Sheep & Wool Development/Pattern of Rearing

Sheep and goats are reared by Semi nomadic pastoral (Gaddi) community. Out of total sheep population 30% is migratory and 70% is stationary. The stationary flocks are taken out in the forest area and village grass lands for grazing during the day along with goats and cattle or alone and is brought back in the evening for rest and shelter at night. Depending on area of availability flock are provided with cheap houses with thatch roof made of locally available material and thorny fences. Migratory flock which constitute large No. of sheep per flock owing to lack of grazing facility and snow fall during winter, are driven on foot to the foot hills of shivalik ranges with in the State and bordering areas of Uttar Pradesh and Punjab for winter grazing. In summer months flocks are taken to alpine pastures of inner Himalayas.

The Himalayan summer pasture is perhaps most important factor in economy of Gaddi community since it considerably –

•  Reduces cost of maintenance

•  Helps flushing the breeding stock.

•  Improves the quality and Quantity of fleece and the market of lambs.