Animal husbandry is a traditional occupation and the backbone of the communities in ruralscape. In the Thar desert it is more pertinent as a scope and means of livelihoods, given the high variability and unpredictability of rains. Cow, goat and sheep are reared in abundance and provide for milk and wool. Camels are a unique feature of the Thar desert. It’s interdependence with community and living has meant a special care and utility for the animal. It has enjoyed a high popularity and demand amongst the herding communities of Rajasthan for its resilience to the climate of the region and the functions it has played. Over the years, however, there has been a significant decline in the population of this animal – camels are a crucial component of desert living and the overall ecology of the region.

Historically, camel has been used for transportation and heavy work – water lifting from well, seed sowing, mill grinding etc. All these applications have faded away in the recent years. There is a great survival challenge, the camel is facing in the absence of alternative functions that a camel could play in the living of the desert.

The relationship of this animal has changed from coexistence to liability amongst the herding community. Today a household cannot survive and sustain itself only by rearing camels. Additionally, the trade ban on camels, since they have been declared the state animal has further added to the herder’s plight. Traditional camel products like camel milk, camel leather and products made out of camel hair no longer have a local market or demand in the community thanks to globalization then availability of cheaper alternatives, fast fashion and no lack of value chains. The higher feed and health costs are due to shrinkage of CPRs, loss of traditional revenue stream, and poor reach of existing support services.