming self- help groups (SHG) with camel breeders' families in different clusters of Jaisalmer district. On the third day, camel breeders reached the Bikaner Veterinary College in

15 order to visit the surgery and gynecology departments and the health clinic. Dr. T.K Gahlot, head of the college's department of surgery, made a presentation on health issues and various treatments. For their part, the breeders shared their knowledge of traditional healing methods. Later in the day, the group visited the National Research Centre on Camel (NRCC). Here, the breeders went through the camel museum, which highlights the different products made from camel wool, skin, bone and milk. Afterward, they visited the breeding farm, where the Bikaneri, Jaisalmeri, Kachchhi and Mewadi breeds can be observed. They also viewed the dairy unit and milk parlour, where raw and flavored camel milk and tea were on offer. Kachchh Camel breeders reached Sadari of Pali district on the fourth day. In Sadari, members of LPPS make paper and diaries from camel dung with use of waste cotton. LPPS has recently established the camel dung paper unit. Camel breeders took note of the materials and machineries involved in the process of making paper from Camel dung

F) Shearing training cum competition event for Camel breeders

Sahjeevan has organized shearing training cum competition programme in two clusters (Lakhpat and Bhachau) for Camel breeders. Resources persons from Mitan Handicraft limited, Belgao (Karnataka). Mr. Kamal Kishor and Mr.Gopikrishan imparted shearing training, wool quality, wool products and their market. Camel competition was organized in both clusters. Khamir, a craft based organization has also participated in the programme as they will be involve in camel wool processing and market in future. During the programme, Camel breeders are very excited and competed to one-another for cutting wool and designing on camel for getting a first prize. Amongst Camel breeders, a committee formed for to judge and give first three awards amongst participates. In Camel shearing competition total 20 breeders were participated. Camel breeders wanted that, government to invest on infrastructure for value addition of Camel wool and their product as like Sheep wool.

16 G) National Seminar on Camel

Anand Agricultural University, Department of Animal Husbandry, Government of Gujarat and Sahjeevan collectively organized national level seminar on “Technology Interventions to Enhance Camel Productivity” at Bhuj, Kachchh Dr.K.B.Raval, Joint director, Rajkot, Dr. N. V. Patil, Director,NRCC,Bikaner, Dr. P.P.Patel, Director of Extension Education,AAU, Dr. J.V. Solanki, Dean & Principal,A.A.U, Dr.K.N.Wadhwani, Dr.Parikh,A.A.U, Dr. Sabyasachi Das, CEO, Sahjeevan, Mr.Gunvant Shah and Representative of different organizations, Students, Professors of A.A.U and Research institution attended in this seminar. Sixty four camel breeders form 7 taluka participated in this seminar.

In his inauguration speech, Dr. N.V. Patil said Camel is a useful and profitable animal in dry arid ecosystem. He also spoke about utility of different breeds of Camel in India. He explained about Camel milk products and its medicinal properties. Vaccines prepare from Camel milk, is very effective against cancer and snake poisoning diseases. Camel milk has good source of protein, so its prevent allergy amongst children. Camel milk having insulin properties, therefore, very effective against diabetes.

In this national seminar on Camel the logo of “Kachchh Unt Uchherak Maldhari Sangathan” was lunched by representatives of Camel breeders and delegates.

17 In the technical session of seminar, three papers were presented by different scientists and representative of organization. Paper presented by Dr. Ghanshyam Tiwari highlights role of Camel as draft animal in various ways like fodder cutting, electricity generation, transportation. Mr.Ramesh Bhatti and Dr.Jatin of Sahjeevan presented paper on Kharai Camel, their habitate and grazing system. During the presentation Mr.Ramesh Bhatti shown a video clip of Kharai Camel swimming through sea water during high tied. Another video clip showing Camel grazing on mangroves in the bets. Other than Camel breeders, invitees and participants reacted with full of surprise, as they first time saw Camel to swim. Its breed mostly found in the costal areas (Lakhpat, Bhachau, Abdasa and Mundra) of Kachchh district. Different participate explained that it is new and imaging for us, Camel can swim easily like other sea animals.

Dr. G. M. Mansury, Department of Animal Husbandry,Gandhinagar announced that, Government of Gujarat decided to provide free medicine for two major camel disease like as, Fitoda and Khaji for 10,000 Camel in Gujarat in next year (2011-2012). Breeders were become very happy for such support from Department of Animal Husbandry, Government of Gujarat. Camel breeders appreciated organizers to provide platform to interact with experts and scientist.

H) Camel Cart Reflector Programme Camel Cart Reflector Programme organized at Madhapar(Bhuj) by Anand Agricultural University, Anand and Sahjeevan, Bhuj, Department of Animal Husbnadry,Gandhinagar and Bhuj, Polyclinic,Bhuj, Smast Mahajan,Mumbai and Shuparshva Trust,Bhuj. In this programme, a total 40 Camel cart came to place and attach reflector to prevent night road accident during transportation. Organizer also

18 distributed kit/bag included good, chana and mineral mixture to maldharies for their Camel Cart. During this programme veterinary doctors provide health facility to weak and ill Camel. The owner of Camel Cart said that, after this Camel reflector programme, Camel accident maximum address during night transport. They were also very appreciated from this type of programme and in future they will ready for participate and cooperate for such type of event.

