Low Productivity of Indian Dairy Animals: Challenges and mitigation Strategies

Low Productivity of Indian Dairy Animals: Challenges and mitigation Strategies

 Debajyoti Sarkar¹, Debadrita Baidya²

¹Assistant professor, Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Institute of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, SOADU, Odisha, Bhubaneswar- 751030

sarkardebajyoti@ymail.com

²MVSc Scholar, Livestock Production Management, CVSc. & AH, Navsari Campus, Kamdhenu university, Gujrat-396450

debadritabaidya98@gmail.com

Introduction

India has a substantial cattle and buffalo population, with 193.46 million cattle and 109.85 million buffaloes, reflecting the population increases of 1.34% and 1.06% respectively, according to the 2019 livestock census. This vast livestock base has positioned India as the leading global milk producer for last few decades, with a record production of 230.58 million tonnes during 2022-23, marking a 3.83% increase from the previous year (FAO; BAHS-2023). Globally, cow and buffalo milk production stood at 746.06 million tonnes and 137.76 million tonnes in 2021, respectively.

The population of exotic/crossbred cattle in India includes 3.61 million males and 47.75 million females, in total 51.36 million. This represents a decrease of 39.5% in the male population, an increase of 4.4% in the female population, and an overall increase of 29.3%. In contrast, the indigenous/non-descript cattle population comprises 43.94 million males and 98.17 million females, totalling 142.11 million, with a decrease of 29.1% in males, an increase of 10% in females, and an overall decrease of 6%. Moreover, the buffalo population includes 9.28 million males and 100.57 million females, with a decrease of 42.35% in males and an increase of 8.61% in females compared to the 2012 livestock census.

In 2021-22, the livestock sector in India grew at an annual rate of 6%. The per capita availability of milk increased to 459 grams per day. Milk production saw increases of 3.75% in exotic/crossbred cows, 2.63% in indigenous/non-descript cows, and 3.69% in buffaloes from the previous year. The average milk yield per animal per day is 8.55 kg for exotic/crossbred cows and 3.44 kg for indigenous/non-descript cows. From 2016-17 to 2022-23, the milk yield per animal per day increased from 7.51 to 8.52 kg for exotic/crossbred cows and from 2.84 to 3.44 kg for indigenous/non-descript cows.

In terms of overall milk production, indigenous buffaloes contribute 31.94%, non-descript buffaloes 12.87%, indigenous cows 10.73%, non-descript cows 9.51%, crossbred cows 29.81%, and others 3.30%. Five states—Uttar Pradesh (15.72%), Rajasthan (14.44%), Madhya Pradesh (8.73%), Gujarat (7.49%), and Andhra Pradesh (6.70%)—account for 53.08% of the country’s total milk production. Punjab leads in milk yield per animal per day, with 13.49 kg for exotic/crossbred cows and 8.68 kg for non-descript/indigenous cows, and has the highest per capita availability at 1,283 grams per day.

Despite India’s extensive livestock resources and substantial milk production, the country continues to import dairy and animal-origin products annually. This indicates a gap in meeting full demand and maintaining quality, highlighting areas for improvement in the livestock sector. One of the major reasons behind this scenario is the low productivity of Indian dairy animals and the lack of effective herd management. Here, we discuss potential solutions that could be considered on a large scale to mitigate this problem.

 The reasons behind the unsatisfactory performance of the dairy sector in India

1. Low productivity

The productivity of cows in India is low compared to exotic breeds. Though joint venture of Government and Co-operative implemented “Operation Flood” successfully but due to various secondary constrain, the original output of milk is unable to obtain. This disparity in milk yield has led farmers to focus more on exotic animals. However, Farmers are drawn to exotic breeds primarily due to their high milk yield. While indigenous breeds produce less milk, their lactation period is quite long. Moreover, the rearing cost of indigenous animals is significantly lower than that of exotic breeds. Exotic animals tend to suffer more health issues, which leads to higher indirect costs due to veterinary care and management.

Despite their lower productivity, indigenous breeds have a higher disease resistance. This resilience reduces the need for frequent veterinary interventions, making them more sustainable in the long run. However, the poor productivity of indigenous breeds diminishes their potential, making it difficult for farmers to choose them over exotic breeds solely based on yield. the sustainability of exotic breeds in India is poorer compared to indigenous animals. To overcome those issues, in late sixties onward our government initiated various projects like “Key Village Scheme”, ICDP etc that encouraged the farmers toward cross breed cattle with better milk output than indigenous.

