Historically there has been a close and mutually nurturing relationship between the forests, agriculture lands, pastures and grazing lands, and similarly between the forest dwelling indigenous communities, settled agriculturists and migratory pastoralists. The livestock species and breeds that evolved each region, are an outcome of the dynamic interactions and relationship of people, the natural resources, and their dependence on each other for survival. The unfolding tragedy of the divorce of livestock from agriculture and other natural resources, forced upon the Indian farmer due to irresponsible public policy through the years, can be witnessed today in every village. It has impacted communities in various ways, and consequently community strategies to address the grave crises challenging their livelihood, are at once different yet share similarities.

Keeping this broad analysis in mind, Anthra has conscientiously chosen to work with different agrarian communities who rear livestock, particularly Adivasis (Indigenous Communities), Dalits, Pastoralists and other marginal and small farmers, particularly women within these groups, so as to be constantly engaged with innovating strategies to strengthen peoples livelihoods in the changing context.