A historical review of the livestock development activities inNepal for the past six decades have been carried out. The institutional development has undergone many changes within this periodand that major activity at the government level seems to have beenconcentrated on the establishment of infrastructure. The livestockdevelopment process in the earlier stages was very slow because ofshortage of trained manpower, poor organization, mal-distribution and low budgetary provision. The influence of foreign aid from thevery beginning in the development of livestock farms, animal healthservices and dairy development projects was more pronounced inmobilizing the existing resources with better management practicesand incentives to the technicians. Unfortunately, when the foreigninvestment was reduced to a minimum or completely removed thestandard of the livestock farms and the project management was greatly handicapped. The problem with the government operated farms and projects is in eligibility of disbursing the available funds by the concerned HMG authority an.d need for improved manage­ment.  The other cause of reduced quality of work was associated,in part by donors approaches. There appeared to be conceptual differenc-es between the donor perception of development and that of the recipients in shaping the programme. Currently, there arethree major institutions namely Department of Livestock Services(DLS), National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC) and Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science (IAAS) carrying out animalscience development and research activities within the country.Suggestion is being made that Department of Livestock Services,National Agricultural Research  Centre should  take into consideringin further planning stages, the following aspects such as: 1. Socio­economic study of sustainable programme, 2. Study of animalagriculture system, 3. Research and extension linkages, 4. Organizing animal breeding improvement and pasture development programme, 5. Organizing meetings and seminars,  6. Timely monitoring and evaluation of  the projects,  7.  Consideration  of  ethnicity and animal agriculture system, and 8. Study of the succession ofanimal demography along with the socio-economic  development  ofthe farmers. All of the above aspects are fully discussed in thepaper with specific recommendations.

 A historical review of the livestock development activities inNepal for the past six decades have been carried out. The institutional development has undergone many changes within this periodand that major activity at the government level seems to have beenconcentrated on the establishment of infrastructure. The livestockdevelopment process in the earlier stages was very slow because ofshortage of trained manpower, poor organization, mal-distribution and low budgetary provision. The influence of foreign aid from thevery beginning in the development of livestock farms, animal healthservices and dairy development projects was more pronounced inmobilizing the existing resources with better management practicesand incentives to the technicians. Unfortunately, when the foreigninvestment was reduced to a minimum or completely removed thestandard of the livestock farms and the project management was greatly handicapped. The problem with the government operated farms and projects is in eligibility of disbursing the available funds by the concerned HMG authority an.d need for improved manage­ment.  The other cause of reduced quality of work was associated,in part by donors approaches. There appeared to be conceptual differenc-es between the donor perception of development and that of the recipients in shaping the programme. Currently, there arethree major institutions namely Department of Livestock Services(DLS), National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC) and Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science (IAAS) carrying out animalscience development and research activities within the country.Suggestion is being made that Department of Livestock Services,National Agricultural Research  Centre should  take into consideringin further planning stages, the following aspects such as: 1. Socio­economic study of sustainable programme, 2. Study of animalagriculture system, 3. Research and extension linkages, 4. Organizing animal breeding improvement and pasture development programme, 5. Organizing meetings and seminars,  6. Timely monitoring and evaluation of  the projects,  7.  Consideration  of  ethnicity and animal agriculture system, and 8. Study of the succession ofanimal demography along with the socio-economic  development  ofthe farmers. All of the above aspects are fully discussed in thepaper with specific recommendations.

The role of livestock as a major source of cash generation for farm families has emerged after two dec­ades of persistent drive to promote livestock raising system in the country by the government and private agencies.The increased value of livestock based products e.g. carpet woolen goods, hides and skin up to Rs. 1812 million i.e 57.32% of the total overseas export trade in 1988/89, is a clear indication of its growing importance. However, livestock still hold a secondary role compared to the crop production ., in the overall fanning  system in Nepal and the livestock development sector has to face several constraints co realize its full values and potentials in the country. Some of the major constraints are: feed insufficiency, unexploited animals genetic resources, inadequate resource  management schemes, inadequate health and extension  services and restricted  marketing outlets.  The waysand means to find out the proper solutions in order to alleviate these constraints would be through systematic research in all the fields of animal production. However, such efforts in the research activities were not made for thepast 30 years, with some exceptions in the developmental activities such as cross-breeding program and introductionof the new germplasms. Limited numbers of research conducted by some of the organizations in cattle, buffaloes,sheep, goats and fodders were not sufficient to generate appropriate technologies to insure increased production.The development policy and program focus and its strategy adopted in the seventh plan and proposed development process are summarized. The major issues of production, extension and research in title livestock sector are discussed at length.

The role of livestock as a major source of cash generation for farm families has emerged after two dec­ades of persistent drive to promote livestock raising system in the country by the government and private agencies.The increased value of livestock based products e.g. carpet woolen goods, hides and skin up to Rs. 1812 million i.e 57.32% of the total overseas export trade in 1988/89, is a clear indication of its growing importance. However, livestock still hold a secondary role compared to the crop production ., in the overall fanning  system in Nepal and the livestock development sector has to face several constraints co realize its full values and potentials in the country. Some of the major constraints are: feed insufficiency, unexploited animals genetic resources, inadequate resource  management schemes, inadequate health and extension  services and restricted  marketing outlets.  The waysand means to find out the proper solutions in order to alleviate these constraints would be through systematic research in all the fields of animal production. However, such efforts in the research activities were not made for thepast 30 years, with some exceptions in the developmental activities such as cross-breeding program and introductionof the new germplasms. Limited numbers of research conducted by some of the organizations in cattle, buffaloes,sheep, goats and fodders were not sufficient to generate appropriate technologies to insure increased production.The development policy and program focus and its strategy adopted in the seventh plan and proposed development process are summarized. The major issues of production, extension and research in title livestock sector are discussed at length.

Browse   shrubs/trees   serve   as   a   supplementary   diet   as   well   as   sole   diet for ruminantespecially   in hill   areas of   Nepal.   Over 136 different   species   of   browse have   been   used   as asource of animal feed.   Most  of  the  leaves  of  browse  are  of  low palatability   and  low  digestibility.Many   contain   secondary   compounds.   Leguminous   species   are   relatively   high   in nutritive   valuecompared   to non-legumes.   Browse  provide   approximately   41%  of   the  total  DM   in  annual  feedsupply   and   12%  in  the  diet   of   dairy  stocks.   Use of fodder   in hilly areas   was estimated   655kg/caput   and  for   bedding  materials   459  kg/caput.   There is no attempt   to assess   animal prefer­ ence for   different   browse species.   Goats have been found    to prefer for   browse than cattle andsheep   whenever available.   Browse   species   may  not  be  an   efficient   diet  for   livestock,   but   as  asupplement   with  poor  quality  roughage   such   as  straw,   browse   can  serve   as   an   excellent  feedespecially,  in  dry  season   when  herbacious  species  fail   to  meet  the  optimum   level  of  production.More resean::h work is needed for the better use of browse.

