CHANDRAPUR

Chandrapur district is located in the Eastern part of Maharashtra, bordered by Gadchiroli to the East and Nagpur to the North. Chandrapur is rich in coal reserves, particularly in the Wardha Valley Coalfield, and is home to one of India's largest superthermal power stations. The district is often called the "rice bowl" of Maharashtra. It produces significant amounts of paddy and other crops like cotton and pulses. In this chapter, we will dive deeper into the livestock-rearing industry in the district while trying to find its cultural significance in the region, too.

Livestock rearing is a vital part of Chandrapur district’s agricultural economy, supporting rural livelihoods through cattle, buffalo, goats, sheep, and poultry.

• Cattle: Total population ~396,000, mainly non-descript breeds (over 360,000). Used for milk, dung, and draft power. Around 77,000 cows supply local dairies.
  
• Buffaloes: ~87,000, with locals preferring their richer milk. Buffalo farming is a key part of the dairy sector.
  
• Goats: ~313,000, valued for low maintenance and dual-purpose milk and meat production.
  
• Sheep: ~50,000, primarily non-descript breeds raised for meat (with some wool production).
  

Livestock rearing remains essential for the district’s economy and rural sustainability.

Poultry farming is one of the most common and economically stable livestock activities in Chandrapur. The district has a total poultry population of 672,089, with 75,671 commercial poultry birds housed across 757 units. Additionally, backyard poultry farming is widespread, with 596,418 birds in 5,964 units. Farmers rear chickens and ducks for both meat and egg production, providing them with a consistent income throughout the year.

One of the oldest and most reputable poultry farms in the district is Chandrapur Poultry Farm, which has been operating for decades. It is known for supplying high-quality poultry birds and eggs to local and neighboring markets. This farm follows modern biosecurity measures, vaccination schedules, and proper nutrition protocols to maintain productivity. Apart from commercial poultry farms, many small-scale farmers operate their own poultry houses, playing a crucial role in meeting local demand for poultry products and supporting rural households.

Over the years, farmers in Chandrapur have had to deal with various challenges. The most troubling of these challenges was the increasing conflicts with wildlife. Chandrapur is fairly close to the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, which is home to both tigers and leopards. Farmers living near these areas have faced tiger and leopard attacks on livestock that have become relatively frequent than earlier. These attacks have induced fear into the farmers, leading to them becoming extra vigilant. Many farmers have stopped allowing their livestock to graze in the open and started feeding them in closed sheds. Farmers are not only having to change their livestock-rearing practices but also their agricultural ones. They have had to stop producing the Rabi crop in the winter season out of fear that wild boars will destroy the crop. The community of farmers has come together to face this challenge that has arisen after the success of Project Tiger. Villagers take turns in late hours guarding crops and livestock for not only their farms but also those nearby.

The district is not just faced with the danger of wildlife, but also faces the results of overgrazing and climate change. Green patches for grazing have decreased, resulting in increased costs of dairy farming.

However, farmers are adopting various technologies to improve animal husbandry, such as improved breeding techniques with the use of Artificial Insemination. Portable ultrasound machines, although expensive to get, are starting to make vet services more accessible in the region. To combat the loss of livestock and to keep a keen eye, farmers have also started to use RFID tags on their cattle.

Gaigodhan: While celebrating the festival of Diwali, the first day is Narak Chaturdashi, the second day is Dhantrayodashi, the third day is Lakshmi Pujan, the fourth day is Bali Pratipada, and the fifth day is Bhaubij. Cows are worshiped on the day of Balipratipada. On this day, the cow is bathed and decorated. Dung mold (mother gowri) is prepared in the yard, and rangoli is drawn on it. On the day of Govardhan Puja in Diwali, cows are decorated with 'Gonda' on their horns. They are taken to a pasture to graze and then brought to the village to the sound of the band.

Tadoba Festival: Relatively recent to any other festivals celebrated in the region, the Tadoba Festival was inaugurated in 2024 to promote wildlife conservation, sustainable tourism, and local heritage in the district. Kavi sammelans (meets of poets), sessions on man-wildlife interaction, and fun games were organized in the fest, which is intended to be celebrated every year.

The Gonds in the district rear animals. However, the Kurmar community that is recognized in the OBC schedule has also engaged in livestock farming alongside agricultural activities.

One of the primary healthcare facilities for animals in the district is the Government Veterinary Hospital, located in Chandrapur TPS. This hospital serves as a key center for treating livestock and pets, offering a range of veterinary services. Another important facility is the Veterinary Hospital in Babupeth, situated on Chor Khidaki Road. Known for its efficient services, it provides medical care for a variety of animals. For pet owners, Care Pet and Animal Clinic, located near Agrasen Bhavan, is a trusted place offering dedicated care with an attentive staff.

In addition to hospitals, several veterinary clinics cater specifically to pets, ensuring quality treatment and preventive care. Amit Pet Care Center, situated in Bazar Ward, is a well-known clinic offering a variety of services for domestic animals. Alone Vet Polyclinic is another notable facility, recognized for its excellent infrastructure and personalized attention to pets. For pet owners seeking specialized care for their dogs and cats, PetYaari Veterinary Dog and Cat Clinic is a go-to option, focusing on the health and well-being of companion animals.

• Watsalya Pet Clinic
• Care pet and animal clinic
• Pyaar Foundation Animal welfare NGO & shelter