The present study was undertaken purposively in Kathua district of J&K to identify and prioritize the factors determining the use of Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITKs) by dairy farmers in animal husbandry practices. 120 dairy farmers from six villages of three blocks of kathua district (Hiranagar, Billawar and Barnoti) were selected as respondents who had at least one milch animal and those practicing ITKs at the time of investigation. The results of the study revealed that “locally and easily available medicinal plants”

was the most important perceived factor followed by “farmers having deep knowledge of ITK”. In addition “distant location of Veterinary hospital, non availability and high cost of Veterinary medicines” was perceived as the third most important factor that determine the use of ITKs by the dairy farmers in maintaining animal health. Easy availability of indigenous plants, deep knowledge and trust regarding ITK were the main factors that determine the use of ITKs by the dairy farmers.The reason for adoption of ITKs may be due to the fact that it suits their beliefs, habits and traditional values and can be performed using available resources.