2. Economic paucity of farmer

In India, there are 146 cattle breeding farms under the Animal Husbandry Department, along with 83 other cattle breeding farms. For buffaloes, there are 22 breeding farms under the Animal Husbandry Department and 11 other farms. Additionally, there are 206 gaushalas under the Animal Husbandry Department and 7,919 other gaushalas. The governmental breeding farms primarily preserve elite germplasm, while gaushalas serve as a source of both elite and lower-quality dairy animal populations.

India also has around 75 million rural small-scale dairy farms, each consisting of 10 or fewer cattle. These small-scale farms are typically run by economically deprived families, with women often playing a crucial role in maintaining the livestock as a subsidiary source of income.

Due to the higher milk production of exotic breeds, these private farms predominantly raise exotic animals, which support sustainable economic growth of the farmers. The focus on exotic breeds is driven by their higher milk yield, which is essential for the financial stability of these small-scale dairy operations. However, this preference for exotic breeds needs to be balanced with efforts to enhance the productivity and sustainability of indigenous breeds to ensure long-term viability and resilience in the dairy sector.

3. Low availability feed

Another major reason for low milk yield is the year-round lack of adequate feed and fodder for the animals. Nowadays majority of the farm has land scarcity to cultivate fodder that would fulfil the need of the animals. Limited availability of nutritious feed leads to reduced production and increases the susceptibility of animals to various metabolic and deficiency diseases. In the absence of green fodder especially during winter, animals are often fed rice straw, which provides minimal nutritional value. This practice not only fails to meet the energy requirements of the animals but also predisposes them to conditions like milk fever due to calcium chelation. Additionally, the reliance on poor-quality feed can inadvertently increase the fat percentage in milk, which might not always be desirable.

The imbalance in feed composition is a significant concern for dairy farmers, leading to inevitable financial losses. The farmers have poor idea about nutritional aspect of various feed and fodder; as a result they blindly follow classical myths. For example, after a prolong scarcity of green fodder, when it became available, they feed green fodder abundantly with a concept to make up the loss of fat% but unfortunately leads to acidosis of the animals.  Ensuring a consistent supply of balanced, nutrient-rich feed throughout the year is crucial for maintaining the health and productivity of dairy animals. Moreover, in many cases farmers fed the animal ad lib with all feeds and fodder for prolong period in order to increase the milk output. This venture trigger obesity in animals leading to anoestrus condition instead of increasing yield. Addressing this issue requires coordinated efforts to improve feed resources, including the cultivation of high-quality fodder crops and the development of sustainable feeding practices that can support the nutritional needs of dairy herds effectively along with sound knowledge of farmers toward animal nutrition.

4. Low detection of estrus

Ensuring a calf per year is crucial for maintaining consistent milk production in dairy animals. However, one significant challenge is the low detection rate of estrus among dairy cows. Many farmers are not fully aware of the various behavioral signs that indicate estrus, often relying on a limited set of observable symptoms. This reliance on a few indicators leads to missed opportunities for detecting estrus, contributing to infertility issues.

The reluctance of farmers to learn and adopt advanced estrus detection techniques exacerbates the problem. Without proper estrus detection, it becomes difficult to inseminate animals at the optimal time, reducing the chances of successful conception. This issue is particularly problematic when using sex-sorted semen, which offers over 90% assurance of producing female calves. Inaccurate or missed estrus detection results in fewer opportunities to use this technology effectively.

Improving estrus detection involves educating farmers on the comprehensive range of estrus behaviors and promoting the use of modern detection methods. Technologies such as activity monitors, hormone assays, and timed artificial insemination protocols can significantly enhance estrus detection rates. By adopting these methods, farmers can increase the success rate of inseminations, ensuring a more consistent and productive dairy herd.

5. Old conceptions of cattle rearing

Housing is a critical factor in cattle rearing that directly impacts productivity. Proper housing mitigates environmental stress, ensuring that animals remain healthy and productive. However, many traditional cattle rearing practices do not take into account the variations in regional and agro-climatic conditions. For example, housing systems suited for hot and humid climates are not appropriate for regions experiencing snowfall. This hampers the micro environment of the animal there by reducing the yield.

Many farmers build closed housing structures with low roofs, primarily due to a lack of scientific knowledge. This type of housing can exacerbate environmental stress on the animals. For instance, in hot and humid climates, the absence of ventilation systems such as fans or placement of housing in shaded areas can significantly increase the thermal stress on cattle. Studies have shown that an increase in the Temperature-Humidity Index (THI) by one unit can lead to a measurable decrease in productivity.

