Impediments of Yak Farming: Opinions of Brokpas from Sakteng

Abstract

This study was conducted to understand and document different factors affecting yak rearing practices in Sakteng block under Tashigang district. In total, 60 yak rearing households were randomly selected and interviewed, using a semi-structured questionnaire to gather desired information. The results indicated a decline in yak rearing households by about 38% over the past five years. The major factors reported were high incidence of mortality from a locally known disease called “Rhimney”, inadequate pastures, and labor shortages to manage the herd that contributed to the decline in yak farming. About 90% of yak mortality as reported by 40% of respondents was attributed to Rhimney. About 40% of respondents reported inadequate pastures as a cause of decline in yak population and yak farming, and the remaining 20% of respondents reported labor shortage to manage herd as the major concern affecting yak rearing. There was a contradicting response from the respondents on the average yak herd size maintained at the household. It was recorded that about 60% of respondents reported a decline in yak herd size, 23.4% of respondents reported yak herd size to be static, and 15% of respondents reported an increase in yak herd size over the years. Considering a decline in yak population and yak farming households over the period, it is time to undertake appropriate policy interventions to make yak farming attractive and sustainable.