Published Paper Details:

ABSTRACT Goat farming is a significant agricultural activity in Namakkal district, Tamil Nadu, contributing substantially to the livelihood of small and marginal farmers. Sustainable goat farming practices are essential to ensure the long-term viability of this activity. This article discusses the best practices for sustainable goat farming in Namakkal district, focusing on selecting suitable breeds, improving genetic quality, and implementing breeding programs to enhance productivity and providing high-quality fodder, ensuring adequate nutrition, and promoting grazing with supplementation and implementing regular vaccination, parasite control, and veterinary care to maintain goat health and developing market linkages, improving price fixation, and promoting value-added products.The study further assesses the profitability of goat farming through cost and returns analysis and identifies major constraints faced by farmers such as inadequate veterinary services, fluctuating market prices, feed scarcity, and limited credit availability. The findings indicate that goat farming significantly supplements household income, enhances food and nutritional security, and provides substantial self-employment opportunities, especially for women and marginal farmers. Sustainable goat farming practices can improve productivity, income, and livelihood security for farmers in Namakkal district. Government support, extension services, and farmers' organizations play a crucial role in promoting these practices.