Moreover, the farmers nowadays prefer stanchion stall for the animals where they are tied with short chain to move less. This is preferred main due to less land available by the farmers. In this type of housing, animals gain more weight due to lack of movement and thus the reproductive power get hamper.

6. Poor genetic merit among the animals

Genetic merit is a crucial factor influencing production, health, and reproduction in dairy cattle. Animals with low genetic merit are often less productive, even when provided with the same amount and quality of feed as higher-yielding cows. It was observed that the indigenous breed of our country though has good disease resistance character but has low productive genetical character. This disparity results in lower overall efficiency and profitability for dairy farmers.

7. Lack of use of elite males

A significant challenge in improving the genetic quality of dairy herds is the underutilization of elite male bulls. Currently, only a limited number of elite bulls are kept in semen collection stations, leading to a narrow genetic base and reduced genetic diversity. To enhance genetic variation and leverage the superior traits of indigenous elite bulls, it’s essential to increase the number of elite bulls used in breeding programs.

8. Lack of awareness regarding artificial insemination programs

Artificial insemination (AI) is a crucial technique for livestock improvement, enabling controlled and efficient breeding. Despite its growing acceptance in villages, several issues persist that hinder its full potential. As per current scenario, the number of artificial inseminations in India has increased from 73.14 million in 2016-17 to 80.57 million in 2022-23, indicating a positive trend in the adoption of AI. However, significant challenges remain in ensuring its effective and widespread use. Limited Knowledge of Pedigree: Traditionally, inseminations were performed by males of unknown or poorly documented pedigrees. Even with AI, there is often a lack of awareness about the breed and quality of semen used, which can undermine genetic improvement efforts. Many livestock owners and inseminators lack proper training and knowledge about AI techniques, suitable semen to be used to cow and the benefits of using high-quality semen from known pedigrees. This lack of transparency can result in susceptibility to diseases and reduced genetic gains.

9. Improper management of heifers

Heifers are valuable assets for farmers, but improper management during their development can lead to significant losses in terms of both finances and reproductive potential. During the growing phase, heifers require optimal nutrition                                                                                                                                                                                                   to support the development of their reproductive organs and skeletal structure. Heifers that reach puberty late or exhibit estrus at an older age experience a delay in their reproductive cycle, resulting in reduced fertility and prolonged calving intervals. Delayed puberty and estrus not only affect the reproductive period of the heifer but also result in additional feeding costs without corresponding returns in terms of milk production.Early conception leads to earlier calving, resulting in a longer postpartum period and higher milk yield over the heifer’s lifetime.

10. Improper postpartum management

Improper management during the postpartum period can result in metabolic and deficiency diseases that adversely affect the health and productivity of dairy animals.Inadequate nutrition during the postpartum period can lead to metabolic disorders such as ketosis, where cows mobilize excessive body fat to meet energy demands, resulting in ketone accumulation. Insufficient intake of essential minerals such as calcium and magnesium can predispose cows to conditions like milk fever (hypocalcemia) and hypomagnesemia, respectively, which can have serious consequences if left untreated.

11. Improper culling process

Culling, the process of removing animals from the herd, is often necessary in cases of infertility or other health issues. However, the current culling practices may result in the loss of elite genetic material without fully assessing the potential of the animal.In advanced facilities, consider collecting ovaries and preserving ova for future use. This allows for the retention of elite genetic material even if the animal is removed from the herd. Embryo transfer as an alternative to traditional breeding methods. This allows for the propagation of elite genetics through surrogate dams, minimizing the loss of genetic potential due to culling. 

12. Lack of interest in indigenous breed

Farmers often prioritize milk yield, leading to a lack of interest in indigenous cattle breeds. However, these native breeds possess significant potential for higher milk production and offer added advantages such as disease resistance compared to exotic animals. It’s crucial to raise awareness among farmers about the potential of native breeds and promote their rearing. This initiative can ultimately reduce rearing costs and prove financially beneficial for farmers. 

13. Loop hole in identification and finding own strength

Identifying and leveraging one’s own strengths is crucial in dairy farming. While exotic breeds may exhibit higher milk yields, indigenous cattle breeds are renowned for their inherent potential. Promoting indigenous animals can significantly reduce treatment costs and yield higher financial benefits in the long run. Thus, it’s advisable not to solely focus on crossbred or exotic animals but to recognize the value of indigenous breeds in dairy farming.

