New Delhi, April 28 -- The Nuapada district of western Odisha is home to many indigenous livestock breeds, and among its lesser-known treasures is the Maraguda goat. "Our Maraguda goats are strong. They don't fall sick easily. We sell them during festivals at the local market and earn good money. We also sell them in an emergency. They are like our ATM card,'' said Hiran Bemal, a small-scale farmer from Nuagaon village in Komna block.

Another farmer, Hiramohan Sabar from Malpada village, is very happy to share his experience of rearing this goat breed. "I started with four goats three years ago. Today, I have a flock of eight goats. Last year, I sold five adult males and earned Rs 32,000. They are easy to rear and require less attention ...