Sarcouncil Journal of Biomedical Sciences

Abstract: Drought is a complex, multidimensional stress or with significant biophysical and socio-economic impacts, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions where livelihoods depend on climate-sensitive resources. This study examines the implications of drought, grazing resource decline and adaptive livestock management strategies among pastoral and agro-pastoral communities, with a focus on small ruminant production systems. A mixed-methods approach integrating qualitative and quantitative techniques was employed, including Focus Group Discussions, key informant consultations and structured interviews supported by a pre-tested questionnaire administered through Google Forms. The sample size adhered to established methodological recommendations for field-based research.Results indicate that free grazing systems dominate, with 43.6% of respondents practicing non-migratory grazing, while 11.2% follow migratory systems. Sheep and goat rearing constitutes the primary livestock composition (39.4%). Feeding practices rely heavily on locally available fodder resources, crop residues and natural pastures. Access to grazing land is largely dependent on Common Property Resources (CPRs), rented land, or mixed arrangements, reflecting limited private land ownership. Seasonal migration, particularly from Satara district to neighboring regions, emerges as a key adaptive strategy to address fodder and water scarcity.Economic analysis reveals that the majority of respondents (65.3%) earn approximately ₹10,000 per sheep annually. However, increasing grazing pressure, land-use change and degradation of CPRs have reduced carrying capacity and forage availability, undermining system sustainability. The findings highlight that drought-induced resource constraints disproportionately affect resource-poor households, necessitating migration for livelihood security. Strengthening grazing land management, enhancing fodder availability and promoting equitable resource access are critical for sustaining small ruminant production and improving resilience in drought-prone agro-ecosystems.