Zalawadi goat farming is common, especially in the areas where this breed is available in India. It is a multi-purpose breed which is raised for many different purposes. It is actually used for meat, milk and fiber production in it’s native area.
The Zalawadi goat breed is actually from the Surendranagar, Rajkot regions of Gujarat state in India. And it is one of the major goat breed in Gujarat (it is known by it’s local name Tara Bakari in Gujarat). But today the breed is also available in some other areas in India.
In the native area of Zalawadi goat, the breed is raised by the traditional shephered community known as Rabaris and Bharwads locally in the semi-arid area of Sourashtra region.
It is also believed that the Zalawadi goat breed was originated from the former ‘Zalawad’ region, which is now known as Surendranagar district and part of Zalawad falling in Rajkot district.
Along with the availability in the native area, the Zalawadi goats are also available in the adjoining area of Jamnagar and Ahmadabad district (but in less number). The Zalawadi goat breed compromises around 27.8 percent of total goat population in Surendranagar.
In the native area, the Zalawadi goats are generally raised under extensive grazing management system with flock size ranges from 15 to 200 goats.
The Zalawadi goat is a multi-purpose breed and it is raised for meat, milk and also for fiber production. So commercial Zalawadi goat farming business can be profitable if you can manage the goats perfectly.
How to Start Zalawadi Goat Farming
Starting Zalawadi goat farming business is just like starting a goat farming business with any other domestic goat breeds. These animals are naturally very strong and hardy animals and their caring process is relatively easy.
Here we are trying to describe everything about starting and operating a Zalawadi goat farming business from purchasing animals to caring and marketing.
Purchase Goats
First of all, try to purchase very good quality healthy and disease free goats from any of your nearest livestock market or existing farms.
You can ask for help from an expert while choosing and purchasing animals. You can also search your local online classified websites.
Housing
Good and comfortable housing or shelter system is required for Zalawadi goat farming business. A good house or shelter not only keeps the animals healthy but also helps them to stay safe from predators and adverse weather.
So, try to make a good house or shelter for your animals. Like many other domestic Indian goat breeds, the Zalawadi goats also prefer clean and dry place for living. So, making a raised house (which is above from the ground) is considered good for Zalawadi goat farming business.
Install good ventilation system and ensure flow of sufficient air and light inside the house. And make the house in such a way so that you can easily clean the house. As a medium sized breed, a Zalawadi goat will require around 12 square feet housing space.
Feeding
Feeding the animals with good quality and nutritious food is the most important part of Zalawadi goat farming business. So always try to feed your goats with enough good quality foods. Goats generally love both greens and grains, so provide them both.
The Zalawadi goats also require some vitamins and minerals for proper growth and good health. So contact an experienced vet in your area for better recommendation. And always try to provide your goats with enough clean and fresh drinking water as per their demand.
Breeding
The Zalawadi goats are naturally very good breeders. And generally natural breeding is practiced for Zalawadi goat farming, instead of artificial breeding. One mature healthy buck is enough for breeding around 30-35 does.
Caring
Along with providing the goats with good shelter and good food, they also require additional caring for better growth and good health.
So try to take good care of your animals. De-worm and vaccinate them timely and keep good contact with a vet.
Marketing
Marketing goat products is not a problem, and you will easily be able to sell your goats in your local market. Goat products have very good demand and value in the market.
So you will be able to sell your products in the local market easily. Although, you should set your marketing strategies before starting this business.
These are the common steps for starting and operating a successful Zalawadi goat farming business. Hope this guide has helped you! Good luck & may God bless you!
