As the world’s top milk producer, India confronts feed, health, climate and infrastructure challenges while exploring sustainable dairy opportunities.
India’s dairy sector — the largest milk producer globally — has achieved self-sufficiency in milk production, but sustainability remains a persistent challenge due to structural constraints in feed, fodder and animal health systems. While production has soared, systemic issues such as lack of quality green fodder and rising feed costs continue to undercut profitability for many dairy farmers. The article frames sustainable dairy farming not only as a production philosophy, but as an urgent economic and environmental imperative.
A central theme in sustainable dairy is the choice of animal breeds and husbandry systems. Farmers often prioritise high milk yield when selecting animals, overlooking climate suitability, disease resilience and feed availability — critical factors in long-term sustainability. The piece argues that indigenous breeds and environmentally adapted livestock can improve resilience and reduce management burdens compared to high-yield but climate-sensitive hybrids.
The article highlights the importance of on-farm infrastructure and resource management for sustainability. Proper cow housing with ventilation, hygienic sheds and grazing access improves animal well-being and productivity. It also advocates for in-situ production of organic feed, fodder and renewable energy sources like biogas and solar, which can cut operational costs and improve farm resilience to price volatility and energy shortages.
Key constraints persist around animal health services, nutrition and fodder availability, particularly for small- and landless farmers with limited resources. The piece points to the need for advanced breeding tools, targeted diet supplementation and seasonally accessible fodder resources. Scientific techniques such as hay and silage making, along with improved fodder seed distribution and training, are recommended to strengthen dairy nutrition and performance in diverse climatic zones.
Finally, the article underscores the broader socio-economic and climate context of sustainable dairying, noting that dairy supports livelihoods, provides crop by-products and offers economic cushioning against crop failure. It calls for enhanced infrastructure — including milk collection, refrigeration and organised rural markets — and improved links between scientists, extension services and farmers to sustain dairy growth while mitigating climate impacts.
Source: StateTimes — Challenges and Opportunities in Sustainable Dairy Farming
https://statetimes.in/challenges-and-opportunities-in-sustainable-dairy-farming/
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