14. Lack of market for milk

The lack of a well-established market for milk poses a challenge for dairy farmers. While milk can be sold through household services or milk cooperatives, farmers often encounter difficulties in obtaining fair prices for their product. Additionally, many farmers are unaware of value-added opportunities for milk, leading to missed potential for increased income. The discrepancy between the price of raw milk and the market price further discourages farmers from engaging in dairy farming. With only a limited number of milk processing factories and liquid milk plants in India relative to the total milk yield, addressing these market gaps is essential for the sustainability of the dairy industry.In India, there are 287 no  of milk proc. Factories, 1340 number of liquid milk plants only.

15. Disease – prevent export

Inadequate disease diagnosis and treatment facilities, particularly in rural areas, pose a significant challenge to the dairy industry. Many villages lack access to proper veterinary services, leading to reliance on untrained individuals or traditional, experience-based treatments. This often results in ineffective disease management, causing deterioration in animal health and financial losses for farmers. Moreover, the presence of untreated diseases can hinder the export of dairy products due to concerns about food safety and animal health standards. Addressing this issue requires investment in veterinary infrastructure and education to ensure timely and effective disease prevention and treatment measures.

Challenges:

1. Ensuring feed and fodder

Ensuring a consistent supply of feed and fodder throughout the year is crucial for improving the performance of dairy animals. Farmers can enhance their feed resources by cultivating various types of fodder crops such as legumes (e.g., cowpea, Desmanthus, lucerne, stylo), cereal fodder (e.g., maize, sorghum), grass fodder (e.g., hybrid Napier, Guinea grass, para grass, blue buffel grass), and tree fodder (e.g., subabul, glyricidia, sesbania). These crops provide a diverse range of nutrients and can be grown as annual or perennial crops to meet the nutritional needs of dairy animals.

During periods of scarcity, farmers can resort to techniques such as grass silage and concentrate feeding to supplement the feed supply. Additionally, ensuring an adequate fiber content in the feed is essential for maintaining the digestive health of dairy animals. By prioritizing feed and fodder production and management, farmers can improve the overall health, productivity, and sustainability of their dairy farming operations.

2. Ensuring better management

Ensuring better management practices is crucial for optimizing the performance and welfare of dairy animals. Minimizing stressors in the animal’s environment can significantly improve its productivity and overall well-being. This involves protecting animals from excessive exposure to elements such as sunlight, wind, and cold, as well as minimizing exposure to harmful gases in the barn and loud noises from vehicles or machinery.

Providing access to fresh, clean, and soft water at all times is essential for hydration and optimal health. Additionally, ensuring the availability of electricity for lighting and fans can help regulate temperature and improve comfort for the animals, especially during hot weather conditions.

Furthermore, having sufficient labor available to manage all aspects of dairy management is crucial for maintaining a well-functioning system. Adequate staffing ensures that tasks such as feeding, cleaning, and monitoring animal health can be performed consistently and effectively. By implementing these management practices, farmers can create an environment that promotes the health, welfare, and productivity of their dairy animals, ultimately leading to better outcomes for both the animals and the farm as a whole.

3. Ensuring heath care

Ensuring proper healthcare for dairy animals is essential for maintaining their health and maximizing their performance. This includes implementing a comprehensive healthcare program that covers vaccination, deworming, treatment, and care at the appropriate times. Vaccination plays a critical role in preventing diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease, haemorrhagic septicaemia, black quarter, and anthrax. Regular deworming helps control internal parasites, which can negatively impact the health and productivity of dairy animals. Timely treatment of any health issues that arise is also crucial. Prompt intervention can prevent minor ailments from developing into more serious conditions and minimize the risk of chronic injury or illness.By prioritizing healthcare and implementing a proactive approach to disease prevention and treatment, farmers can help ensure the health, welfare, and productivity of their dairy animals, ultimately leading to better performance and profitability.

4. Ensuring a calf in a year

Well-managed cows have a high chance of yielding a calf each year. Proper management practices include timely breeding, adequate nutrition, regular health check-ups, and efficient estrus detection methods to ensure cows conceive and calve on an annual basis. This contributes to higher productivity and better economic outcomes for dairy farmers.

5. Ensuring income generation

Ensuring income generation through dairy farming is crucial for the sustainable development of the dairy sector. By diversifying income streams and maximizing profits, farmers can enhance their livelihoods and contribute to the growth of the rural economy.

