A REVIEW ON YAK FARMING PRATICES IN NEPAL

Yak farming in Nepal plays a significant role in agrobiodiversity conservation, cultural traditions, and socioeconomic development in high mountain regions. However, yak populations are facing challenges due to closed borders, grazing restrictions, and the abandonment of traditional farming practices. This paper examines the recent status of yak farming, including the decrease in population and herd sizes. It also explores housing and grazing practices, emphasizing the need for improved management and commercialization of yak farming. The study highlights the importance of yak breeds such as Chauri, their productivity, and their adaptation to lower altitudes. With limited research conducted on yaks in Nepal, this paper calls for the integration of scientific methods and indigenous knowledge to strengthen yak breeding and feeding practices. The study concludes with recommendations, including awareness programs, access to veterinary services, the establishment of milk chilling centers, genetic improvement, and the establishment of yak research centers, to support the development of yak farming in Nepal.