Enhancing tribal youth's knowledge and empowerment in goat farming: A quasi-experimental study of training impact on production and marketing

Enhancing tribal youth's knowledge and empowerment in goat farming

Abstract

This study assesses the impact of goat farming training on the knowledge levels of tribal youth of Banswara district in Rajasthan state across nine critical production and marketing. Data was collected from 73 youth participants both before and after their training during the 2019-20 period, utilizing a quasi-experimental "difference-in-differences" approach for comparison. Study findings highlight substantial knowledge enhancement, with production knowledge increasing by an impressive 78.86% and marketing expertise improving by 29.67%, and these changes are statistically significant. Identified knowledge gaps emphasize the need for targeted follow-up support to further enrich their expertise and enable practical application in agriculture. Tribal youth can significantly benefit from comprehensive support systems, leveraging state and central government initiatives, such as those offered by krishi vigyan kendras, state agricultural departments, and non-governmental organizations. Additionally, investing in the expansion of programs like the ARYA scheme across various districts represents a direct and impactful means of promoting self-employment, stimulating rural economic development, and curbing youth migration.