Browse   shrubs/trees   serve   as   a   supplementary   diet   as   well   as   sole   diet for ruminantespecially   in hill   areas of   Nepal.   Over 136 different   species   of   browse have   been   used   as asource of animal feed.   Most  of  the  leaves  of  browse  are  of  low palatability   and  low  digestibility.Many   contain   secondary   compounds.   Leguminous   species   are   relatively   high   in nutritive   valuecompared   to non-legumes.   Browse  provide   approximately   41%  of   the  total  DM   in  annual  feedsupply   and   12%  in  the  diet   of   dairy  stocks.   Use of fodder   in hilly areas   was estimated   655kg/caput   and  for   bedding  materials   459  kg/caput.   There is no attempt   to assess   animal prefer­ ence for   different   browse species.   Goats have been found    to prefer for   browse than cattle andsheep   whenever available.   Browse   species   may  not  be  an   efficient   diet  for   livestock,   but   as  asupplement   with  poor  quality  roughage   such   as  straw,   browse   can  serve   as   an   excellent  feedespecially,  in  dry  season   when  herbacious  species  fail   to  meet  the  optimum   level  of  production.More resean::h work is needed for the better use of browse.

This experiment aimed to investigate the green  matter production  of  three  different  combinations  of  Oat and  legumes:  (a) oat (aveng sativa L) var.kent  + Common  vetch (vicia sativa),(b) Oat + Field pea (Pisum satiyum var. arvense and (c) Oat + Garden pea  (Pisum satiyum L) at four  levels of Nitrogen  (N0 N 40 N 70 and N100. One half of the N was applied as basal dose at the time of land preparation  and remaining one half  was top dressed after the first cut. Plants were harvested three times during February to April at approximately 35 days interval. The levels of nitrogen significantly influenced (P<O.OI) on the green matter production of all the combinations of oat and legumes.  However, the effects due to the inclusion of three different legumes and Nitrogen x Legumes interaction were not significant. The average GM yield at N 70 (70 kg. N ha-I) was 20.9 MT ha-I i.e. 34 percent higher compared to that of N 0 level (control). An additional amount of N above N70 level had no signifi­ cant effect on the GM production. Oat + c. vetch combination produced highest GM yield of 19.0 MT ha-1compared to that of other combinations, however, differences were not significant.

This experiment aimed to investigate the green  matter production  of  three  different  combinations  of  Oat and  legumes:  (a) oat (aveng sativa L) var.kent  + Common  vetch (vicia sativa),(b) Oat + Field pea (Pisum satiyum var. arvense and (c) Oat + Garden pea  (Pisum satiyum L) at four  levels of Nitrogen  (N0 N 40 N 70 and N100. One half of the N was applied as basal dose at the time of land preparation  and remaining one half  was top dressed after the first cut. Plants were harvested three times during February to April at approximately 35 days interval. The levels of nitrogen significantly influenced (P<O.OI) on the green matter production of all the combinations of oat and legumes.  However, the effects due to the inclusion of three different legumes and Nitrogen x Legumes interaction were not significant. The average GM yield at N 70 (70 kg. N ha-I) was 20.9 MT ha-I i.e. 34 percent higher compared to that of N 0 level (control). An additional amount of N above N70 level had no signifi­ cant effect on the GM production. Oat + c. vetch combination produced highest GM yield of 19.0 MT ha-1compared to that of other combinations, however, differences were not significant.

Maize (Zea mays) is title major cereal crop in Nepal. Inter-cropping of legume for forage with maize is not a common practice of the fanners.  Four types of legumes (i.e. Phaseolus  radialus,  Dolichus  biflorus. Phaseolus vulgaris and Glycine max) were inter-cropped with maize to asses the total bio-mass productivity. A basal dose of FYM-10 mt/ha., N-60, P20₅-40, and K20-40 kg,/ha. was applied at the time of sowing. The total biomass produc­tion was recorded highest in the combination of Zea mayswith Glycine  max(64.1 mt/ha.), where Zea mays in combination with Phqseolus radialus and Glycine max produced  more  qualitative feed  (21 mt/ha.) for  livestock. Maize residue edible to animals was obtained in more quantity (22.5 mt/ha.) from purely grown maize. Similarly, purely  grown maize was also the major source of fuel  (28.3 mt/ha). However, there was statistically significant differences among the treatments for  the grain as well as legume forage production.

Maize (Zea mays) is title major cereal crop in Nepal. Inter-cropping of legume for forage with maize is not a common practice of the fanners.  Four types of legumes (i.e. Phaseolus  radialus,  Dolichus  biflorus. Phaseolus vulgaris and Glycine max) were inter-cropped with maize to asses the total bio-mass productivity. A basal dose of FYM-10 mt/ha., N-60, P20₅-40, and K20-40 kg,/ha. was applied at the time of sowing. The total biomass produc­tion was recorded highest in the combination of Zea mayswith Glycine  max(64.1 mt/ha.), where Zea mays in combination with Phqseolus radialus and Glycine max produced  more  qualitative feed  (21 mt/ha.) for  livestock. Maize residue edible to animals was obtained in more quantity (22.5 mt/ha.) from purely grown maize. Similarly, purely  grown maize was also the major source of fuel  (28.3 mt/ha). However, there was statistically significant differences among the treatments for  the grain as well as legume forage production.

As a winter fodder, cultivation of Oat is becoming popular among doily fanners of Nepal. Growing nativelegumes with Oat is not a common practice of these fanners. Intercropping of legume with Oat does not only in­crease the qualitative forage production, but it also helps to improve the status of the soil. Four cultivators of native legume were intercropped  with four cultivars of Oat in order to asses the response of individual legume to the typesof Oat both under rainfed (Khumaltar) and irrigated condition (Tarahara). A basal doze of fertilizers (FYM@5M/jha.,N 30, P₂0₅ 30, and K₂0 50 kg/ha.) was applied. The response of individual native legume to the individual cultivar of oat was found to be different. Under rainfed condition, Pisum letbims with Kent (16 Mtjha.),Vicia. faba with Swan (18.7 Mt/ha.), Vicia  faba with Amuri (15.7 Mt/ha.) and Pisum lethirus with caravil/e (13.3Mt/ha.) produced relatively more forage. In the irrigated condition, Pisum lethims witlt Kent (36.4 Mt/ha.), andVicia sativa  with caraville (32.2 Mt/ha.) produced relatively more forage. However, differences between the treatments were not significant in both the environmental conditions.

