FARM program has been working since 2013 to empower smallholder farmers in Northeast India and recently seen a worrisome change in the region’s agriculture landscape. The farming community that has traditionally relied on local livestock for supplemental income has started giving preference to exotic breeds.

The community of Niz-Sohori, one of the remote villages in the Nagaon district of Assam have adopted this new change due to lack of quality livestock, rising costs of animal rearing, and the growing preference for exotic breeds.

In reality, exotic breeds often proved unsuitable for the local environment, resulting in increased maintenance challenges and losses. Indigenous breeds, on the other hand, are naturally adapted to the region’s climate, require minimal care, and offer a steady source of milk, meat, and manure. Despite these advantages, they were largely overlooked due to limited awareness and support.

Caritas India’s FARM Northeast thematic desk, through its partner Guwahati Gana Seva Society (GGSS), has introduced an innovative Livestock Bank Program to address these challenges. This initiative seeks to revitalize livestock farming, conserve biodiversity, and enhance farmers’ incomes by prioritizing indigenous breeds. Aligned with the government’s ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, the program promotes sustainable agriculture and builds resilience to climate change. By focusing on indigenous livestock, FARM Northeast is preserving local biodiversity and empowering smallholder farmers with a sustainable and reliable source of income.

The Livestock Bank Program operates on a unique model where farmers raise livestock individually while functioning collectively to maximize income and resources. This approach has led to significant improvements in farmers’ livelihoods. Farmers now earn substantial annual incomes from pigs, poultry, and cow milk, with figures reaching up to Rs 50,000 for each category. The program has strengthened community ties and empowered women, who traditionally managed livestock but often lacked recognition. Improved nutrition through the availability of milk, meat, and eggs has enhanced the quality of life in the village.

FARM Northeast’s approach goes beyond just livestock management. The program integrates sustainable farming practices that contribute to climate change adaptation. GGSS arranges training on sustainable livestock management, health care, and organic farming practices. Manure from livestock is repurposed for organic farming, reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers and enhancing soil health. The focus on indigenous breeds promotes biodiversity conservation and helps maintain the ecological balance of the region, making the communities more resilient to climate change impacts.

The program’s success is best illustrated through the experiences of farmers like Suntara Pator. Initially struggling with limited income, Suntara received two goats from the Livestock Bank. With minimal effort, the goats thrived, providing manure for her vegetable garden and significantly boosting her family’s income. Today, she trains fellow farmers, advocating for indigenous breeds and sustainable practices. “My family’s income has doubled, and we’re eating healthier food than ever before,” Suntara shared, highlighting the tangible benefits of the program.

“When we first introduced the idea of a livestock bank, there were concerns. Many farmers were hesitant to switch back to indigenous breeds. But as they started seeing the benefits—lower costs, better health, and steady income—their enthusiasm grew. This program is more than just livestock; it’s about helping communities take control of their livelihoods while preserving their natural resources. Watching farmers like Suntara lead this transformation has been incredibly rewarding,” Shares Prabin Minz, Field Program Associate from GGSS while reflecting on this initiative.

The Livestock Bank Program has transformed Niz-Sohori Village, proving that community-driven innovation can address economic, social, and environmental challenges. By leveraging the resilience of Indigenous breeds, it has uplifted livelihoods, conserve biodiversity, and created a sustainable support system for rural farmers. The initiative demonstrates how traditional knowledge, combined with innovative approaches, can create sustainable solutions that are truly vocal for local. With continued support and expansion, this model has the potential to benefit countless other villages across the region, ensuring a brighter and more sustainable future for farming communities in Northeast India.