I) Formation of Self Help Group (SHG) for woman empowerment Recently Sahjeevan doing efforts to assessment and new formation of SHG for woman's of Camel breeders in different clusters of Kachchh. Assessment is doing for participation and benefits of women's in different ongoing SHG at Lakhapat and Abadasa taluka by V.R.T.I, Naliya with help of representative of Kachchh Mahila Vikas Sangathan. After assessment from two clusters, Sahjeevan selected two places for forming new SHG for women's of Camel breeders. Sahjeevan wants under the Camel project, increase participation of women's and doing some bank linkage with breeders by SHG to strengthening the breeders association in Kachchh. Now are days, one SHG at Vadavabhopa in Nakhatrana taluka has formed (16 members) and name, member saving fee (50 rs) and objectives was decided for this working group. Also, Dena bank account was opened in Nakhatrana taluka and saved money by the working SHG. Every first day of month, meeting was organized under the SHG activities.

J) Physical Characterization of Kharai Breed After general body meeting, KUUMS, requested Sahjeevan to help them in order to prepare breed descriptor for recognization of Kharai Camel. Therefore, Sahjeevan initiated physical characterization as a process of recognization of Kharai Camel and discussed possibilities of genetic characterization with NBAGR, Karnal and AAU, Anand.

A separate proposal on physical characterization of Kharai Camel has been submitted to Department of Animal Husbandry, Government of Gujarat.

19 Future Direction

= Strengthening of Camel Breeders Association = Characterization and recognization of Kharai Camel = Establish markets for camel products (milk, dung and wool). = Secure regular health services from the government to address common diseases among camels. = Establish Self-Help Groups for women in the Camel breeding communities and linkage with Bank. = In depth study on Grazing areas and interventions on habitat improvement. = Encourage community based conservation of Kachchhi & Kharai Camel and Government and Other institute should invest on that. = Linkages should be establish with research institution, Universities and NGOs in order to increase participation of communities for Development of Kachchhi and Kharai Camel

20 Annexure I

Table 1. Distribution of Camel Breeders with Camel Population and Their Caste. Sr.No Taluka No of No of Camel Caste /Community Camel Villages population Breeders (*) 1 Lakhpat 83 24 3094 Fakirani Jat, Rabari, Notiyar,Darbar 2 Abdasa 27 9 955 Rabari, Jat 3 Nakhatrana 50 18 1702 Jat, Harijan,Rabari 4 Bhuj 47 12 2875 Rabari, Sama,Jat 5 Bhachau 56 8 1239 Rabari,Jat 6 Mundra 22 1 1130 Rabari 7 Rapar 16 12 912 Rabari 8 Anjar 18 8 601 Fakirani jat,Rabari Total 8 319 92 12508 6

* indicate the no of camel population (Kachchhi and Kharai breed) estimated from discussion through Camel Breeders

Table 2. Distribution of Camel Breeders and Kharai Camel Population Sr. No. Taluka No. of Camel No. of Camel Caste Breeders Villages populati /Community on (*) 1 Lakhpat 13 4 560 Fakirani Jat

2 Abdasa 12 4 575 Fakirani Jat 3 Bhachau 43 1 788 Rabari, Fakirani Jat 4 Mundra 4 1 250 Rabari Total 4 72 10 2173 2

* Indicates the Kharai camel population, estimated from discussions with camel breeders.

21 Table 3. List of participants in First General Body Meeting of Kachchh Unt Uccherak Maldhari Sangathan

Sr.No Taluka No of Camel Breeders Male Female Total 1 Lakhpat 43 16 59 2 Nakhatrana 27 11 38 3 Abdasa 11 2 13 4 Bhacahu 27 8 35 5 Anjar 6 3 9 6 Bhuj 22 8 30 7 Mundra 1 0 1 8 N.G.Os 12 7 19 9 Government officers 7 1 8 10 Press 8 0 8 Total 164 56 220

Table 4. List of members of Karobari of KUUMS

Sr.No Name Village/Taluko Designation 1 Rabari Bhikhabhai Vaghabhai Jangi-Bhachau President 2 Rabari Meenaben Hamirbhai Jadva-Lakhapat Vice-President 3 Sama Umar Haji Rabviri-Bhuj Secretary 4 Jat Bhachiben Gulmamad Khirsara,Jatvandh- Joint - Anjar Secretary 5 Jat Nurmamad Meru Khirsara,Jatvandh- Treasurer Anjar 6 Rabari Jiva Kana Sabhada-Lakhpat Member 7 Jat Rabharakhiya Hajimeran Jat Morgar-Lakhpat Member 8 Rabari Valiben Rupabhai Jangi-Bhachau Member 9 Rabari Somabhai Meghabhai Laiyari-Abdasa Member 10 Jat Sakinaben Abdullabhai Aida-Abdasa Member 11 Rabari Valben Ranabhai Ukheda- Member Nakhatrana 12 Jat Hushen Ishmail Jatavira- Member Nakhatrana 13 Rabari Deviben Pachanbhai Sanosara-Bhuj Member

22 Table 5 Socioeconomic Status Study Sample Area

Taluka No of No of Name of Villages Total No Responded total covered of Household villages villages House hold Anjar 8 1 Khirsara 18 3 Abdasa 9 6 Aida, Charopadi, Mohadi 27 11 vandh,Nimri vandh, Laiyari, Meman vandh, Bhuj 12 5 Nana Dinara, Mota Dinara, 47 12 Rabviri, Sarnosara, lodai Bhachau 8 2 Jangi,Chaubari, 56 26 Lakhpat 24 13 Jadva, Junagiya, Sambhada, 83 32 Samajiyara, Ratatalav, Mori, Neredo, Bhadara, Morgar, Dedrani, Odivandh, Dragavandh, Tehro, Mundra 1 1 Tunda vandh 22 7 Nakhtrana 18 5 Ukeheda,Vadva Bhopa, Jatavira, 50 16 Aiyar, Jalu Rapar 12 5 Vrajvani,,Vanovandh,Bela,Balasar 16 6 ,Kuda Jampar Total 92 38 319 113

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