As a winter fodder, cultivation of Oat is becoming popular among doily fanners of Nepal. Growing nativelegumes with Oat is not a common practice of these fanners. Intercropping of legume with Oat does not only in­crease the qualitative forage production, but it also helps to improve the status of the soil. Four cultivators of native legume were intercropped  with four cultivars of Oat in order to asses the response of individual legume to the typesof Oat both under rainfed (Khumaltar) and irrigated condition (Tarahara). A basal doze of fertilizers (FYM@5M/jha.,N 30, P₂0₅ 30, and K₂0 50 kg/ha.) was applied. The response of individual native legume to the individual cultivar of oat was found to be different. Under rainfed condition, Pisum letbims with Kent (16 Mtjha.),Vicia. faba with Swan (18.7 Mt/ha.), Vicia  faba with Amuri (15.7 Mt/ha.) and Pisum lethirus with caravil/e (13.3Mt/ha.) produced relatively more forage. In the irrigated condition, Pisum lethims witlt Kent (36.4 Mt/ha.), andVicia sativa  with caraville (32.2 Mt/ha.) produced relatively more forage. However, differences between the treatments were not significant in both the environmental conditions.

Scarcity of animal food, particularly green forage during the dry season is a serious problem for the farmers in the Eastern Hills of Nepal and it is one of the biggest constraints to the promotion of livestock development. Forage legumes, which remain green during the dry season, can play  an important role by providing  good quality fodder during this period .Thirty-two forage legume species were imported from Australia and sown at Pakhribas Agricultural Centre's south farm (1520 masl) in June 1987. The experiment was conducted under local farmer condition (No chemical fertilizers and irrigation were applied). Observations on germination, flowering, podding and seed yield were taken for one year followed by biomass production in the second year .The main objective was to find out if any of the forage species could remain green and produce green fodder during the dry season (November to May). Cassia rotundifolia cv. Wynn, Desmodium introtum cv. Green leaf,   Desmodium  uncinatum cv. Silverleaf, Neonotonia wightii cv.Clarence,  Stylosanthes  guianensis  cv." Graham and Vicia dasycarpa  cv. Nomoi  haveproved   to be the most promising  species. All the species are perennial   except Vicia dasycarpa. The highest green matter yield during dry season was obtained from Desmodium intortum (4.7 t/ha), followed by Vicia dasycarpa (4.5 t/ha), Desmodium uncinatum (3.4 t/ha), Stylosanthes guianensis (1.5 t/ha), Neonotonia wightii ( 1.1t/ha) and Cassia rotundifolia (0.4 t/ha). During this period four cuttings were taken from all the species except Vicia dasycarpa, from which only two cuttings could be taken. A total of eight cuttings were taken from all the species except Vicia dasycarpa, from which only two cut­tings were obtained. Total annual green matter yield  of  Desmodium  intortum, Stylosanthes quianensis, Desmodi­ um uncinatum, Neonotonia wightii,  Vicia  dasycarpa  and  Cassia rotundifolia  was 24.6t,  16.9t, 9.9t,  7.9, 4.5t and 3.8t per hectare respectively. The preliminary results of this study reveal that the above mentioned species can be a potential source of forage during the dry season in the Eastem Hills of Nepal.

Scarcity of animal food, particularly green forage during the dry season is a serious problem for the farmers in the Eastern Hills of Nepal and it is one of the biggest constraints to the promotion of livestock development. Forage legumes, which remain green during the dry season, can play  an important role by providing  good quality fodder during this period .Thirty-two forage legume species were imported from Australia and sown at Pakhribas Agricultural Centre's south farm (1520 masl) in June 1987. The experiment was conducted under local farmer condition (No chemical fertilizers and irrigation were applied). Observations on germination, flowering, podding and seed yield were taken for one year followed by biomass production in the second year .The main objective was to find out if any of the forage species could remain green and produce green fodder during the dry season (November to May). Cassia rotundifolia cv. Wynn, Desmodium introtum cv. Green leaf,   Desmodium  uncinatum cv. Silverleaf, Neonotonia wightii cv.Clarence,  Stylosanthes  guianensis  cv." Graham and Vicia dasycarpa  cv. Nomoi  haveproved   to be the most promising  species. All the species are perennial   except Vicia dasycarpa. The highest green matter yield during dry season was obtained from Desmodium intortum (4.7 t/ha), followed by Vicia dasycarpa (4.5 t/ha), Desmodium uncinatum (3.4 t/ha), Stylosanthes guianensis (1.5 t/ha), Neonotonia wightii ( 1.1t/ha) and Cassia rotundifolia (0.4 t/ha). During this period four cuttings were taken from all the species except Vicia dasycarpa, from which only two cuttings could be taken. A total of eight cuttings were taken from all the species except Vicia dasycarpa, from which only two cut­tings were obtained. Total annual green matter yield  of  Desmodium  intortum, Stylosanthes quianensis, Desmodi­ um uncinatum, Neonotonia wightii,  Vicia  dasycarpa  and  Cassia rotundifolia  was 24.6t,  16.9t, 9.9t,  7.9, 4.5t and 3.8t per hectare respectively. The preliminary results of this study reveal that the above mentioned species can be a potential source of forage during the dry season in the Eastem Hills of Nepal.

Natural grazing is a major source of forage for farmers in the mid and high hills. However, no systematicstudy on natural pasture has been carried out in Nepal. The information available so far is based on the assumption made by rule of thumb. A study was therefore undertaken near Gupha Pokhari and Khamlalung at altitudebetween 1500m and 2900m in the hills of eastern Nepal. The duration the herds spent on the pastures averaged 11.3 h/d in July and fell to 5.9 h/ d in November. However, actual time spent on grazing averaged 7 h/ d in June and fell to 4.6 h/d in March. The average bite rates of adult animals were 50/min for cattle and buffaloes, 48/ min for goats, 47/min for sheep and 52/min for Chauries. Adult cattle, buffaloes and Chauries have bite areas of 8-13 sq.cm. whereas sheep and goats have bite areas of 1.6 sq.cm. The quantity of herbage ingested has been estimated to be 1.2 g/bite for adult cattle and buffaloes. It is lower in the winter (0.9 g) than in the summer (1.9 g), but the dry matter content of the herbage is much higher inwinter (80%) than in the summer (25%). It is estimated that annual production of herbage is about 13000 kg/ha(fresh weight) or 3600 kg/ha drymatter. Herbage intake is about 22 kg/d for adult buffalo and cattle. Levels of crude protein indicate that the nutritive value of herbage is very high at the beginning of the monsoon but falls during the winter. The carrying capacity of the pasture is estimated to be 1.3 livestock unit (LSU) per hectare whereas, stocking area is 6.7 LSU/hac.

