Article in the *Consorcio Manchego* magazine on the SMARTBREED-CLM task force on digital innovations for ruminant livestock farming

Over the last decade, there has been a growing recognition of the urgent need to revitalise traditional livestock farming in Castilla-La Mancha by adopting more competitive and attractive business models, particularly for young people. This urgency stems from the need for a new generation of farmers who can not only ensure the continuity of employment and the rural economy, but also the preservation of local culture, identity and ways of life that are at risk of disappearing as farmers leave the sector and close their farms. It was against this backdrop that the “SMARTbreed-CLM” Operational Group was established to develop an innovative project of general interest: “Digital tools for more sustainable and competitive ruminant livestock farming in Castilla-La Mancha, facilitating decision-making and the socio-economic management of livestock farming”.