Since this region is adjacent to Kerala on the
Malabar coast, the region is covered by typical red laterite soil of Malabar. Paddy is
cultivated only in a few Patches. The number of crops raised are 3. Two of which are of
short duration and one of long duration. Tapioca, banana, arecanut, pepper, coconut, etc.
are grown in this region widely. The extent of wet land is limited and is entirely
rain fed.
Prior to merger, there was no regular system of
dealing with livestock services. However, after merger, livestock services in this sector
had been established by the administration. The diseases mainly prevalent among the goats
in Mahe are Mastitis (wet gangrene), retained placenta etc. Bovine and canine are the same
as in other regions. Fowl-pox cocceidiosis, paralysis etc., are prevalent here. The
non-communicable diseases are dyspepsia, enteritis, bronchitis, bloat, urinary-calculi,
etc. These are attended to effectively by the veterinary units.
An artificial insemination centre and poultry
farm also exist here to cater to the needs of the livestock. There are no lands suitable
for fodder cultivation in this region. River beds are generally used as grazing centers.
Cattle shows are conducted annually and this provides incentive for those who rear good
quality cattle.