Natural grazing is a major source of forage for farmers in the mid and high hills. However, no systematicstudy on natural pasture has been carried out in Nepal. The information available so far is based on the assumption made by rule of thumb. A study was therefore undertaken near Gupha Pokhari and Khamlalung at altitudebetween 1500m and 2900m in the hills of eastern Nepal. The duration the herds spent on the pastures averaged 11.3 h/d in July and fell to 5.9 h/ d in November. However, actual time spent on grazing averaged 7 h/ d in June and fell to 4.6 h/d in March. The average bite rates of adult animals were 50/min for cattle and buffaloes, 48/ min for goats, 47/min for sheep and 52/min for Chauries. Adult cattle, buffaloes and Chauries have bite areas of 8-13 sq.cm. whereas sheep and goats have bite areas of 1.6 sq.cm. The quantity of herbage ingested has been estimated to be 1.2 g/bite for adult cattle and buffaloes. It is lower in the winter (0.9 g) than in the summer (1.9 g), but the dry matter content of the herbage is much higher inwinter (80%) than in the summer (25%). It is estimated that annual production of herbage is about 13000 kg/ha(fresh weight) or 3600 kg/ha drymatter. Herbage intake is about 22 kg/d for adult buffalo and cattle. Levels of crude protein indicate that the nutritive value of herbage is very high at the beginning of the monsoon but falls during the winter. The carrying capacity of the pasture is estimated to be 1.3 livestock unit (LSU) per hectare whereas, stocking area is 6.7 LSU/hac.

An experiment comprising four cutting heights 3, 5, 7 or 9 em of six cultivars (Kent, Swan, Amuri, Cara­ville, JH 810 and JH 822) of Oat with three replications was conducted at Khumaltar (NPFRP) in FY. 2046/47 under rainfed condition to asses forage production.  Three cuttings were taken 57, 45 or 37 days after sowing. FYM @ 5 t/ha. and urea @ 100 kg/ha. were applied as basal dose. The maximum production was harvested 39.0 t/ha.fresh weight from JH 810 when cut at 7 cm. above ground level followed  by Kent; 36.3 t. at 5 cm., JH 822; 33.8 y. at7 cm., Caraville; 33.3 t. at 9 cm., Swan; 32.9 t. at 5 cm. and Amuri; 33.2 t. at 9 cm/ha. There was no significanteffect of cutting heights on green matter production.

An experiment comprising four cutting heights 3, 5, 7 or 9 em of six cultivars (Kent, Swan, Amuri, Cara­ville, JH 810 and JH 822) of Oat with three replications was conducted at Khumaltar (NPFRP) in FY. 2046/47 under rainfed condition to asses forage production.  Three cuttings were taken 57, 45 or 37 days after sowing. FYM @ 5 t/ha. and urea @ 100 kg/ha. were applied as basal dose. The maximum production was harvested 39.0 t/ha.fresh weight from JH 810 when cut at 7 cm. above ground level followed  by Kent; 36.3 t. at 5 cm., JH 822; 33.8 y. at7 cm., Caraville; 33.3 t. at 9 cm., Swan; 32.9 t. at 5 cm. and Amuri; 33.2 t. at 9 cm/ha. There was no significanteffect of cutting heights on green matter production.

Eighteen Jersey and crossbred cattle heifers initially about 286 kg LW and 29 months of age were divided into three groups on the basis of age and live weights. Three experimental rations viz. 1. untreated rice straw ad libitum + 2 kg CM + Mineral lick (RS ), 2. Urea supplemented rice straw ad libitum + 2kg CM  + Mineral lick (USERS) were given at random to each group of animals. RS, USRS and UTRS had 9.7, 19.0 and 11.0 % crude protein contents. In takes of DM, OM, NDF, ADF. Cellulose, Hemicellulose, Lignin, CP, Mineral and Water, CP balance, LW again, and digestibility of DM, NDF, Cellulose, and Hemicelluloses were not found significantly different between R.s, USRS and UTRS. However, UTRS had significantly higher (P<0.05) OM and ADF digestibility than RS, and RS and USRS, respectively. Although the mean difference in the daily LW gain of the animals recieving RS , USRS and UTRS was not significant L W gain tended to be higher on the groups of animals receiving USRS and UTRS.

Eighteen Jersey and crossbred cattle heifers initially about 286 kg LW and 29 months of age were divided into three groups on the basis of age and live weights. Three experimental rations viz. 1. untreated rice straw ad libitum + 2 kg CM + Mineral lick (RS ), 2. Urea supplemented rice straw ad libitum + 2kg CM  + Mineral lick (USERS) were given at random to each group of animals. RS, USRS and UTRS had 9.7, 19.0 and 11.0 % crude protein contents. In takes of DM, OM, NDF, ADF. Cellulose, Hemicellulose, Lignin, CP, Mineral and Water, CP balance, LW again, and digestibility of DM, NDF, Cellulose, and Hemicelluloses were not found significantly different between R.s, USRS and UTRS. However, UTRS had significantly higher (P<0.05) OM and ADF digestibility than RS, and RS and USRS, respectively. Although the mean difference in the daily LW gain of the animals recieving RS , USRS and UTRS was not significant L W gain tended to be higher on the groups of animals receiving USRS and UTRS.

The effects of feeding different concentrate mixtures on VFI and daily LW gain of 8 cross-bred piglets (24M and 24F) which were about 8 weeks of age and 9 kg. LW were investigated in this experiment. Four replicatesof three pen groups of 4 piglets  (2M, 2F) were randomly allocated to the three dietary treatments. The experimental diets were given for  42 days. The experimental diets were: 1. Khumal (KF), 2. Ratna(RF), and 3. Hetauda (HF) feeds.   CP content of KF was slightly lower than the CP contents of RF and HF and some differences in the con­tents of the cell wall constituents were also found between the diets.   The groups of animals given KF had significantly (P<0.05) lower ADFI and ADLWG than the groups of animals given either RF or HF.  However, ADFI andADLWG between RF and HF were not found significantly different.   Feed conversion ratios and apparent digestibilities were not significantly different between the treatment groups.

The effects of feeding different concentrate mixtures on VFI and daily LW gain of 8 cross-bred piglets (24M and 24F) which were about 8 weeks of age and 9 kg. LW were investigated in this experiment. Four replicatesof three pen groups of 4 piglets  (2M, 2F) were randomly allocated to the three dietary treatments. The experimental diets were given for  42 days. The experimental diets were: 1. Khumal (KF), 2. Ratna(RF), and 3. Hetauda (HF) feeds.   CP content of KF was slightly lower than the CP contents of RF and HF and some differences in the con­tents of the cell wall constituents were also found between the diets.   The groups of animals given KF had significantly (P<0.05) lower ADFI and ADLWG than the groups of animals given either RF or HF.  However, ADFI andADLWG between RF and HF were not found significantly different.   Feed conversion ratios and apparent digestibilities were not significantly different between the treatment groups.

