Sheep Farming Guide - UPSC Key Points & 15 Top MCQs

Sheep farming supports rural livelihoods by providing meat, wool, and milk while enhancing income stability for farmers. Understanding breeds, disease management, and economic factors helps build efficient production systems that benefit smallholders in varied climatic regions across India and support sustainable livestock development.

Knowledge of sheep breeds, disease prevention, and market dynamics ensures efficient farm planning. It helps farmers improve productivity, reduce losses, and increase profit margins. These insights support government schemes, strengthen rural employment, and promote better resource utilization in livestock-based agricultural systems.

Why the Topic Sheep Farming Matters in UPSC Exams

Understanding sheep farming, breed characteristics, disease control, and economic importance aids UPSC and other exam aspirants by improving conceptual clarity. It strengthens the agricultural, economic, and rural development sections, providing factual insights crucial for objective, analytical, and descriptive examination questions.

Quick Revision Notes - Sheep Farming

Keyword Definitions (UPSC / SSC / RRB / SEBI / IBPS / NDA Exams)

• Sheep Farming: Sheep farming involves rearing sheep for wool, meat, and milk. It supports rural livelihoods by generating continuous income and requires effective breed selection, disease management, and market understanding to ensure sustainable production and profitability for farmers.

• Breed: A breed refers to a specific group of sheep sharing common physical traits, productivity characteristics, and adaptability. Understanding breeds helps farmers choose suitable animals for wool, meat, or mixed purposes across varied agro-climatic conditions.

• Wool Yield: Wool yield measures the total wool obtained from a sheep during shearing. It depends on breed, nutrition, climate, and health. Higher wool yield increases market value and strengthens farm income.

• Lambing Rate: The lambing rate indicates the percentage of lambs produced per ewe each season. Higher rates improve flock expansion, profitability, and productivity. Efficient feeding, disease control, and breeding management significantly enhance lambing performance.

• Sheep Pox: Sheep pox is a contagious viral disease causing skin lesions, fever, and reduced wool quality. Effective vaccination and biosecurity practices help control outbreaks and minimize economic losses in sheep farms.

• Foot Rot: Foot rot is a bacterial infection affecting sheep hooves, leading to lameness, weight loss, and reduced grazing ability. Proper hygiene, foot dipping, and timely treatment prevent severe flock-level impacts.

• Gastrointestinal Parasites: Internal parasites reduce sheep growth, wool quality, and immunity. Regular deworming, pasture rotation, and improved nutrition form essential strategies to manage parasite loads and sustain productivity.

• Shearing: Shearing is the process of removing wool from sheep. It requires skilled handling to avoid injury and ensures improved comfort, hygiene, and healthy wool production cycles across the year.

• Market Price Fluctuation: Market price fluctuation refers to changing wool or meat prices due to demand, season, and global trends. Farmers must understand such dynamics to maximize profit and plan production cycles.

• Value Addition: Value addition converts raw wool or meat into processed products. It increases market value, generates employment, and supports rural industries through improved processing, branding, and marketing strategies.

• Flock Management: Flock management includes feeding, breeding, disease control, and housing practices that maintain healthy, productive sheep populations. Proper management enhances output and reduces mortality-related losses.

Message to Students: Stay consistent and focused—concept clarity in agriculture topics strengthens both objective and descriptive exam performance. Keep revising!

Multiple Choice Questions - Sheep Farming

🌿 STRAIGHT MCQs

1. Which Indian sheep breed is famous for high-quality carpet wool?
a) Nellore
b) Chokla
c) Madgyal
d) Bellary

Press Here for Answer & Explanation

Answer: b) Chokla
Chokla sheep produce superior carpet wool with good fiber length and durability. Their adaptability, high wool yield, and strong physical traits make them important contributors to India's wool industry and rural livelihoods.

2. The primary purpose of rearing Nellore sheep is:
a) Wool
b) Meat
c) Milk
d) Dual purpose

Press Here for Answer & Explanation

Answer: b) Meat
Nellore sheep are primarily meat-type animals with fast growth, good carcass quality, and strong adaptability. Their characteristics support profitable meat production, benefiting farmers in southern Indian states significantly.

3. Which disease in sheep is caused by a poxvirus?
a) Foot rot
b) Sheep pox
c) Enterotoxemia
d) Brucellosis

Press Here for Answer & Explanation

Answer: b) Sheep pox
Sheep pox is a viral disease causing skin nodules, fever, and production losses. Effective vaccination and strict hygiene measures are essential for preventing outbreaks and reducing economic impacts on flocks.

4. Shearing of sheep is generally performed:
a) During winter
b) During monsoon
c) Before summer
d) After lambing

Press Here for Answer & Explanation

Answer: c) Before summer
Shearing before summer reduces heat stress, improves comfort, and prevents disease complications. It also ensures cleaner wool and supports better flock health and productivity during warm seasons.

