A New Dawn for Himachal’s Shepherds: Reviving Traditions, Securing Futures

For generations, shepherding has been the heartbeat of Himachal’s hill communities—families moving with their flocks across valleys and high-altitude pastures, weaving a livelihood from wool, milk, and meat. But in recent years, this way of life has been under threat. The state’s sheep and goat population has fallen by nearly 25%, leaving thousands of families worried about their future.

Now, hope has arrived. The Himachal Pradesh government has approved around ₹294.36-crore project to breathe new life into traditional pastoral livelihoods. With subsidies of up to 95% and insurance coverage worth ₹10 lakh, the initiative is expected to benefit nearly 40,000 families, especially nomadic and semi-nomadic shepherds.

“This is truly a New Year gift for our herders,” said Manoj Kumar Thakur, Chairman of the State Wool Federation, who has been championing the cause. “We want to ensure that every benefit reaches the right person, directly and transparently.” To make that happen, a digital database of shepherds will be created, ensuring timely delivery of support.

The project goes beyond financial aid. It promises better veterinary care, the introduction of high-quality breeds, and safety kits for shepherds who migrate to remote, high-altitude grazing grounds. It also encourages entrepreneurship, supporting start-ups in wool, milk, and meat production—a step toward turning traditional skills into modern opportunities.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu backed the proposal after hearing concerns about the sharp decline in livestock. The Cabinet’s approval marks a turning point, not just for animal husbandry but for the communities whose lives revolve around it.

Fair pricing is another cornerstone. By strengthening marketing and procurement systems, the government aims to ensure shepherds get the value they deserve for their products. Alongside this, breed improvement programmes and efforts to conserve grazing pastures will help secure the future of pastoralism in Himachal.

For the shepherds, this project is more than policy—it’s a lifeline. It promises dignity, security, and a chance to carry forward traditions that have defined the hills for centuries.