Working Papers

This study has been to examine: (1) the changes over time in population, density and composition of draught animals in Gujarat, (2) the distribution of draught animals in Gujarat across different categories of households according to the size of operational land holdings, (3) the utilisation of draught animals in Gujarat, and (4) the pattern of regional distribution of draught animals in Gujarat and causes thereof. This has been attempted through the analysis of the available secondary data and a village level case study. Some of the findings are as follows. ?? Gujarat is one state where the population of draught animals has been declining in contrast to the increasing population of draught animals at the national level. The present density of draught animals in Gujarat is only about half of the national average. This has, however, not resulted into better utilisation of the available draught animal power in the state. ?? Within Gujarat, the distribution and density of draught animals has a distinct regional pattern. The three distinct regions that emerge in this regard are (1) Kachchh & Saurashtra peninsula, (2) North-West Mainland Gujarat, and (3) South-East Mainland Gujarat. The variation in the density of draught animals across these regions can be explained to a considerable degree by the size of operational holding, the level of tractorisation and source of irrigation. ?? A kind of balance and complementarity appears to be evolving in the use of animal and tractor power farm operations. Markets for custom-hire of both animal and tractor power are becoming more prominent which is expected to lead to more efficient use of both sources of power.