One of the primary sources of income in dairy farming is the sale of milk and milk by-products. Farmers can sell fresh milk to local markets, cooperatives, or directly to consumers. Additionally, value-added products such as ghee, paneer, yogurt, and cheese can be produced and sold for higher profit margins.

Furthermore, the sale of dairy animals, including heifers and adult cows, can serve as an additional source of income. Farmers can sell surplus animals to other farmers or livestock traders, providing a steady stream of revenue and helping to manage herd size and composition.

Encouraging the younger generation to participate in animal husbandry can also contribute to income generation and rural development. By providing training and education opportunities in dairy farming practices, young people can be empowered to become successful dairy entrepreneurs, thereby reducing unemployment and stimulating economic growth in rural areas.

Regular training programs and extension services can also play a crucial role in enhancing farmers’ knowledge and skills in dairy farming, including nutritional management, breeding practices, disease prevention, and business management. By equipping farmers with the necessary tools and information, they can make informed decisions to improve productivity, profitability, and overall sustainability in dairy farming.

6. Market development for dairy animals

Developing a robust market for selling milk and milk by-products is essential for overcoming obstacles in the dairy sector. In addition to facilitating the sale of dairy products, the market should provide access for farmers to sell other agricultural commodities and value-added ingredients, thereby creating a more comprehensive and sustainable market ecosystem.One key aspect of market development is ensuring accessibility and affordability for both producers and consumers. This can be achieved by establishing well-organized market channels, including local markets, cooperatives, and online platforms, where farmers can directly connect with buyers and sell their products.Furthermore, efforts should be made to promote the consumption of dairy products and educate consumers about their nutritional benefits. Marketing campaigns, product demonstrations, and outreach programs can help raise awareness and stimulate demand for milk, ghee, paneer, and other dairy items.

Collaboration between government agencies, industry stakeholders, and community organizations is essential for driving market development initiatives. By working together to address infrastructure needs, regulatory challenges, and market access barriers, stakeholders can create a conducive environment for dairy sector growth and prosperity. 

7. Available help to an enthusiastic farmer

For an enthusiastic farmer seeking support in dairy farming, various schemes and programs are available offering financial assistance and advisory services. These initiatives are crucial as they provide guidance and experience essential for successful dairy farming operations, which in turn leads to better profits.

One such program is the “Supporting Dairy Cooperatives and Farmer Producer Organizations,” overseen by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying. This initiative focuses on providing loans to state cooperatives and federations, thereby indirectly aiding farmers involved in dairy farming through cooperative channels. By offering financial assistance, guidance, and assurance of income generation in competitive markets, this program instils confidence among farmers and facilitates their participation in the dairy sector.

Another significant initiative is the “Rastriya Gokul Mission,” which aims to uplift over 80% of low-producing indigenous animals reared by small and marginal farmers and landless labourers. This mission plays a vital role in improving the productivity and sustainability of indigenous cattle breeds, thereby benefiting farmers engaged in dairy farming.

In addition to these government-led initiatives, there are also various state-level schemes and programs offering support to dairy farmers. These schemes may include subsidies for procuring dairy equipment, financial assistance for setting up dairy infrastructure, and training programs on best practices in dairy farming.

Overall, these schemes and programs provide valuable assistance to enthusiastic farmers looking to venture into or expand their activities in dairy farming. By leveraging the resources and support available through these initiatives, farmers can enhance their productivity, profitability, and overall success in the dairy sector.

Moreover, the market should provide incentives for quality and innovation, encouraging farmers to produce high-quality dairy products and explore value-added opportunities. This can include premium pricing for organic or specialty products, as well as support for small-scale producers to implement value-added processing techniques. 

8. Proper chain of connectivity regarding each farmer and their help

Establishing a proper chain of connectivity between dairy farmers and specialized personnel is essential to address any challenges that may arise during the establishment and operation of dairy farms. At the grassroots level, farmers can benefit from regular interactions with agricultural extension officers, veterinarians, and dairy experts who can provide guidance on various aspects of dairy farming, including animal husbandry practices, nutrition management, disease prevention, and breeding techniques. These professionals can offer personalized advice to the specific needs and circumstances of individual farmers.

