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The White Revolution and reordering of relations among the pastoralists of Gujarat: a case for pastoralist policies
01.02.2013
This paper introduces India's dairy policy before analysing some of the implications of this policy for the pastoralists of Gujarat State, illustrating the need for pastoralist-appropriate policies. The paper argues that on the basis of mounting ecological and economic data, dairy policy in India needs to consider pastoralist management systems and livelihoods and develop appropriate policies and programmes to support them. While the programmes have created important opportunities for increased earning potential for pastoralists, they have also led to negative consequences for food security, traditional livelihoods, and livestock diversity. A recognizable neo-liberal turn in Indian dairy policy will most likely amplify the negative impacts of the previous programme and potentially compromise existing best practices. The paper concludes with policy recommendations and a call to ground future policy processes with the normative and analytical right to adequate food framework.