Effect of Human Resource Development on Livestock Production in District Chitral, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan(A Study Conducted by Agha Khan Rural Support Programme)

Abstract

A study was conducted to examine the effect of Aga Khan Rural Support Program on human resource development particularly on livestock management in district Chitral. Study was conducted in three-community organizations in village Charun, Tehsil Mastu, Chitral. A total 120 respondents were randomly selected for interview, 98 beneficiaries and 22 non-beneficiaries. Almost 100% respondents were landowners, cultivating a land of about two kanal and were satisfied with training component of AKRSP, about 47% were literate. The enrolled respondents were 50.2% of the age 33-45 years and 30.1% of the age 46-58 years. Farming was main occupation of 64% beneficiaries, 29% adopted as secondary occupation and 8% having not even the secondary occupation. The rest were engaged in other services like business, labor etc., while majority having annual income ranging from RS. 34600 to 45600. About 45% respondents applied training information and found it useful. Collectively observed 47% increase in livestock size and 24%-improved breed was used as AKRSP had provided a jersey bull for crossing with local breed. The after effects of the study resulted in improved managemental practices which caused remarkable development like enhanced production and increased income of the beneficiaries i.e. up to 62%, changes in farming practice up to 19% and up gradation in occupation of 65% beneficiaries. Besides improvement in the size of livestock holding and milk production, medication and vaccination reduced animal mortality and disease out breaks. The study showed that diseases can be controlled and income could be improved if inputs and credit are provided in the areas of concern.