In addition to on-ground support, digital platforms can enhance connectivity and facilitate timely assistance. Online forums, mobile applications, and social media groups dedicated to dairy farming can serve as valuable platforms for farmers to seek advice, share experiences, and access relevant information from experts and fellow farmers. Moreover, virtual consultations and webinars conducted by agricultural authorities and industry experts can provide real-time guidance and solutions to farmers’ queries.

Furthermore, establishing cooperative networks and farmer producer organizations (FPOs) can enhance connectivity among farmers and facilitate collective action. FPOs can serve as platforms for knowledge exchange, bulk procurement of inputs, collective marketing of dairy products, and accessing government schemes and subsidies. By fostering collaboration and coordination among farmers and stakeholders, FPOs can strengthen the resilience and sustainability of dairy farming communities. Overall, establishing a robust chain of connectivity that integrates both traditional and modern communication channels can empower dairy farmers with the knowledge, resources, and support needed to overcome challenges and succeed in their dairy farming endeavors.

9. Ensuring Easy Availability of Veterinary Drugs

In rural areas, the accessibility of specific veterinary drugs is crucial for maintaining the health and productivity of dairy animals. Setting up local veterinary drug stores orGovernment-Supported Pharmaciesin rural areas can provide farmers with easy access to necessary medications. These stores should stock a wide range of veterinary drugs, including antibiotics, vaccines, antiparasitic, and nutritional supplements. They can be operated either through direct funding or by providing incentives to private entrepreneurs. Subsidies for essential drugs can also help reduce costs for farmers

Promoting the use of Ayurvedic herbs and traditional medicine can be an effective way to complement modern veterinary treatments. Many herbal remedies are cost-effective and can be locally sourced, reducing dependency on expensive synthetic drugs.

Conducting awareness campaigns and training programs for farmers on the proper use and storage of veterinary drugs can enhance their effectiveness and reduce misuse. Educating farmers about preventive healthcare and routine vaccination schedules can also minimize the need for emergency medications.

Mitigation

1. New era of Cooperative

Farmers are the backbone of society, and their collective effort can lead to significant growth in the rural sector. A new era of cooperatives can enhance their unity, strengthen their capabilities, and improve their economic outcomes. When farmers work together within a cooperative, they can share resources and knowledge to address common issues more effectively. This collective approach can lead to quicker resolution of problems related to feeding, animal management, and disease control. Cooperatives enable farmers to pool their resources, such as equipment, feed, and veterinary services. This sharing reduces individual costs and ensures that all members have access to essential resources. Cooperatives can provide members with access to financial services, including loans, insurance, and savings schemes. This financial support can help farmers invest in their operations and manage risks more effectively.

2. Promoting Higher Prices for Indigenous Milk

Dairy farmers should get benefit from the production of indigenous milk, it is essential to establish a monitoring system that adjusts milk prices according to demand, feeding costs, and other relevant factors. This approach can stabilize the dairy market, increase profitability for farmers, and promote the rearing of indigenous breeds. Certified indigenous milk can be marketed as a premium product, enhancing its value and marketability. Introduce a premium pricing policy for milk produced by indigenous breeds. Highlight the unique qualities and health benefits of indigenous milk to justify higher prices and attract consumers willing to pay a premium for superior quality. Awareness campaigns should be there to educate consumers about the benefits of indigenous milk, including its nutritional value, taste, and environmental sustainability. Establish a state-level milk price monitoring system that tracks market trends, demand, and production costs. Implement a dynamic pricing model that adjusts milk prices based on real-time data. This model should account for seasonal variations, supply and demand fluctuations, and changes in input costs, ensuring that farmers receive fair compensation.

Provision of subsidies and incentives to farmers who rear indigenous breeds and produce indigenous milk. These financial supports can help offset higher production costs and encourage more farmers to adopt indigenous breeds.

3. Entrepreneurial Opportunities in Dairy Farming

Dairy farming, when managed effectively and innovatively, presents significant entrepreneurial opportunities. A group of people can come together to initiate and develop a profitable dairy farming venture by focusing on various aspects such as feeding, housing, waste management, and market exploration. Establish a local feed processing plant to produce high-quality feed. This ensures a consistent supply of nutritious feed at lower costs. Invest in silage preparation facilities to preserve fodder for the off-season, ensuring a year-round feed supply and reducing feed costs. Implement a balanced diet plan for the dairy animals, including a mix of green fodder, silage, grains, and nutritional supplements to optimize milk production.

Use animal manure to produce organic fertilizers or biogas. These can be sold in the market or used to reduce operational costs. Identify and market dairy by-products that can be sold online or locally at premium prices due to their reusability and sustainability.

