​Telangana accounts for 3.5% of India’s total geographical area and 2.9% of population and ranks 12th both in geographical area and population among Indian States. The State is newly formed 29th State in India and blessed with rich livestock resources especially cattle and Sheep population accounting to 5.52% of country’s population. Rural population in the State is predominantly agricultural with more than 2/3 of its workforce being engaged directly in the agriculture sector.​

About 29 lakh families in Telangana State are engaged in livestock sector for their livelihood. The value of livestock produce is estimated to be Rs. 12403 crores at current prices and the livestock sector contributes 4.86% to GSDP (2010-11 Third Revised Estimates).

Telangana is the home tract of Deccani breed of sheep which is well-known for its taste. Nellore and Bellary Sheep breeds are also reared in the state. Sheep breeding and rearing has the potential to offer employment to the landless labour, small and marginal farmers, nomadic and semi nomadic people etc. with little investments and with a potential of generation of quick returns. The products like skin, wool hair, various organs, intestines and almost all parts are value generating, if properly collected and used. The general profile of small ruminants in the Telangana state is as under: