Khejri-A Boon for Goat Rearing in Arid and Semi-Arid Regions of Rajasthan

Indian agriculture is largely a mixed farming economy, wherein agriculture is practiced along with livestock. Among the livestock goat rearing is most common in small and marginal farmers. Goats can adapt themselves in almost all types of agro-climatic conditions arid western part of Rajasthan. It requires less space and maintenance and is mainly a browser on leaf and twigs of certain tress species grown in arid and semi-arid areas of Rajasthan. Khejri is one of most preferred tree species used as a fodder for goat because it provides nutritious fodder during acute shortage of green forage. Inclusion of Khejri in feeding will reduce the cost on feed and make the goat rearing a more profitable option. Beside fodder values Khejri also acts as shelter and protector of the goats, therefore, it can rightly be said about Khejri that it is a boon for goat rearing in arid and semi-arid regions of Rajasthan.