Develop a business model focused on rearing high-quality heifers. Sell these well-developed young cows to other farmers at a premium price. Invest in genetic improvement programs to breed high-yielding, disease-resistant heifers that can command higher market prices. 

4. Animal Insurance in Dairy Farming

Animal insurance is a crucial aspect of modern dairy farming that can significantly mitigate financial risks and enhance the sustainability of farming operations. By insuring their livestock, farmers can protect themselves against the economic impact of unexpected events such as accidental death, diseases, or natural disasters. Insurance provides a sense of security, encouraging farmers to invest more confidently in their dairy operations without fear of unexpected losses. Knowing that their investment is protected, farmers may be more willing to invest in high-quality feed, better housing, and advanced veterinary care. Insurance payouts can be used to purchase new animals, ensuring that the farm’s productivity and income are not significantly impacted by the loss of livestock. Conduct awareness and education programs to inform farmers about the benefits and importance of animal insurance.

5. Development of Slaughterhouses for Managing Low Productive and Male Animals

The establishment of well-managed slaughterhouses can play a critical role in addressing several challenges faced by dairy farmers. By providing a viable option for managing low productive and male animals, slaughterhouses can contribute to the overall efficiency and profitability of dairy farming operations.

By culling low-productive and non-productive animals, farmers can optimize the use of resources such as feed, space, and labor, leading to better management of the herd, used more effectively by productive animals, improving overall feed efficiency on the farm. The sale of meat from culled animals can provide an additional revenue stream for farmers. This is particularly important for managing the financial stability of the farm. In addition to meat, other by-products such as hides, bones, and offal can be processed and sold, further increasing the income from slaughtered animals. Slaughterhouses operated by cooperatives or trusted entities ensure that animals are processed in hygienic conditions, reducing the risk of disease transmission compared to unregulated sources. Regular health checks and monitoring at slaughterhouses can help in identifying and controlling diseases, contributing to overall herd health management. Managing slaughter house required a necessary license and permits from relevant authorities to operate legally.

6. Empowering farmers through education: the key to ideal treatment in dairy farming

Education plays a pivotal role in equipping dairy farmers with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective animal care and disease management. Education empowers farmers to make informed decisions regarding animal health, nutrition, and management practices. With a deeper understanding of dairy farming principles, farmers can confidently navigate challenges and optimize their operations. There is a pressing need for extension work to educate farmers about the importance of proper cattle housing. Farmers should be enlightened about how different housing designs can mitigate environmental stress. For instance, in hot climates, cattle houses should have proper ventilation, possibly with fans, and be placed in shaded areas to reduce heat stress. Conversely, in colder climates, housing should be designed to protect animals from extreme cold while ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent respiratory issues.

Educated farmers are better equipped to identify signs of illness or distress in dairy cows, enabling timely intervention and treatment. By recognizing symptoms early on, farmers can prevent the escalation of health issues and minimize the impact on animal welfare and productivity. Education raises awareness about the importance of vaccination in preventing common diseases such as Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD), Hemorrhagic Septicemia, Black Quarter, and Anthrax. Farmers learn about vaccination schedules and access free vaccines provided by government veterinary dispensaries, safeguarding their animals against infectious diseases. Farmers learn about the responsible use of antibiotics and follow treatment protocols diligently. This helps prevent the development of antibiotic resistance in livestock and ensures that antibiotics remain effective in combating bacterial infections. Education emphasizes the importance of maintaining accurate health records for dairy animals. Farmers learn to track vaccination history, treatment regimens, and health-related observations, facilitating effective disease diagnosis and treatment planning. By maintaining comprehensive health records, farmers can track trends, identify recurring health issues, and seek timely veterinary assistance when needed. This proactive approach to healthcare management enhances the well-being and productivity of dairy herds. Educated farmers understand the value of transparent communication with veterinarians. By sharing detailed information about their dairy animals’ health status and management practices, farmers enable veterinarians to provide tailored recommendations and treatment plans. By prioritizing education and knowledge dissemination, dairy farming can evolve into a sustainable and thriving industry, characterized by optimal animal health, productivity, and welfare.

“A happy farmer is providing food to thousands of people.”

