Present status of the world goat populations and their productivity

This article offers information on the present status of goat populations and their productivity. The overview discusses number of goats in different parts of the world as well as the top countries having goats. The article also reviews the status of goat milk and meat production over the globe. In addition, breeding objectives and genetic improvement programs for milk and meat are discussed giving some examples of the reputable goat breeding projects. Several selection criteria serving the proposed breeding objectives are also suggested. Advantages of goat keeping and the reasons for their expansion are reviewed. Uncontrolled goat populations have contributed to serious environment degradation in several areas in the past, which serves as a reminder that goats require careful management to avoid irreversible damage to the vegetation.