5. Average gestation period of sheep is:
a) 100 days
b) 120 days
c) 150 days
d) 180 days

Press Here for Answer & Explanation

Answer: c) 150 days
The gestation period of sheep is around 150 days. Knowing this helps farmers plan breeding cycles, lambing intervals, and feed schedules effectively for optimum flock management and productivity.

🌿 FILL IN THE BLANKS

1. __________ is the process of removing wool from sheep.
a) Feeding
b) Shearing
c) Dipping
d) Branding

Press Here for Answer & Explanation

Answer: b) Shearing
Shearing removes wool and supports hygiene, comfort, and higher productivity. It must be performed carefully to avoid injuries and maintain quality wool output during seasonal management practices.

2. Foot rot mainly affects the __________ of sheep.
a) Skin
b) Hooves
c) Eyes
d) Tail

Press Here for Answer & Explanation

Answer: b) Hooves
Foot rot damages hooves, causing pain, lameness, and reduced grazing. Effective sanitation, foot baths, and timely treatment prevent disease spread and protect flock mobility and health.

3. __________ sheep are known for high meat production in India.
a) Chokla
b) Malpura
c) Corriedale
d) Rambouillet

Press Here for Answer & Explanation

Answer: b) Malpura
Malpura sheep provide high-quality meat and adapt well to arid regions. Their resilience, growth rate, and moderate management needs make them valuable to Indian smallholder livestock farmers.

4. The economic value of sheep farming increases through __________ of wool and meat.
a) Wastage
b) Ignoring
c) Value addition
d) Isolation

Press Here for Answer & Explanation

Answer: c) Value addition
Value addition boosts income by converting raw products into processed items. It expands market opportunities, increases shelf value, and supports rural entrepreneurship and livelihood strengthening.

🌿 STATEMENT-BASED MCQs

1. Statements:
1. Chokla sheep are known for carpet wool.
2. Bellary sheep are mainly dairy animals.
a) Only 1 correct
b) Only 2 correct
c) Both correct
d) Both incorrect

Press Here for Answer & Explanation

Answer: a) Only 1 correct
Chokla produce high-quality carpet wool. Bellary are not dairy animals but mainly meat breeds. Understanding breed traits helps in effective livestock planning and productivity enhancement.

2. Statements:
1. Sheep pox vaccination is essential for flock health.
2. Sheep pox is caused by bacteria.
a) Only 1 correct
b) Only 2 correct
c) Both correct
d) Both incorrect

Press Here for Answer & Explanation

Answer: a) Only 1 correct
Vaccination prevents sheep pox outbreaks. The disease is viral, not bacterial. Understanding pathology supports timely diagnosis and better disease control strategies for farmers.

🌿 ASSERTION–REASON MCQs

1. Assertion (A): Wool yield is higher in well-fed sheep.
Reason (R): Nutrition directly influences wool fiber growth.
a) A and R true, R correct explanation
b) A and R true, R not explanation
c) A true, R false
d) A false, R true

Press Here for Answer & Explanation

Answer: a) A and R true, R correct explanation
Better nutrition promotes healthy wool growth and improves quality. Adequate proteins, minerals, and energy intake support fiber development, making nutrition a key wool production factor.

2. Assertion (A): Foot rot reduces grazing ability.
Reason (R): The disease causes severe hoof pain.
a) A and R true, R correct explanation
b) A and R true, R not explanation
c) A true, R false
d) A false, R true

Press Here for Answer & Explanation

Answer: a) A and R true, R correct explanation
Foot rot-induced pain limits movement, reducing grazing activity and weight gain. Proper hoof care and early treatment prevent losses and protect flock productivity.

🌿 MATCHING MODEL MCQs

List I	List II
A. Chokla	(i) Carpet wool
B. Nellore	(ii) Meat
C. Rambouillet	(iii) Medium wool
D. Bellary	(iv) Fine wool
Options: a) A-i, B-ii, C-iv, D-iii b) A-ii, B-iii, C-i, D-iv c) A-i, B-iv, C-ii, D-iii d) A-iii, B-iv, C-i, D-ii

Press Here for Answer & Explanation

Answer: a) A-i, B-ii, C-iv, D-iii
Each breed aligns with its known wool or meat characteristics. Understanding breed traits helps farmers choose appropriate animals for specific purposes, improving livestock efficiency and income.