Seizing the Opportunity:

10. Establishing India as a Hub for Animal-Origin Products

India’s burgeoning dairy sector presents a significant opportunity to establish the country as a leading hub for animal-origin products.India exports a wide range of animal-origin products, including meat, milk, dairy products, and hides and skins. By ensuring the quality and quantity of these products meet international standards, India can capitalize on its diverse product portfolio to cater to global markets.The increasing demand for animal-origin products both domestically and internationally presents a lucrative opportunity for Indian producers. By focusing on meeting this demand through sustainable production practices and quality assurance measures, India can further enhance its export potential.Effective disease management strategies, including vaccination programs and biosecurity measures, are essential to safeguard the health and productivity of dairy animals. By prioritizing disease control efforts, India can mitigate the risk of disease outbreaks and ensure the uninterrupted supply of high-quality animal-origin products.Adherence to stringent quality standards is crucial to gain the trust and confidence of international buyers. Implementing robust quality assurance systems throughout the production and supply chain will enhance the reputation of Indian animal-origin products in global markets.

11. Access for Dairy Farming Advancement

With widespread internet access, dairy farmers have unprecedented opportunities to enhance their knowledge, connect with resources, and improve the management of their dairy operations.The internet offers a wealth of educational resources, including articles, videos, and webinars, covering various aspects of dairy farming such as nutrition, breeding, disease management, and farm management practices. Farmers can leverage these resources to stay informed about the latest advancements and best practices in the industry.Through online platforms, farmers can access consultation services provided by veterinarians, nutritionists, and other experts in the field of dairy farming. They can seek advice on issues ranging from animal health and nutrition to breeding and reproductive management, helping them make informed decisions for their herd. Farmers can enroll in online courses and workshops programs to deepen their understanding of specific topics and acquire new skills to optimize their farming practices. Internet-enabled platforms can facilitate virtual farm visits, allowing farmers to virtually tour successful dairy farms and learn from their practices. These virtual experiences can inspire farmers and provide valuable insights into effective management techniques and innovative technologies. Online marketplaces enable farmers to buy and sell dairy-related products, equipment, and livestock, expanding their access to potential buyers and sellers beyond their local area. Access to online platforms and mobile apps providing real-time market price information for dairy products allows farmers to make informed decisions about selling their milk and purchasing inputs at competitive prices.

12. Dairy Management Apps for Farmers

While several apps exist to assist farmers in managing their dairy animals, awareness about these tools remains limited. Encouraging the development and adoption of well-designed apps tailored to the needs of farmers can significantly enhance their ability to care for their livestock. A well-developed app can provide farmers with valuable information and guidance on nutrition in terms of energy, protein, fat and mineral and management practices for their dairy animals. From optimizing feed composition to implementing effective management strategies, the app can serve as a comprehensive resource for farmers. Reproduction-related queries are common among farmers, and an app can offer insights into estrus detection, artificial insemination techniques, and breeding management. This information can help farmers improve reproductive outcomes and maximize the breeding potential of their animals.

13. Available Help at the hand

India boasts a significant network of veterinary dispensaries (22823 number), aid centers (33337 number), and hospitals (13042 number) aimed at supporting the livestock sector. However, to accelerate growth further, there is a need to strengthen this infrastructure and utilize it more effectively. Establish dedicated query stations (24/7 Query Station) where farmers can seek assistance and clarification on various livestock-related issues round the clock. This initiative will provide timely support and guidance to farmers, ensuring their concerns are addressed promptly. Mobile veterinary units have proven effective in reaching remote areas and providing on-the-spot medical assistance to livestock. Expand and optimize these units to cover more regions and address the needs of farmers at their doorstep. Recognize the efforts of specialized veterinary personnel who contribute significantly to the livestock sector. Instituting awards or commendations for their exemplary service will motivate them to continue their valuable work.

“Seeking opportunity is a talent of a growing farmer,”

Conclusion

Addressing the low productivity of dairy cows in India requires a multifaceted approach. Key areas of focus should include improving the availability and quality of feed and fodder, enhancing estrus detection methods, and promoting the sustainability of indigenous cattle breeds. Extensive extension activities, arrangement of training programs, introduction of government-operated schemes to farmers, and exposure to experienced entrepreneurs to motivate farmers are also crucial. By implementing these strategies, the overall health and productivity of dairy animals can be significantly improved, leading to better economic outcomes for farmers and a more robust dairy industry.

 Reference:

Livestock Census, Directorate of Economics & Statistics and Animal Husbandry Statistics Division, Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, M/O Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying.India, D. D. A. H. F. “Basic animal husbandry statistics.” (2023).