Himachal Scientist Dr. Ankaj Thakur to Present Gaddis Pastoralism Paper at Switzerland Conference

CSKHPKV Gains Global Spotlight with Dr. Thakur's Sponsorship

Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya (CSKHPKV), located in the scenic hills of Palampur, has once again demonstrated its commitment to cutting-edge research in sustainable agriculture. Dr. Ankaj Thakur, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Livestock Farm Complex at Dr. G.C. Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, has been selected for a prestigious academic sponsorship by IFOAM Organics International. This recognition comes through the IFOAM Animal Husbandry Alliance (IAHA), underscoring the university's growing influence in global discussions on organic livestock systems. 72 84

Vice-Chancellor Dr. Ashok Kumar Panda highlighted how such achievements elevate the institution's profile, fostering knowledge exchange and positioning CSKHPKV as a key player in sustainable practices. For aspiring researchers, this exemplifies the opportunities available in Indian agricultural universities, where innovative work on local challenges meets international standards. Explore research jobs to contribute to similar impactful studies.

Dr. Ankaj Thakur: A Dedicated Expert in Pastoral Systems

Dr. Ankaj Thakur joined CSKHPKV in 2017 after earning his BVSc & AH degree. His research focuses on pastoralism, small ruminant science, animal welfare, and livestock housing, with a special emphasis on the Gaddi goat production system. Publications like those on productive performance of Gaddi goats and ethno-veterinary practices reflect his deep engagement with Himalayan herding communities. 85 89

Previously selected for international forums, including the International Society for Applied Ethology, Dr. Thakur's trajectory shows how faculty positions at institutions like CSKHPKV propel careers in global academia. His multi-year fieldwork with nomadic flocks has yielded insights now headed to Switzerland.

The Gaddis: Himalayan Shepherds and Their Ancient Lifestyle

The Gaddis, a Scheduled Tribe primarily in Chamba and Kangra districts of Himachal Pradesh, number around 178,000 as per recent estimates. Known for their distinctive woolen attire and devotion to Lord Shiva, they are semi-nomadic agro-pastoralists who rear sheep and goats, integral to the region's economy and ecology.

Originating possibly from Rajasthan's Bharmaur region, Gaddis follow transhumance—a seasonal migration where flocks move to high-altitude meadows (like Lahaul-Spiti) in summer for lush grazing and descend to lower valleys in winter to escape snow. This practice, passed down generations, sustains livelihoods while preserving cultural identity. 14

Transhumant Pastoralism: Process and Ecological Harmony

Transhumance involves strategic routes covering hundreds of kilometers. Here's a step-by-step overview:

• Winter Base: Lowland villages in Chamba/Kangra (Nov-Apr), grazing stubble fields and crop residues.
• Spring Migration: Uphill trek (Apr-Jun) to bugyals (alpine pastures) at 3,000-4,500m.
• Summer Grazing: High meadows (Jun-Oct), natural foraging on diverse flora.
• Return: Downhill before heavy snow, trading wool, meat, and manure.

This low-input system avoids synthetic inputs, aligning with organic principles by default—no pesticides, antibiotics minimal, relying on natural remedies. 72

Breakthrough Findings: Gaddis Goats as Organic Pioneers

Dr. Thakur's paper, “Pastoral, Low-Input, and Resilient: Recognising Gaddi Goat Transhumance as Organic by Default,” provides empirical evidence from surveys of 32 migratory flocks (over 5,000 animals). Key insights include superior animal welfare through natural movement, biodiversity enhancement via controlled grazing, and climate resilience amid erratic weather. 72 115

Statistics show Gaddi goats achieve reproductive rates of 1.2-1.5 kids/doe annually under nomadic conditions, outperforming sedentary systems due to diverse nutrition.

IAHA Conference 2026: Spotlight on Sustainable Livestock

Hosted at FiBL in Frick, Switzerland (April 28-30), the conference theme—“Organic Animal Husbandry: A Role Model for Future Livestock”—aligns perfectly with Dr. Thakur's work. FiBL, a leader in organic research, will host global experts discussing resilience in pastoral systems. 104

This platform amplifies voices from the Global South, vital as 2026 marks the UN International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP).

Challenges Threatening Gaddi Pastoralism

Despite strengths, Gaddis face hurdles:

• Climate variability: Reduced snowfall shortens grazing seasons, warmer temps degrade pastures. 94
• Afforestation: Plantations encroach high meadows, limiting access.
• Labour shifts: Youth migrate to urban jobs, shrinking flock sizes by 20-30% in decades.
• Diseases and predation: PPR outbreaks, leopards claim 10-15% losses annually.

Studies indicate a 22% cattle rise but sheep decline, signaling transition risks. 60

Conservation Impacts: Biodiversity Stewards

Gaddi grazing prevents shrub encroachment, maintains 200+ plant species diversity. Manure enriches soils naturally, supporting carbon sequestration in fragile ecosystems. Research shows pastoral areas have higher species richness than overprotected forests. 55

Recognizing this as 'organic' could unlock certifications, boosting incomes via premium markets.

Policy Implications and Sustainable Solutions

Dr. Thakur's presentation urges policies securing grazing rights, integrating pastoralism into organic schemes like PKVY. Solutions include elite buck distribution (CSKHPKV supplied 14 recently), veterinary camps, and youth training. 123

Government reports emphasize rangeland restoration for IYRP 2026. For researchers, this opens grants in scholarships and career advice.

Future Prospects Amid Global Shifts

As climate pressures mount, hybrid models blending tradition with tech—like GPS tracking migrations—offer hope. CSKHPKV's role in breeding resilient Gaddi strains positions Himachal as a model. International exposure could spur collaborations, enhancing food sovereignty.

Professionals eyeing vet or agri research should check university jobs at CSKHPKV-like institutions. In conclusion, Dr. Thakur's work illuminates how ancient practices fuel modern sustainability. Stay engaged with Rate My Professor and higher-ed jobs for more insights.