The Livestock Census has been conducted in the country periodically since 1919-20. The Livestock Census covers all domesticated animals and its headcounts. So far 19 such censuses have been conducted in participation with State Governments and UT Administrations. The 20th Livestock Census was conducted in participation with all States and Union Territories. The enumeration was done both in rural and urban areas. Various species of animals (Cattle, Buffalo, Mithun, Yak, Sheep, Goat, Pig, Horse, Pony, Mule, Donkey Camel, Dog, Rabbit and Elephant)/poultry birds (Fowl, Duck, Emu, Turkeys, Quail and other poultry birds) possessed by the households, household enterprises/non-household enterprises and institutions have been counted at their site. Animal husbandry is a major economic activity of the rural people, especially in the arid and semi- arid regions of Rajasthan. Development of livestock sector has a significant beneficial impact in generating employment and reducing poverty in rural areas. Livestock is the best insurance against drought and famine and generate gainful employment in rural areas of Rajasthan. Rajasthan is the largest state of the country with geographical area of 3.42 lack sq. km. The state has about 11.27 per cent of country's total livestock population and contributes over 81.50 per cent of camel population, 16.03 per cent of goat population, 13.95 percent sheep population, 11.94 per cent of buffalo and 6.98 percent of cattle population during 19th livestock census in the country. Contribution of buffalo in total milk production is 52.71 per cent with a net increase of 0.77 percent over the previous milk production, followed by indigenous cattle (28.63 per cent), goat (12.22 percent) and cross bred cow (6.44 per cent). Livestock rearing is an integral component of the economic and social fabric of the rural masses in Rajasthan. Since crop farming is constrained by erratic rains and limited irrigation facilities, livestock is an adjunct farm enterprise in most parts of the state especially in arid areas. About 55 percent of the total area of the state is under Thar Desert. Animal husbandry comes to the rescue as a measure to alleviate the effects of frequent droughts and by providing sustainable year-round income to the farmers.

Keywords: Livestock, Milk, Animal husbandry, Dairy JEL: Q11, Q13.