Willingness to Pay for Veterinary Services: Evidence from Poor Areas in Rural India

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a referendum-style contingent valuation survey conducted in one of the poorest states of India. The objective of the survey was to assess the preference structure and the willingness of poor farmers to pay for veterinary services. The results show that farmers are willing to pay for assured access to veterinary services. Analysis of determinants of the willingness to pay (WTP) showed a significant positive relationship between WTP, household income, and other h ousehold characteristics such as education. Combining the findings of this survey with other closely related studies, and the changing structure the input and output markets for livestock sector, the paper suggests specific policy measures to more effectively meet the expanding livestock services needs of poor livestock farmers.