Volume 04 Issue 05 January - 2014
Hydroponics Fodder Effects of Nutrition
Livestock Feeding on Reproduction
2 3
Caring for Dairy Cows during Cold Winter Months
Caring for cattle is very important for their optimum health and production. In winter months, special care needs
to be taken to prevent the animals from winter stress and related problems.
Caring for cattle requires dedication and hardwork under
the best of circumstances, but during long and cold winter
months, an even higher level of determination is required.
If you take the time to implement proper precautions
timely, many of the problems and stress associated with the
winter months can be minimized. During this season many
animals often refuse to eat, become feverish and
pneumonitic. This affects the milk production, health and
reproduction of the animal. Normal cow and buffalo body
temperature ranges between 101-102 degree Fahrenheit
and suitable ambient temperature is 65-75 degree F. Severe
cold surroundings result in increased energy loss, which
has to be compensated by giving extra calorie-rich feed
and special care. Breed, nutrition, age, state of lactation,
gestation effects and management are the main factors
Ayurvet Wins CII- ITC Sustainability Award 2013
for its Exemplary Performance and Contribution in CSR Activities
Ayurvet was conferred with the prestigious CII-ITC
Sustainability Award 2013 for its Strong Commitment
towards its exemplary performance and contribution in the
economic, social and environmental segment of its
business. Shri. Sachin Pilot, Hon'ble Minister for
Corporate Affairs, Government of India presented this
award to Mr. M. J. Saxena, Managing Director, Ayurvet
th
Limited at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi on 20
December 2013. Ayurvet had presented and demonstrated
its triple bottom line case study (Economical, Social and
Environmental) for the award.
The Awards are a part of the CII-ITC Centre of Excellence
for Sustainable Development's continued efforts to create
awareness, promote policy and practices, and create
capacity to mainstream sustainability practices. Not only
do the Awards help reward exemplary enterprises for their
pioneering efforts, but this recognition also helps create
Significance of Livestock Sectors Treating Infertility
In Indian Ecoconmy
4 6
affecting milk quantity and quality.
Winter Housing
Outdoor housing has many benefits and cows are very
well-adapted to living in normal cow shed/farms.
Although sheds provide good protection, they need to be
wellventilated and well bedded to avoid trapping
ammonia which can lead to respiratory problems.
Bedding
Although cows have many admirable qualities,
cleanliness certainly is not one of them. Thus, unlike most
animals which have the good sense to stay out of their own
waste, cows will actually lie in it during cold weather to
keep warm. Of course, eventually the manure freezes, and
the cow is left filthy and freezing if you cannot keep them
from this tendency.
Suitable bedding to the depth of 4-6 inches in large
animals and 2 inches for smaller animals should be
provided on puccaa (concrete) floor as direct contact of
animal with cold floor will leads to more body heat loss
through conduction. Paddy straw, dry grass, wheat bhusa,
saw dust, rice husk etc. could be used as bedding material.
Jhuls (clothing) made up of gunny bags may also be used
on larger animals animal's shed and its floor should not
remain wet and cool for longer periods of time.
Feeding
Nutrition, especially balanced rations, fortified and
supplemented with protein ingredients like whole cotton
seed or cakes, becomes important. Rations containing
Contd. on page 5
Mr. M. J. Saxena receiving award from Shri. Sachin Pilot, Hon'ble
Minister for Corporate Affairs, GoI.
beacons of inspiration for others to follow. The ceremony
Opportunities and Challenges
A Common Problem in Cattle Dairy Industry
7
Dear Vets,
Winter season is considered to be flush
season for milk. Due to rapid increase
in domestic demand for milk and
related products, the dairy industry is likely to touch
Rs.5,00,000 crores by 2015.
The milk production is likely to reach 200 MMT from
current level of 134 MMT by 2020. This clearly
indicates, that the veterinarians would have greater
role in maintaining the livestock health and farm
profits.
Needless to mention, apart from management of
healthy feed and fodder, skilled manpower would
play an important role towards achieving this
landmark.
In addition for improving the farm profits effective
utilization of cow dung for production of compost and
gas would go a long way in addressing the farm needs.
This may be a new sector for our field vets, but it is felt
that in coming years, the cow dung would be equally
valuable resource. I suggest, we should look at this
emerging opportunity to help our dairy farmers.
In this issue we have discussed and shared articles on
effective management of livestock during winter
months, role of nutrition in reproduction, treating
infertility, contribution of livestock sector in Indian
economy and opportunities and challenges prevailed
in dairy industry. We hope you would enjoy reading.
We wish our readers a very Happy New Year 2014 and
look forward for your continued support and guidance.
was well attended by some of the most illustrious and
distinguished CEOs who came to receive their awards.
It is worth mentioning that this honour was conferred
on Ayurvet, the only Animal Health Care Company
amongst various public sector undertaking and
renowned corporate houses.
The awards were presented to 23 winning companies
including reputed companies like Tata Steel Limited,
SRF Limited, Infosys Limited, Ambuja Cements
Limited, Ultra Tech Cement Limited, Mahindra and
Contd. on page 2
Preparing the Livestock for
Countering the Summer Stress
 Page 2
AYURVET WINS CII- ITC SUSTAINABILITY... Contd. from page 1
Mahindra Rourkela Steel PlantSteel Authority of India
Limited Reliance Industries Limited, Hindustan Zinc
Limited and Ayurvet Ltd etc.
Speaking on the occasion, Sh. Sachin Pilot, Hon'ble Minister
for Corporate Affairs said, In tackling sustainability issues
such as climate change, the poor will be most affected. It is our
responsibility to empower them so as to conserve and nurture
natural resources. He also said that the top management and
the Boards have to drive the agenda, and allow middle
management the elbow room to execute. Sustainability has to
be built into company ethos.
News and Views
Hydroponics Fodder as Livestock Feed
It is a well accepted fact that feeding dairy animals is
incomplete without including green fodder in their diet.
However, the major constraints in the production of green
fodder are decreasing land size for fodder cultivation, scarcity
of water, more labour requirement, non-availability of good
quality green fodder round the year, requirement of
manure/fertilizer and natural calamities. As an alternative to
conventional method of green fodder production, hydroponics
technology is coming up to grow fodder for farm animals.
Greek word: The word hydroponics has been derived
from the Greek word 'water working'. Hydro means 'water'
and ponic means 'working' and it is a technology of
growing plants without soil, but in water or nutrient rich
solution in a short duration. The hydroponics green fodder
production unit consists of a green house and a control unit.
This machine has a potential to produce 120-960 kg of
green fodder daily in seven days. Inside the green house,
racks are present and each rack contains a number of rows,
Livestock Population to Reach 312 Million by 2015: ASSOCHAM
According to industry body ASSOCHAM, growing at a
compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of about four per
cent, the total livestock population in India is likely to
increase from 280 million in 2012 to about 312 million in
2015.
Cattle constitute a share of about 60 per cent in India's total
livestock population followed by buffaloes (32 per cent),
goats (four per cent) and sheep (two per cent). Pigs, horses,
ponies, mules, donkeys, camel, yaks, mithun and other
varieties together account for the remaining livestock
population across India. There are about 170 million cattle,
over 80 million buffaloes, 11 million goats and over five
million sheep in India.
Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh alone
Rs. 1400 Crore Boost to Dairy Entrepreneurship
In an effort to generate self-employment opportunities in
dairy industry, the government will provide Rs. 1400 crore
for enhancement of milk production, procurement and
other infrastructure required for the sector.
The decision to give a boost to the employment oriented
dairy sector was taken by the Cabinet Committee on
Economic, Affairs (CCEA).
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA)
has approved modification and continuation of the Dairy
Entrepreneurship Development Scheme (DEDA) during
the 12th Plan with an outlay of Rs. 1400 crore covering
activities such as enhancement of milk production,
procurement, preservation, transportation, processing and
marketing. The funding pattern comprises entrepreneurship
contribution, back ended capital subsidy and bank loan.
The objectives of DEDS are to generate self-employment
and provide infrastructure for dairy sector, set up modern
dairy farms and infrastructure for production of clean milk,
encourage heifer calf rearing for conservation and
development of good breeding stock, bring structural
changes in the unorganized sector, upgrade traditional
technology to handle milk on commercial scale, provide
Ayurvet team along with Mr. M. J. Saxena, M.D. Ayurvet
in which trays containing soaked seeds are accommodated.
Pipes containing micro-foggers are fitted just above the
trays for water fogging, which ultimately maintains the
green house humidity.
Save water:To save water through recycling, one water
tank is provided inside each green house with pump
facility.Tubelights are fitted both in walls and roof of the
green house to optimise the light requirement of the plants.
The control unit regulates input of water and light
automatically through sensors. Different types of fodder like
maize, wheat, cow pea, etc. can be grown by hydroponics
technology. The yield of the hydroponics green fodder is
highly influenced by the type and quality of seed, cleanliness
and hygienic condition of the green house. Hydroponics
fodder is more nutritious than the conventional green fodder.
In the situations where conventional fodder cannot be grown
farmers can produce hydroponics green fodder for their
animals.
(Courtesy-The Hindu)
account for about 35 per cent of India's total livestock
population. Bihar, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh,
Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal are other states
with significant livestock population.
While Maharashtra ranks first in indigenous cow
population (3.8 million) followed by Madhya Pradesh (3.7
million). Uttar Pradesh has the maximum number of
buffaloes (8.6 million) followed by Andhra Pradesh (5.2
million).
Rapidly growing human population has resulted in an
upward spiralling trend in demand and consumption of
milk products, meat, eggs, skin, leather, fibre and even wool
not just in India but globally. An increase in number of
livestock is also led by genetically upgraded animals.
value addition to milk through processing and production
of milk products.
Under the DEDA, an amount of Rs.552.19 crore has been
released as back ended capital subsidy to the beneficiaries
for establishment of 1,50,908 dairy units upto Septemebr
2013. The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural
Development (NABARD) will be the nodal agency for
implementation of the scheme.
The bank will implement the scheme through all scheduled
commercial banks, regional rural and urban banks, state
cooperative banks, state cooperative agriculture and rural
development banks and other such institutions, which are
eligible for getting refinanced.
The proposals will be sanctioned by the banks as per
guidelines of RBI, NABARD and the government. The
eligible beneficiaries of the scheme will be entities like
agricultural farmers, individual entrepreneurs, self-help
groups, diary cooperative societies, milk unions, milk
federation and panchayati raj institutions (PRIs).
The scheme will be implemented across the country and
cover all sections of society including women, landless
small and marginal farmers in rural and urban areas.
JANUARY ISSUE 2014
ASK THE EXPERT
Q.What are some management strategies that can be
used to combat cold weather? Ram Kumar, Goa
A. Some of the tips and management strategies to
combat cold weather are as under-
1. The effects of cold stress increase when wind speed
increases and hair coat insulation value is reduced when
wet or muddy. Simple windbreaks, shelters, bush or
bedding can help cows cope with the extreme
temperatures. Be careful not to force cattle into barns or
enclosures during storms as the chances of disease and
getting wet (i.e. condensation dripping off of rafters or the
roof) increase the longer they remain in close quarters.
2. Consider splitting the herd into management groups:
Thin cows could be fed differently than the fat cows
making the best use of existing feed inventories.
Competition between cows often leads to timid,
smaller or younger cattle not receiving their fair share.
3. Feed cattle in the late afternoon or early evening. The
energy from feed that is available to keep an animal's
body warm is known as the heat increment of feeding.
Incremental heat production is at its maximum 4 to 6
hours after the feed is consumed. Therefore, feeding
late in the afternoon provides higher amounts of heat
from fermentation overnight when temperatures are
lowest, making the most efficient use of your feed
supplies and meeting the cattle's energy requirements.
Q.How much grain can be fed during cold weather to
meet the cow's additional energy requirements?
And how does dry matter intake change during
cold weather? Rakesh, Gaziabad
A. Barley contains 1.5 Mcals DE per pound, so adding 3
to 4 lbs of barley to the cow's ration during cold stress
would meet the additional needs. Cows that are not
on a grain ration prior to the cold weather may
experience rumen upset if more than 4 lbs of grain is
introduced into the diet at one time.
Cold weather increases dry matter intake by up to 30%
whereas, snow can decrease dry matter intake by about
15%. If the animal remains dry and a snow layer gathers
on the hair coat it can add insulation value. Cold alone
can increase the need for a change to the ration, however,
since wet or mudded hair coats reduce the insulation
value, this additional stress can cause dry matter intake
to decrease. An increased wind speed reduces the hair
coat insulation and increases maintenance requirements
when the animal is cold stressed.
Q.How does body condition affect energy
requirements during colder temperatures?
Manak, Gurgaon
A. Thin cows require more energy for maintenance than
fat cows. The more subcutaneous fat a cow has, the
greater the ability to withstand colder temperatures.
Cows that lose weight prior to calving can end up
with weaker calves
Q. What is Hydroponics technology and what are its
benefits? Lokesh, Gujarat
A. Hydroponics is the science of soil-less growing of
plants in nutrient rich solutions with very little
water. It is a technique where the physiological
requirements of plants can be met without use of soil
or natural sunlight. Hydroponics techniques have
proven it to be very useful and efficient for producing
food for livestock. The food that is available is free
from undesirable materials such as weeds, insects,
dust, insecticides, germicides, carcinogens.
Benefits of Hydroponics technology -
1. Saving of water, 2. Marginal land usage
3. Reduction in growth time
4. Reduced labour requirement
5. Constant feed supply
6. Enhancement of nutritional value
7. Completely natural
Q.What are the main causes of infertility in dairy
animals? ? Preeti, Meerut
A. Infertility is mainly caused by following reasons;
a) Nutritional imbalance
b) Reproductive tract Infections
c) Congenital abnormalities
d) Hormonal imbalance
e) Management errors
 Page 3
Effects of Nutrition on Reproduction-A Review
Yugal Raj Bindari1, Sulochana Shrestha1, Nabaraj Shrestha1 and Tara Nath Gaire2
1
Himalayan College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (HICAST), Gatthaghar-15,
Bhaktapur, Nepal 2Veterinary Officer, DLSO (Parbat), Nepal
Nutrition plays a major role in enhancing reproductive efficiency in all animals. Minerals and vitamins have got very important role in improving the reproductive efficiency.
However, over feeding of these nutrients can impair the health and efficiency.
Minerals: Minerals are important for all physiological
processes in animals including reproduction. Mineral
deficiencies and imbalances are often cited as causes of
poor reproduction. It is clear that adequate amounts of
minerals must be provided, but little is known about the
effects of marginal deficiencies and imbalances. The same
is true for excessive intakes of minerals which may indeed
be harmful. Producers should avoid overfeeding minerals.
If a little bit is enough, twice as much will not be better and
may in fact cause problems.
An important concept surrounding macromineral balance
is dietary cation-anion difference (DCAD). DCAD
measures the level of four macrominerals: sodium and
potassium, which are cations and carry a positive charge,
and chloride and sulfur, which are anions and carry a
negative charge. The equation for calculating DCAD
balance is: (Sodium + potassium) (chloride + sulfur) =
DCAD in mEq/100g of ration dry matter
Research shows that a negative DCAD prior to calving helps
cows successfully join the milking string, decreasing the
incidence of metabolic disorders postpartum and increasing
early lactation production. By helping cows mitigate the
challenges of the transition period, a negative DCAD helps
maintain reproductive integrity for future lactations.
Phosphorus (P): There has been much debate and
research conducted on phosphorus supplementation
effects on reproductive function. Decreased fertility rate,
feed intake, milk production, decreased ovarian activity,
irregular estrous cycles, increased occurrence of cystic
ovaries, delayed sexual maturity and low conception rates
have been reported when phosphorus intakes are low.
In a field study when heifers received only 70-80% of their
phosphorus requirements and serum phosphorus levels
were low, fertility was impaired (3.7 services per conception).
Services per conception were reduced to 1.3 after adequate
phosphorus was supplemented.
In another experiment, increasing phosphorus
supplementation from 0.4% to 0.6% of the ration had no
effect on days to first estrus or services per conception.
However, in some instances, responses have been reported
in the field when phosphorus supplementation was
increased to 0.5% or 0.6%. The reason for these differences
in response is unclear, but may be related to the availability
of phosphorus that is added to the ration or the actual
amount of phosphorus consumed. Caution should be used
to not overfeed phosphorus-it is costly, of potential
environmental concern, and does not positively influence
reproduction in beef or dairy cattle. The ration containing
0.45 to 0.50 percent phosphorus on dry matter basis should
be provided to high producing cows.