The effects of mineral supplementations on the fleece weights and live weight gains were studied on twenty eight Polwarth weaners (av. age  = 337.8 days). They were randomly divided into four groups and were assigned four different treatments such as Vetlick adlibitum, sodium chloride (Nacl) ad libitum, redlick ad libitum and Nacl at every fifteen days interval (control). They were grazed in the daytime for 8 to 9 hours and were housed separately.In addition, 200 grams of barley grain per head per day was fed to the groups. The experiment lasted for 165 days (5.5 months) excluding two weeks of adjustment period. Conventional one way analysis of variance (Snedecor andCochran, 1980) was used to compare the  fleece yields and live weight gains between treatments. The average greasyfleece weight was found to be highest for the redlick group (889 gm/head) followed by Vetlick (861 gm/head) andcongrol group (851 gm/head). The Nacl(ad lib) group had tile lowest fleece  weight  (776 gm/head). In terms ofdaily gain redlick group showed the hightest value (2.32 gm/greasy wool/day) followed by Vetlick (1.85 gm/dlly).Nacl (ad lib) and control groups had comparable values ( 1.53 vs. 1.47). However, both fleece weights and averagedaily gains were not significantly different between treatments. In terms of daily live weight gains, similar trend wasobserved  like the fleece   weights except Nacl  (ad libJ group.  Thegains  were again highest for  the redlick group (127.90 gm/day) and Vetlick groups (127.29 gm/day). Nacl (ad lib) and control groups had lower values (111.35 vs. 110.39). Since there were no significant differences between treatments among the parameters measured, feedingvetlick to sheep during summer (March to Sept.) may not be economically beneficial. It also cuts considerable doubt about the benefit of vetlick which is indescriminately distributed to farmers by the district livestock services. Instead, redlick could be a better proposition in this region for summer. Otherwise usual farmers' practice of offer­ ing Nacl to sheep every fortnight can be considered appropriate considering the cost and labour involved in other methods. However, this needs to be studied for winter (October to February)period.

The effects of mineral supplementations on the fleece weights and live weight gains were studied on twenty eight Polwarth weaners (av. age  = 337.8 days). They were randomly divided into four groups and were assigned four different treatments such as Vetlick adlibitum, sodium chloride (Nacl) ad libitum, redlick ad libitum and Nacl at every fifteen days interval (control). They were grazed in the daytime for 8 to 9 hours and were housed separately.In addition, 200 grams of barley grain per head per day was fed to the groups. The experiment lasted for 165 days (5.5 months) excluding two weeks of adjustment period. Conventional one way analysis of variance (Snedecor andCochran, 1980) was used to compare the  fleece yields and live weight gains between treatments. The average greasyfleece weight was found to be highest for the redlick group (889 gm/head) followed by Vetlick (861 gm/head) andcongrol group (851 gm/head). The Nacl(ad lib) group had tile lowest fleece  weight  (776 gm/head). In terms ofdaily gain redlick group showed the hightest value (2.32 gm/greasy wool/day) followed by Vetlick (1.85 gm/dlly).Nacl (ad lib) and control groups had comparable values ( 1.53 vs. 1.47). However, both fleece weights and averagedaily gains were not significantly different between treatments. In terms of daily live weight gains, similar trend wasobserved  like the fleece   weights except Nacl  (ad libJ group.  Thegains  were again highest for  the redlick group (127.90 gm/day) and Vetlick groups (127.29 gm/day). Nacl (ad lib) and control groups had lower values (111.35 vs. 110.39). Since there were no significant differences between treatments among the parameters measured, feedingvetlick to sheep during summer (March to Sept.) may not be economically beneficial. It also cuts considerable doubt about the benefit of vetlick which is indescriminately distributed to farmers by the district livestock services. Instead, redlick could be a better proposition in this region for summer. Otherwise usual farmers' practice of offer­ ing Nacl to sheep every fortnight can be considered appropriate considering the cost and labour involved in other methods. However, this needs to be studied for winter (October to February)period.

Twenty Jamunapari (50% cross) and 2 1ocal Khari male kids of 120 days old with an average live weightof 10.2 kg were selected for experiment. Twenty four kids were blocked in to two groups ( 12 kids per group) andwere allocated experimental diets at random in each group. 17ze experimental diet were: I. Stall Feeding: concen­trate mixture + green forage ad lib + vetlic, and II. Open Grazing: Concentrate Mixture + Grazing (7 to 8 houn perday) + green grass (as supplements) + Vetlic. Monthly live weight of the animals were measured and recorded.There was no significant differences in the daily live weight gain between the diets. However, the animals in the stall fed system had 17.2% higher daily live weight gain than of the animals kept in the open grazing system.

Twenty Jamunapari (50% cross) and 2 1ocal Khari male kids of 120 days old with an average live weightof 10.2 kg were selected for experiment. Twenty four kids were blocked in to two groups ( 12 kids per group) andwere allocated experimental diets at random in each group. 17ze experimental diet were: I. Stall Feeding: concen­trate mixture + green forage ad lib + vetlic, and II. Open Grazing: Concentrate Mixture + Grazing (7 to 8 houn perday) + green grass (as supplements) + Vetlic. Monthly live weight of the animals were measured and recorded.There was no significant differences in the daily live weight gain between the diets. However, the animals in the stall fed system had 17.2% higher daily live weight gain than of the animals kept in the open grazing system.

As livestock feeding system in Nepal are completely defendant of the local-ecosystem, studies and  researches hove to reveal and quantify the interactions existing among the various n.ual input and output. The modelisation exercise gives an appropriate tool to link by mathematical relations the various activities, but that approochrequires from various disciplines a strong collaboration. As the mathematical process is involved, accruacy andsound experimental protocol are unavoidable. In  return  the modelisation provide  a very powerful  mean to erplonthe relevance of various technical alternatives, it systematize the cycle  of observation, generalization, erperimentation, extension and again observation.

As livestock feeding system in Nepal are completely defendant of the local-ecosystem, studies and  researches hove to reveal and quantify the interactions existing among the various n.ual input and output. The modelisation exercise gives an appropriate tool to link by mathematical relations the various activities, but that approochrequires from various disciplines a strong collaboration. As the mathematical process is involved, accruacy andsound experimental protocol are unavoidable. In  return  the modelisation provide  a very powerful  mean to erplonthe relevance of various technical alternatives, it systematize the cycle  of observation, generalization, erperimentation, extension and again observation.

