Livestock is the cornerstone of Balochistan’s economy, serving as one of the most historical and indigenous commercial activities in the region. Rooted in the province’s nomadic and semi-nomadic traditions, livestock rearing — sheep, goats, cattle, and camels — has provided livelihoods for generations.

It not only meets local dietary and agricultural needs but also contributes significantly to trade; wool, meat, hides, and dairy products form the key components of rural commerce. Despite limited infrastructure and harsh climatic conditions, livestock remains an integral part of the cultural and economic fabric of Balochistan, reflecting both resilience and traditional expertise.

Balochistan is still largely a pastoral economy, where crop farming is not sustainable due to water scarcity. Given the arid environment and vulnerability to climate shocks, especially the devastation of agricultural products brought by the persistent droughts of 1998 to 2022, experts suggest that reviving livestock as the primary commercial activity would be more beneficial for the sustainable development of the province.

With around 34 million goats and sheep and 6.5m bovines, Balochistan holds Pakistan’s largest small ruminant and fourth-largest bovine population — about 30 per cent of the national total. Livestock is vital to the province’s socioeconomic development, providing livelihoods, nutrition, and income, particularly for rural........

© Dawn Business