The Sirohi goat (Capra aegagrus hircus) is a medium to large breed that lives in dry and semi-arid areas of India. For good growth and milk production these goats need a mix of green fodder, dry roughage, and natural grazing plants.
Some green fodder that can be cultivated for feeding –
Common Dry Feed options –
Bajra Karbi (Pearl Millet Stalks)- It is filling and provides good energy.
Chana Bhusa (Gram/Chickpea Straw)- This is like a “superfood” for goats. It is very high in protein compared to other straws. Chana Bhusa helps them put on weight quickly.
Guar Phalgati (Guar Bean Straw)- The leftover straw (Phalgati) is very nutritious and goats enjoy the taste.
Moong Bhusa– They are easy for the goat to digest and very healthy.
Natural Grazing can also be opted additionally if green pastures are available
Sirohi goats like to browse (eat leaves and shrubs) more than graze only on grass. They happily eat legume plants like Subabul (Leucaena leucocephala), Sesbania, and Acacia leaves which give them good protein. Common grasses such as Cenchrus (dhaman), Dichanthium, and Panicum grow well in Rajasthan and Gujarat and provide fiber for healthy digestion. They also enjoy the pods of Prosopis juliflora (vilayati babool) and tender neem leaves when available.
These nutritional needs should be fulfilled for good health and milk –
A balanced diet with 12–18% protein, good energy source (carbohydrates) and enough calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and milk.
Clean drinking water and salt licks (mineral blocks) to maintain good digestion and overall health.
Farm Tips
- Practice rotational grazing so pastures can recover.
- Give a mix of green fodder, dry fodder (like wheat straw), and natural browse for best results.
The Sirohi goat’s ability to eat many types of plants makes it ideal for raising in dry regions. However, people from other states can also raise these goats too as they are very resilient. With the right conditions and feed these goats grow fast and give good milk and meat.