List I	List II
A. Sheep pox	(i) Viral disease
B. Foot rot	(ii) Parasite control
C. Deworming	(iii) Hoof infection
D. Shearing	(iv) Wool removal
Options: a) A-i, B-ii, C-iii, D-iv b) A-ii, B-i, C-iv, D-iii c) A-i, B-iii, C-ii, D-iv d) A-iii, B-iv, C-ii, D-i

Press Here for Answer & Explanation

Answer: a) A-i, B-ii, C-iii, D-iv
Each term connects to essential livestock health and management concepts. Recognizing correct associations enables better disease prevention, handling practices, and productivity improvements in sheep farming systems.

Final Message for Aspirants: Keep practicing consistently. Agriculture topics reward conceptual clarity and real-world understanding. Stay confident and dedicated!

A tender moment between a sheep and her lamb, captured in the calm beauty of a countryside pastur

Top 10 Short Questions & Answers —Shep Farming

1. Explain the economic significance of sheep farming in India.

Sheep farming provides a steady income through wool, meat, and manure, requires low investment, supports landless families, thrives in dry areas, and strengthens rural livelihoods and small industries.

2. Discuss major Indian sheep breeds and their traits.

Important breeds include Gaddi, Chokla, Nellore, Deccani, and Marwari. They differ in wool quality, body size, adaptability, disease resistance, and suitability for meat or wool production.

3. Describe common sheep diseases and control measures.

Diseases include foot rot, PPR, enterotoxaemia, sheep pox, and parasitism. Control needs vaccination, hygiene, quarantine, deworming, clean housing, proper nutrition, and timely veterinary intervention.

4. Explain the role of the sheep wool industry in the rural economy.

The wool industry supports rural employment in shearing, spinning, weaving, and carpet making, strengthens cottage industries, improves income, and contributes significantly to regional economic development.

5. Discuss the importance of shearing and its timing.

Shearing prevents heat stress, skin infections, and parasites, improves wool quality, and enhances comfort. It is best done before summer and winter for maximum economic benefit.

6. Explain the impact of foot rot on flock productivity.

Foot rot causes lameness, reduced grazing, poor weight gain, lower wool yield, and rapid spread in wet conditions, leading to significant productivity losses and increased treatment costs.

7. Discuss the role of value addition in sheep products.

Value addition increases income by converting wool, skins, manure, and meat into carpets, shawls, leather goods, organic manure, and processed meat, generating rural employment and profitability.

8. Explain the lambing cycle and reproductive management.

The lambing cycle includes estrus, mating, gestation, and lambing. Good management requires nutrition, hygiene, disease prevention, heat detection, colostrum feeding, and proper care for newborns.

9. Discuss challenges in sheep marketing in India.

Challenges include middlemen dependence, poor price realization, inadequate transport, weak cooperatives, limited processing facilities, unorganized markets, and lack of grading, reducing farmers’ bargaining power.

10. Explain government schemes supporting sheep farmers.

Schemes include National Livestock Mission, NABARD support, RKVY, and state subsidies for breed improvement, healthcare, insurance, training, and infrastructure to enhance productivity and income.

Conclusion 

Sheep farming contributes significantly to rural livelihoods through wool, meat, and employment generation. Understanding breeds, diseases, and economic practices strengthens farming efficiency and examination preparedness, helping aspirants develop comprehensive perspectives on agriculture, rural development, and livestock-based economic systems.

Advanced Studies - Sheep Farming Guide

Sheep Farming—Summary Table

www.gkview.com

Section	Highlights
Why Sheep Farming?	Low investment, high profits, rural-friendly, suitable for small farmers and youth
Climate & Location	Moderate weather, grasslands, water sources, open roaming space, and bush shelter
Food & Nutrition	Grass, pulses, clean water, protein-rich diet, special care for pregnant sheep
Sheep Breeds	Black-headed, Bakarawal, Deccan, Bihar breeds, Desi sheep for beginners
Health Care	Vaccination, hygiene, foot care, regular observation, and clean shelters
Marketing & Profits	Local markets, online sales, contracts, festive demand, and business expansion

Why should you start sheep farming?

There are many opportunities to earn a steady income through sheep farming. It is one of the agricultural sectors that can be highly profitable with low investment.

• Sheep meat and milk are in significant demand in the market, so marketing is not difficult.

• This business is naturally sustainable in rural areas, so it does not require much infrastructure.

• Sheep are creatures that can be raised without much effort, and their health care can be managed to some extent.

• Even though the land is small, sheep farming is suitable, so it becomes a good opportunity for small farmers.

• Even in cities, sheep farming can be started and expanded on a small scale, which can be a good start for the youth.

What are the suitable conditions for sheep farming?

To start sheep farming, climatic conditions and location are very important.

• Exposure to the wind and moderate temperatures is good for the health of sheep, which reduces the chances of diseases.

• Having enough space to roam freely helps the sheep to stay healthy by providing them with physical exercise.

• Grasslands and areas with abundant water sources are best for sheep farming, which solves the food problem.

• Dust-free, dry, and moist soils are suitable for sheep, and chronic spot diseases are less common during the rainy season.

