Pakistan’s donkey population reached 5.9 million in fiscal year 2023-24, continuing its steady rise over recent years.
The Pakistan Economic Survey (PES) 2023-24, detailed this increase from 5.5 million in 2019-2020 to 5.8 million in 2022-23.
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb’s report also highlighted growth in other livestock populations, with cattle reaching 57.5 million and goats hitting 87 million.
Stable for five years, the populations of horses and mules remained at 0.4 million and 0.2 million, respectively. Camels, however, saw a slight increase from 1.1 to 1.2 million last year.
Animal husbandry is crucial for Pakistan’s rural economy, supporting over 8 million families.
Livestock contributes 60.84% to the agricultural sector and 14.63% to the GDP, growing 3.89% in 2023-24.
It forms the backbone of agricultural growth, contributing significantly to rural livelihoods and comprising 35% to 40% of rural family incomes.
The sector’s gross value addition rose to Rs 5,804 billion in 2023-24 from Rs 5,587 billion the previous year.
Livestock also plays a key role in Pakistan’s economy through net foreign exchange earnings, accounting for about 1.6% of total exports.
The government focuses on enhancing this sector for economic growth, food security, and poverty alleviation, promoting private sector development supported by public policy interventions.
Efforts include improving veterinary health, farming and breeding practices, and disease control to boost productivity.
