Seasonal shepherd migration a boon for farmers and fields

As shepherd families from higher altitudes migrate to lower regions, farmers in the district welcome the event with open arms. The herds of goats and sheep, descending from snow-covered hills, rejuvenate farmlands with their manure, significantly enhancing soil fertility and crop productivity.

Over 50 shepherd families travel to the district annually from remote villages in Bharmour (Chamba), Baijnath (Kangra), and Joginder Nagar (Mandi). Prem Singh, a shepherd from Holi in Chamba, arrived with his family and 500 animals after a month-long journey. He shared that while they usually camp in forests, farmers often invite them to stay on vacant fields, paying Rs 500 to Rs 2,500 weekly, depending on herd size.

Kartar Singh, a farmer near Salauni, explained that fields are left vacant annually on a rotational basis for goat herds. He highlighted that the animals not only provide manure but also soften the soil with their hooves, further aiding cultivation. Prakash Chand, another farmer, noted that goat manure is more nutrient-rich than cow or buffalo dung. A herd of 200 goats can enrich two kanals of land in a week.

The mutual arrangement benefits both parties: farmers receive natural fertilization for their fields, while shepherds gain shelter and additional income. Prem Singh mentioned his family would camp in the area for three months before returning to the hills in March.

This age-old practice exemplifies a sustainable and symbiotic relationship between the shepherding and farming communities, enhancing both livelihoods and agricultural productivity.