Forty local non-descript cows were allocated into four groups and artificially inseminated with the import­ ed frozen semen of four dairy cattle breeds viz. Jersy, Holstein  Friesien,  Brownswiss  and Ayreshire. Produced F1 crossbred females  were maintained in the same management. Their reproductive and productive performances along with reproductive disorders were monitored upto the 6th lactation of an individual animal. Nepali non-descript x Holstein Friesien Fl crossbred showed earlier calving at the age of 27 ± 3.5 months. Shortest calving inteival ( 13.8 ± 0.4 month) was found  in Nepali non-descript x Jersey. The highest 4% FCM of 1745 litres milk per lactation was found in Nepali non-descript x Holstein Friesien F1 crossbred. The highest number of Dystocia and retained placenta were shown by Nepali Non-descript x Holstein Friesien and Nepali Non-descript x Brownswiss  F1 crossbreds respectively.

Forty local non-descript cows were allocated into four groups and artificially inseminated with the import­ ed frozen semen of four dairy cattle breeds viz. Jersy, Holstein  Friesien,  Brownswiss  and Ayreshire. Produced F1 crossbred females  were maintained in the same management. Their reproductive and productive performances along with reproductive disorders were monitored upto the 6th lactation of an individual animal. Nepali non-descript x Holstein Friesien Fl crossbred showed earlier calving at the age of 27 ± 3.5 months. Shortest calving inteival ( 13.8 ± 0.4 month) was found  in Nepali non-descript x Jersey. The highest 4% FCM of 1745 litres milk per lactation was found in Nepali non-descript x Holstein Friesien F1 crossbred. The highest number of Dystocia and retained placenta were shown by Nepali Non-descript x Holstein Friesien and Nepali Non-descript x Brownswiss  F1 crossbreds respectively.

Study indicated that the 50% Crosses of Baruwal Sheep with both Polwarth and Merino performed betterin many traits compared to local Baruwal breed at this [ann and migratory flock. Crossbred grew faster (87 to 100g/d) than the pure exotic breed (80.7 to 94.35 g/d). Wool production from the Cross was more than one and halftime (1.54 kg) that of the native Baruwal breed (0.85 kg). Crossbred had longer staple length (12 and 11.4 cm of M .x Bw and P x Bw respectively) than pure exotic & native breed (7.8 to 9.9 cm) which has a significant effect on carpet making. Crossbred had better weaning ability (0.81 and 0.71 in M x Bw, and P x Bw respectively) than pure exotic and native breeds (0.6 to 0.7 lambs per ewe). Merino and their Crossbred had higher lambing percentages (95 & 93% respectively) compared to both Polwarth and their Cross and Baruwal (90, 84, and 83.5 respectively). Only Pure Merino & Baruwal showed twinning ability (5% and 2% respectively). Pure exotic breeds were early lambers (568 & 617 days for Polworth and Merino) than their crosses (701 to 770 days). General comparision between stationary and migratory flocks revealed that sheep kept in migratory flock per­ formed better especially in lambing percentage, lamb growth rate, survivality and birth weight.

Study indicated that the 50% Crosses of Baruwal Sheep with both Polwarth and Merino performed betterin many traits compared to local Baruwal breed at this [ann and migratory flock. Crossbred grew faster (87 to 100g/d) than the pure exotic breed (80.7 to 94.35 g/d). Wool production from the Cross was more than one and halftime (1.54 kg) that of the native Baruwal breed (0.85 kg). Crossbred had longer staple length (12 and 11.4 cm of M .x Bw and P x Bw respectively) than pure exotic & native breed (7.8 to 9.9 cm) which has a significant effect on carpet making. Crossbred had better weaning ability (0.81 and 0.71 in M x Bw, and P x Bw respectively) than pure exotic and native breeds (0.6 to 0.7 lambs per ewe). Merino and their Crossbred had higher lambing percentages (95 & 93% respectively) compared to both Polwarth and their Cross and Baruwal (90, 84, and 83.5 respectively). Only Pure Merino & Baruwal showed twinning ability (5% and 2% respectively). Pure exotic breeds were early lambers (568 & 617 days for Polworth and Merino) than their crosses (701 to 770 days). General comparision between stationary and migratory flocks revealed that sheep kept in migratory flock per­ formed better especially in lambing percentage, lamb growth rate, survivality and birth weight.

Twenty sheep wethers(ten Polwarth  cross and ten Baruwal) were used to study the load carrying ability ofcrossbred  and native sheep breed in Jumla, Nepal.   The average age of the Polwarth cross and Baruwal were 4122and 481.8 days  respectively. The average body weights were 28.59 kg. for Polwarth crosses and 23.0 kg. for Baruwal.Both  the breed of animal were divided  into two groups  containing 5 animals in each group assigning 15 and 20%load equivalent to their body weight.  Barley grain were filled in the harness and animal were drived pre-determineddistance of  13.6 Jan. daily from  6:00AM to 1:00 PM.  The rectal temperature and the respiration rate was measured and statistically analyzed to compare the stress caused by the load. The result indicated that out of the two physiological reaction measured, respiration rate was the mostsensitive to the load carried. Among the breed Polwarth cross had higher respiratory rate showing more stressed . The suit indicated that with the percent of load carried (i.e. 15% and 20%) the was no significantdifferent of the load carrying ability of both crosses and indigenous sheep breed.

Twenty sheep wethers(ten Polwarth  cross and ten Baruwal) were used to study the load carrying ability ofcrossbred  and native sheep breed in Jumla, Nepal.   The average age of the Polwarth cross and Baruwal were 4122and 481.8 days  respectively. The average body weights were 28.59 kg. for Polwarth crosses and 23.0 kg. for Baruwal.Both  the breed of animal were divided  into two groups  containing 5 animals in each group assigning 15 and 20%load equivalent to their body weight.  Barley grain were filled in the harness and animal were drived pre-determineddistance of  13.6 Jan. daily from  6:00AM to 1:00 PM.  The rectal temperature and the respiration rate was measured and statistically analyzed to compare the stress caused by the load. The result indicated that out of the two physiological reaction measured, respiration rate was the mostsensitive to the load carried. Among the breed Polwarth cross had higher respiratory rate showing more stressed . The suit indicated that with the percent of load carried (i.e. 15% and 20%) the was no significantdifferent of the load carrying ability of both crosses and indigenous sheep breed.

Thirty Murrah buffaloes calved within 4 months interval were divided into three groups.  Two groups hadsuckling calves for the period of 6 and 4 months, whereas in the third group, ten calves we weaned at birth and reared artificially.  The lactation yield of calf suckling group was found the same 3.43 kg/day over 342 days and 351 days of lactating length. The weaned group gave a lactation yield of 1854.6±714 kg over 295 ± 95.7 days of average lactation period.  The calves in three groups had a satisfactory growth rate and there was no mortality in the calves.Calves in early weaned group consumed 599 kg. of whole milk/head  including  18 kg. of colostrum.  The buffaloesin weaned group had to be offered an extra allowance of 1kg. feed daily to each buffalo cow for milk let down. Theweaning of buffalo calves at birth did not effect the milk yield. survival and growth rate of weaned calves upto 26weeks of age. A shorter postpartum oestrus in weaned group indicated a beneficial effect of weaning. 

