Members of the World Alliance of Mobile and Indigenous Peoples (WAMIP) have expressed deep concern over the rapid decline of India’s camel industry, particularly in the state of Rajasthan. Once a thriving sector, the industry is now on the verge of extinction, jeopardizing centuries-old traditions and cultural heritage.
The decline can be attributed to both modernisation, which has reduced the demand for camels, and economic hardships faced by the impoverished state. Paradoxically, a law introduced in 2015 to protect camels has further contributed to their dwindling numbers.
In a recent rescue operation, a group of 150 malnourished camels, destined for slaughter, were intercepted and guided back to Rajasthan over a grueling 750-kilometer journey. However, the arduous road has taken its toll, with many camels unable to continue due to exhaustion and starvation.
To mitigate this crisis and secure the future of Rajasthan’s camels, the Mahaveer Camel Sanctuary in Sirohi has been designated as their new home. However, there are still five challenging days of travel remaining for the caravan.
Hanwant Singh, WAMIP member and founder of Lokhit Pashu-Palak Sansthan, a prominent camel conservationist group, emphasizes the urgent need to save these magnificent creatures. Singh’s organization aims to leverage the demand for camel milk and wool across India to provide herders with alternative, sustainable livelihoods.
“There is an urgent need to uplift the ban on camel transportation”. Ilse Köhler-Rollefson, veterinary surgeon
Sadly, the decline of Rajasthan’s camels has been inadvertently hastened by the very law implemented to protect them. The Camel Act, enacted in 2015, aimed to prevent mass slaughter but has instead led to a sharp decline in camel breeding, sales, and ownership. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the situation by devastating the tourism sector, which herders relied upon.
Raika herders, whose livelihoods are intrinsically linked to camel rearing, have been hit the hardest. The ban on camel transportation has shattered their once-thriving trade, causing their camels’ value to plummet. In a matter of years, the camel population in Rajasthan is predicted to become minuscule, threatening the unique bond between animals and humans that the Raikas have cherished for generations.
In light of this crisis, WAMIP urges the Rajasthan government to reconsider and lift the ban on camel transportation. Alternative measures can be put in place to protect these magnificent creatures without crippling the livelihoods of the Raika herders.
The plight of Rajasthan’s camels underscores the need for immediate action. Let us join forces to preserve this ancient culture, protect biodiversity, and secure sustainable food resources in the arid region bordering Pakistan. Together, we can ensure that the “ships of the desert” continue to roam Rajasthan’s deserts, symbolizing resilience and heritage for generations to come.
Bhikaram Raika (left) and Karnaram Raika chat alongside the camel caravan. Photo: Hanwant Singh
A caravan of camels is herded on a busy roadway. Photo: Hanwant Singh