Farmers in Maharashtra’s Solapur are increasingly diversifying their income through various supplementary businesses such as goat rearing, cattle farming, poultry, fish farming, and dairy farming. Among them, a farmer named Shashikant Pude from Shejbabhulgaon in Mohol area has taken an innovative approach that’s proving highly lucrative.
Pude has started cultivating three types of grass – Gajraj, Dashrath, and Jinjwa -imported from Gujarat. These grasses have significantly improved the nutrition for his Khillar cows, resulting in a daily milk yield of 5 to 5.5 litres per cow. In a conversation with Local18, Pude shared insights into his farming methods and how this unique approach is boosting his earnings.
The Key to Healthy Cattle: Special Grass Varieties
Pude has dedicated his efforts to raising Khillar cows and breeding Khillar bulls. To ensure these animals receive the best possible nutrition, he experimented with growing Gajraj, Dashrath, and Jinjwa grass in his fields. These grass varieties, sourced from Gujarat, have proven to be an excellent source of nutrition for his livestock, leading to increased milk production and higher income.
How Much Does Cow Milk Sell for Per Kilogram?
Currently, Shashikant Pude owns a herd consisting of 9 cows, 2 calves, and 3 bulls. He collects between 15 to 18 litres of milk daily, which he sells to consumers in Mohol at a rate of Rs 80 per litre. Additionally, Pude produces 3 to 5 kilograms of ghee each month, which sells for Rs 3,000 per kilogram.
Jinjawa Grass from Gujarat: A Game-Changer
Pude sources Jinjawa grass from Gujarat, a variety that grows up to 5 feet tall. This grass provides an abundant supply of fodder that remains intact even after being cut, dried, and bundled. Its high nutritional value makes it particularly beneficial for dairy cows.
By cultivating a combination of Gajraj, Dashrath, and Jinjawa grass, Pude has significantly enhanced the diet of his cows. As a result, his cows now produce between 5 to 11 litres of milk per day. Pude shared that after deducting management expenses, his earnings from milk sales range between Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.5 lakh.
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