Thirty Murrah buffaloes calved within 4 months interval were divided into three groups.  Two groups hadsuckling calves for the period of 6 and 4 months, whereas in the third group, ten calves we weaned at birth and reared artificially.  The lactation yield of calf suckling group was found the same 3.43 kg/day over 342 days and 351 days of lactating length. The weaned group gave a lactation yield of 1854.6±714 kg over 295 ± 95.7 days of average lactation period.  The calves in three groups had a satisfactory growth rate and there was no mortality in the calves.Calves in early weaned group consumed 599 kg. of whole milk/head  including  18 kg. of colostrum.  The buffaloesin weaned group had to be offered an extra allowance of 1kg. feed daily to each buffalo cow for milk let down. Theweaning of buffalo calves at birth did not effect the milk yield. survival and growth rate of weaned calves upto 26weeks of age. A shorter postpartum oestrus in weaned group indicated a beneficial effect of weaning. 

Lamb mortality is major constraint of sheep fanning in Nepal and causes economical losses to thesheep industry. This mortality is high in the migratory flocks and various factors are responsible. A lot of lambs are lost due to faulty management, go missing in the forest or are taken by predators. These losses are an added burden to the sheep farmer. A comparative study was made between Polworth Cross and Baruwal lambs in Ghundruk area,Kaski District. The result showed that 23.5% died, and 10.9% were lost from the cross breed population, while17.7% died due to various diseases, and 18.2% were lost in the Baruwal breed. Some reasons for these differencesare suggested and discussed.

Lamb mortality is major constraint of sheep fanning in Nepal and causes economical losses to thesheep industry. This mortality is high in the migratory flocks and various factors are responsible. A lot of lambs are lost due to faulty management, go missing in the forest or are taken by predators. These losses are an added burden to the sheep farmer. A comparative study was made between Polworth Cross and Baruwal lambs in Ghundruk area,Kaski District. The result showed that 23.5% died, and 10.9% were lost from the cross breed population, while17.7% died due to various diseases, and 18.2% were lost in the Baruwal breed. Some reasons for these differencesare suggested and discussed.

This study was conducted in Dhading District where Dhading Development Project is engaged in improving the living condition of a large section of the population and the ecological rehabilitation of Dhading district. In 1989, DDP/G1Z provided a sum of Rs. 60,000 to the District Livestock Office of Dhading to establish eight revolving fund distribution sites for the supply of veterinary drugs in the rural areas. These funds are being operated by a group of fanners.  The veterinary drugs are sold from these sites to the farmers of neighboring villages. Although the revolving fund scheme is still in its early stage of development, an attempt has been made to evaluate the impact of this program. Out of eight revolving fund established sites, only five were visited. Total 29 farmers from five sites, three livestock J.T.A's and sir village animal health workers (the fund operators) were interviewed. In this study, the reseacher has tried to identify the existing problems and possible solution for the successful operation of the revolving fund programme. The financial status of the funds and farmers' attitude towards this program is also analysed. Although a number of problems are encountered in the early stage of development of the scheme, there exists a wide scope for further expansion and development of the scheme. The revolving fund approach, by mobilizing the local resources, could be proven as an important system to provide adequate animal health services in the hill areas where transportation net work is very poor. At the same time this kind of approach  will support HMG Nepal to minimize the economic burden to the Government in the long run. This study was conducted in Dhading District where Dhading Development Project is engaged in improving the living condition of a large section of the population and the ecological rehabilitation of Dhading district. In 1989, DDP/G1Z provided a sum of Rs. 60,000 to the District Livestock Office of Dhading to establish eight revolving fund distribution sites for the supply of veterinary drugs in the rural areas. These funds are being operated by a group of fanners.  The veterinary drugs are sold from these sites to the farmers of neighboring villages. Although the revolving fund scheme is still in its early stage of development, an attempt has been made to evaluate the impact of this program. Out of eight revolving fund established sites, only five were visited. Total 29 farmers from five sites, three livestock J.T.A's and sir village animal health workers (the fund operators) were interviewed. In this study, the reseacher has tried to identify the existing problems and possible solution for the successful operation of the revolving fund programme. The financial status of the funds and farmers' attitude towards this program is also analysed. Although a number of problems are encountered in the early stage of development of the scheme, there exists a wide scope for further expansion and development of the scheme. The revolving fund approach, by mobilizing the local resources, could be proven as an important system to provide adequate animal health services in the hill areas where transportation net work is very poor. At the same time this kind of approach  will support HMG Nepal to minimize the economic burden to the Government in the long run.

This study was conducted in Dhading District where Dhading Development Project is engaged in improving the living condition of a large section of the population and the ecological rehabilitation of Dhading district. In 1989, DDP/G1Z provided a sum of Rs. 60,000 to the District Livestock Office of Dhading to establish eight revolving fund distribution sites for the supply of veterinary drugs in the rural areas. These funds are being operated by a group of fanners.  The veterinary drugs are sold from these sites to the farmers of neighboring villages. Although the revolving fund scheme is still in its early stage of development, an attempt has been made to evaluate the impact of this program. Out of eight revolving fund established sites, only five were visited. Total 29 farmers from five sites, three livestock J.T.A's and sir village animal health workers (the fund operators) were interviewed. In this study, the reseacher has tried to identify the existing problems and possible solution for the successful operation of the revolving fund programme. The financial status of the funds and farmers' attitude towards this program is also analysed. Although a number of problems are encountered in the early stage of development of the scheme, there exists a wide scope for further expansion and development of the scheme. The revolving fund approach, by mobilizing the local resources, could be proven as an important system to provide adequate animal health services in the hill areas where transportation net work is very poor. At the same time this kind of approach  will support HMG Nepal to minimize the economic burden to the Government in the long run. This study was conducted in Dhading District where Dhading Development Project is engaged in improving the living condition of a large section of the population and the ecological rehabilitation of Dhading district. In 1989, DDP/G1Z provided a sum of Rs. 60,000 to the District Livestock Office of Dhading to establish eight revolving fund distribution sites for the supply of veterinary drugs in the rural areas. These funds are being operated by a group of fanners.  The veterinary drugs are sold from these sites to the farmers of neighboring villages. Although the revolving fund scheme is still in its early stage of development, an attempt has been made to evaluate the impact of this program. Out of eight revolving fund established sites, only five were visited. Total 29 farmers from five sites, three livestock J.T.A's and sir village animal health workers (the fund operators) were interviewed. In this study, the reseacher has tried to identify the existing problems and possible solution for the successful operation of the revolving fund programme. The financial status of the funds and farmers' attitude towards this program is also analysed. Although a number of problems are encountered in the early stage of development of the scheme, there exists a wide scope for further expansion and development of the scheme. The revolving fund approach, by mobilizing the local resources, could be proven as an important system to provide adequate animal health services in the hill areas where transportation net work is very poor. At the same time this kind of approach  will support HMG Nepal to minimize the economic burden to the Government in the long run.