• Even if there are no special shelters, places like bushes that can be easily covered can provide temporary shelter, which is useful in the initial stages.

Sheep farming thrives in natural environments where animals graze freely, promoting both livelihood and land health

What is the balanced nutrition for sheep?

For sheep to grow healthily, it is essential to provide them with the right food and nutrients.

• It is best to feed mainly grass, fodder mixtures, and pulses, which are essential for energy and protein.

• Fresh water should be provided at least twice a day, which keeps the sheep hydrated.

• Providing additional nutrients to pregnant sheep ensures that future lambs are born healthy, which ensures the success of the breeding.

• Adult sheep require at least 2 kg of food per day, which maintains their weight and health.

• Sheep in the growth phase need to be fed a diet rich in protein so that they grow strong and fast.

How to select sheep breeds?

Choosing the right breed of sheep is essential for the success of your business.

• Black-headed sheep are very suitable for meat production, which are widely available in India.

• The Bakarawal breed of sheep has a high milk yield, which is more suitable for animal husbandry.

• The Deccan breed of sheep can survive even in low temperatures, which is suitable for mountainous areas.

• The breeds of the Bihar region are characterized by fast growth, which makes them the best choice for commercial purposes.

• Desi sheep, which are commonly found in villages, are also breeds that can be raised with low investment, which are a good choice in the initial stage.

Table: Sheep Breed, Purpose, & Special Features

Sheep Breed	Purpose	Special Features
Black-headed Sheep	Meat Production	Widely available in India, high adaptability
Bakarawal Breed	Milk Production	High milk yield, suitable for animal husbandry
Deccan Breed	Meat and Survival	Survives in low temperatures, ideal for hills
Bihar Breeds	Commercial Farming	Fast-growing, suitable for high turnover farming
Desi Sheep	Beginner Farming	Low investment, ideal for rural and initial setups

How to keep sheep healthy?

It is important to be vigilant about the health of sheep and take precautions against diseases.

• Vaccination once every six months can prevent diseases, which partially reduces the incidence of diseases.

• Keeping the feet of the sheep clean can prevent problems like foot rot, which does not cause difficulty in walking.

• If fever or urinary tract infections occur, veterinary advice should be sought immediately; delay is dangerous.

• Continuous observation can detect hormonal or genetic diseases early so that treatment can be done quickly.

• Ensuring that the diet and the animal's habitat are clean will reduce health problems, which helps in organized breeding.

How to market sheep profitably?

Selling sheep in the market requires planning, and with the right strategy, more profits can be made.

• Regional cattle markets and meat markets are the main centers for selling sheep, which sell quickly due to local demand.

• Signing agreements with large meat processing companies can provide a steady income, which provides financial security.

• Selling directly to consumers through online marketing provides a new business avenue, which increases brand value.

• Starting a small business and achieving profits, increasing the livestock count helps in business development, which is useful for capital reuse.

• For local meat traders, it is profitable to sell at a higher price during festivals when there is high demand, which gives seasonal profits.

An informative visual highlighting the journey from sheep farming to mutton production and its role in agriculture

Conclusion

Sheep farming is not just a business; it has the potential to bring about a significant change in rural lifestyle. It not only provides employment to the youth but also provides a steady income to poor families. With the right strategy, training, and perseverance, you too can achieve financial self-reliance through sheep farming. So start now and create a steady income stream for your future.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the minimum investment required for sheep farming?
You need at least Rs. 50,000 to begin sheep farming, which will be used for purchasing animals, feeding, and housing.

2. What is the annual profit of a sheep?
A sheep can often earn between Rs. 3,000 and Rs. 5,000 annually, which varies depending on the market price, health, and meat demand.

3. What are the common diseases of sheep?
The main diseases of sheep include foot rot, fever, and digestive problems. These can be prevented through vaccination and hygiene.

4. How is sheep farming useful for rural youth?
Rural youth can start sheep farming with little investment and become self-reliant. This creates employment opportunities and becomes a source of income.

5. Is training required to manage sheep farming meaningfully?
Yes, with training, you can effectively learn about breeds, nutrition, disease control, and marketing.

Online Courses, Reference Books, & Websites

Category	Resources
Online Courses	Coursera – Introduction to Animal Husbandry FutureLearn – Livestock Production and Management Udemy – Sheep Farming: Beginner to Pro eSkillIndia – Sheep Rearing (NSDC Certified)
Reference Books	Sheep Farming in India by Dr. N.S.R. Sastry Modern Sheep Farming by A. G. McDonald Practical Sheep Keeping by Paul R. Thomas The Sheep Book by Ron Parker
Websites	Sheep101.info FAO – Sheep and Goat Production American Sheep Industry Association ICAR – Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute