India Faces Challenges in Fodder Supply for Livestock

India is experiencing a significant deficit in the supply of fodder for animals. Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh acknowledged the issue in the Rajya Sabha, citing deficits estimated between 11.24% and 32%. To address this, various initiatives like the National Livestock Mission and Fodder Resources Development Plan are in place.

India is grappling with a substantial shortage of fodder for livestock, confirmed Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, on Wednesday.

Responding to a query in the Rajya Sabha, Singh stated, "Yes Sir, the country is deficit in fodder." He highlighted that the Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute (IGFRI) has estimated a deficit ranging from 11.24% to 32% for green fodder and 23% for dry fodder.

To combat this shortfall, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying has been aiding state efforts through the Centrally Sponsored Scheme National Livestock Mission since 2014-15. In July 2021, the scheme was realigned to boost fodder availability through various programs including quality seed production and fodder cultivation on non-arable land.

Additionally, the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) is spearheading efforts to promote 10,000 Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), primarily focusing on fodder-centric initiatives. IGFRI has also devised Fodder Resources Development Plans for 25 states to enhance availability based on local cropping patterns and livestock species.

In parallel, milk production in India has surged from 187.7 million tonnes in 2018-19 to 230.6 million tonnes in 2022-23, with major contributions from Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh. Singh noted that India leads globally in milk production, contributing 25% to the world's total.

(With inputs from agencies.)