The use of local people as Animal Health Workers (AHW) was conceptualized by the Department of Livestock Services (DLS) a decade ago. The objective was to train local farmers in basic animal health care so as to extend animal health services to the villages. Until 1988/89, more than 550 AHWs were trained in the Rapti Zone alone. In 1989/90 more than 550 additional AHWs were trained. But due to lack of followup activities it was felt that the objective was not fully realized. DLSOs estimates indicated that only 19 percent of trained AHWS operational in 1988/89. In late 1989 and early 1990, a sample survey was under takenby the Rapti Development Project in the five districts of the Rapti Zone to identify the problems experienced by the AHWs.AHWs from 12 1ocalities where the RDP TA team  had planned  to assist  the  line  agencies  in strengtheningfarmer user group were selected for the study. However, to reach  the  reasonable  number  of  sample  size,  the neigh­boring and nearly villages (then called panchayats ) were  also  taken  as  the  study  area.  The  sample  included  19AHWs from Dang,  17 from  Pyuthan,  15 from  Rolpa,  18 from  Rukum  and  15 from  Salyan.  Thirtynine AHWs  in the sample were classified as active and 45 inactive. AHWs who were found to be providing health service  at the time of Survey were classified  as active. Simple pretested questionnaires were used to interview the AHWs. The main problems reported by AHWs were: ( i ) Poor access to veterinary medical supplv, (ii) Insufficient training, (iii) Lack of equipment and (iv) Lack of incentives.The inactive AHWs reported that the lack of medical supplies from DLSO, lack of incentives, family concerns and lack of recognition from the community were the main reasons for their inactiveness. The study suggested that the effectiveness of AHWs could be improved by providing an annual problem oriented refresher training and by developing a system through which AHWs would have access to medical supplies and equipment. Equally important would be to work out a system by which the AHWs could be paid for the services.

The use of local people as Animal Health Workers (AHW) was conceptualized by the Department of Livestock Services (DLS) a decade ago. The objective was to train local farmers in basic animal health care so as to extend animal health services to the villages. Until 1988/89, more than 550 AHWs were trained in the Rapti Zone alone. In 1989/90 more than 550 additional AHWs were trained. But due to lack of followup activities it was felt that the objective was not fully realized. DLSOs estimates indicated that only 19 percent of trained AHWS operational in 1988/89. In late 1989 and early 1990, a sample survey was under takenby the Rapti Development Project in the five districts of the Rapti Zone to identify the problems experienced by the AHWs.AHWs from 12 1ocalities where the RDP TA team  had planned  to assist  the  line  agencies  in strengtheningfarmer user group were selected for the study. However, to reach  the  reasonable  number  of  sample  size,  the neigh­boring and nearly villages (then called panchayats ) were  also  taken  as  the  study  area.  The  sample  included  19AHWs from Dang,  17 from  Pyuthan,  15 from  Rolpa,  18 from  Rukum  and  15 from  Salyan.  Thirtynine AHWs  in the sample were classified as active and 45 inactive. AHWs who were found to be providing health service  at the time of Survey were classified  as active. Simple pretested questionnaires were used to interview the AHWs. The main problems reported by AHWs were: ( i ) Poor access to veterinary medical supplv, (ii) Insufficient training, (iii) Lack of equipment and (iv) Lack of incentives.The inactive AHWs reported that the lack of medical supplies from DLSO, lack of incentives, family concerns and lack of recognition from the community were the main reasons for their inactiveness. The study suggested that the effectiveness of AHWs could be improved by providing an annual problem oriented refresher training and by developing a system through which AHWs would have access to medical supplies and equipment. Equally important would be to work out a system by which the AHWs could be paid for the services.

Livestock is an integral part of agriculture in Nepal . It has significant role in the Nepal's economy.  In 1984/85, it has contributed about 17% of the total gross domestic product (GDP) in the form of milk, meat, egg, ghee, woo hides and skin, and 28% in the total agricultural GDP. About 20% of the total cattle population  and 1% of the buffalo population are unproductive. Besides, the livestock consumes most of its energy in the search of food for maintenances than to production.   The improved methods of  livestock raising adopted  in Nepal  are, animal health, breeding, nutrition and management practices.

Livestock is an integral part of agriculture in Nepal . It has significant role in the Nepal's economy.  In 1984/85, it has contributed about 17% of the total gross domestic product (GDP) in the form of milk, meat, egg, ghee, woo hides and skin, and 28% in the total agricultural GDP. About 20% of the total cattle population  and 1% of the buffalo population are unproductive. Besides, the livestock consumes most of its energy in the search of food for maintenances than to production.   The improved methods of  livestock raising adopted  in Nepal  are, animal health, breeding, nutrition and management practices.

Livestock sector has come off age by shading its image as subsidiary to crop agriculture to become a keysource of foreign exchange earner for the country. Corporate and private sector has substantially changed thebackyard livestock and poultry keeping to a more lucrative economic activities in providing milk, meat, an eggs togrowing urban population. Support industries like feed manufacturing and processing industry like tanning industryand carcass utilization industries have come up to be the partners in livestock development.  Marketing channelsare getting more efficient in providing services to the producers and consumers. Business to provided inputs includ­ing medicines are thriving. HMG's will to help farmers all-over Nepal is indicated by the establishment of livestockservices centres.  All said and done, livestock sector still needs massive infusion of resources to give momentumto meet increasing demand for livestock and livestock products. Policies to give incentives for the farmers to better livestock management is needed urgently. This paper goes through qualitative analysis of livestock sector and iden­tifies key issues that need to be addressed. Statistical figures are avoided.

Livestock sector has come off age by shading its image as subsidiary to crop agriculture to become a keysource of foreign exchange earner for the country. Corporate and private sector has substantially changed thebackyard livestock and poultry keeping to a more lucrative economic activities in providing milk, meat, an eggs togrowing urban population. Support industries like feed manufacturing and processing industry like tanning industryand carcass utilization industries have come up to be the partners in livestock development.  Marketing channelsare getting more efficient in providing services to the producers and consumers. Business to provided inputs includ­ing medicines are thriving. HMG's will to help farmers all-over Nepal is indicated by the establishment of livestockservices centres.  All said and done, livestock sector still needs massive infusion of resources to give momentumto meet increasing demand for livestock and livestock products. Policies to give incentives for the farmers to better livestock management is needed urgently. This paper goes through qualitative analysis of livestock sector and iden­tifies key issues that need to be addressed. Statistical figures are avoided.