Selenium(Se): Selenium is important for normal
spermatogenesis and largely as a component of seleno-
proteins phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione
peroxidase (PHGPx/GPX4) and Seleno-protein V. Most of
the selenium found in the testis is associated with
PHGPx/GPX4. It serves as a powerful antioxidant
protecting cells from oxidative stress. PHGPx also appears
to be involved as a structural protein to provide normal
sperm motility. It has also been shown that a variant to this
protein is necessary for normal chromatin condensation
and subsequent normal spermatozoa head formation. Both
deficiency and excessive selenium have been demonstrated
to be detrimental to normal spermatogenesis.
Marginally selenium deficient animals will abort, or calves
will be weak and unable to stand or suckle.
Research indicates that selenium supplementation reduces
the incidence of retained placentas, cystic ovaries, mastitis
and metritis. In addition, cattle that maintain adequate
blood selenium levels have reduced incidence of abortions,
still births and peri-parturient recumbency.
Compromised selenium status has also been associated
with poor uterine involution, and weak or silent heats. In
males, selenium supplementation has been shown to
increase semen quality. Symptoms of chronic selenium
toxicity include lameness, sore feet, deformed claws and
loss of hairs from tail. In pregnant animals, selenium
toxicity will produce abortions, stillbirth and weak and
lethargic calves as selenium accumulate in the fetus at the
expense of the cow.
Diets should contain at least 0.1 ppm selenium on a dry
matter basis. In some herds, feed sources must be
supplemented with selenium injections to maintain blood
levels above the recommended 8-10 mg/100 ml. In herds
where selenium levels are extremely low, injections are often
required to rapidly return blood selenium levels to normal.
After injection, feed supplements may provide enough selenium
to maintain adequate blood levels in the cow. Blood tests are
recommended to confirm selenium status when questions arise.
Zinc (Zn): Zinc is an essential component of over 200
enzyme systems of which the metabolic action include
carbohydrate and protein metabolism, protein synthesis,
nucleic acid metabolism, epithelial tissue integrity, cell
repair and division, and vitamin A and E transport and
utilization. In addition, zinc plays a major role in the immune
system and certain reproductive hormones. Zinc is known to
be essential for proper sexual maturity, reproductive
capacity, and more specifically, onset of estrus.
Zinc has a critical role in the repair and maintenance of the
uterine lining following parturition, speeding return to
normal reproductive function and estrus. In bulls, a zinc
deficiency results in poor semen quality and reduced
testicular size and libido.
Zinc has also been shown to increase plasma beta carotene
levels. Increased plasma beta carotene has been directly
correlated to improved conception rates and embryonic
development. Improved zinc status also improves fertility by
reducing lameness, resulting in cows more willing to show
heat and improved mobility and performance of bulls.
Inadequate zinc supplementation results in mild to severe
claw (hoof) disorders, including weak claws that are more
susceptible to inter-digital and digital dermatitis and foot rot.
The recommended dietary content of zinc for dairy cattle is
typically between 18 and 73ppm depending upon the stage of
lifecycle and dry matter intake. Copper, Cadmium, Calcium
and iron reduce zinc absorption and interfere with zinc
metabolism.
A recent study investigating level and source of zinc on a
limited number of crossbred bulls (n=16) demonstrated
that zinc supplementation increased mean ejaculate
volume, sperm concentration, percent live and percent
motility. Studying fertile and infertile male, it was observed
that seminal zinc levels were lower for infertile male than
fertile male and researchers suggested that poor zinc
nutrition may be a risk factor for infertility in male. Zinc
supplementation was shown to reduce asthenozoospermia in
male by reducing oxidative stress, DNAfragmentation & apoptosis.
JANUARY ISSUE 2014
However, there is conflicting evidence as to the importance of zinc
concentrations in the semen and infertility of male.
Copper (Cu): Copper is a necessary component of
number of enzymes including superoxide dismutase, lysyl
oxidase and thiol oxidase. These enzymes function to
eliminate free radicals that increase tissue susceptibility to
bacterial infections, increase structural strength and
elasticity of connective tissues and blood vessels and
increase strength of horn such as in the claw (Hoof),
minimizing lameness.
Reproductive problems that relate to copper deficiency
manifest themselves in inhibited conception rate even
though estrus may be normal. Symptoms of copper
deficiency include early embryonic death, resorption of
embryo, increased retained placentas and necrosis of the
placenta.
Weak and silent heats have been reported. Dairy cows with
higher serum copper levels had significantly less days to
first service, fewer services per conception and fewer days
to open. Proper copper supplementation of the sire is
needed for production of quality semen.
Manganese (Mn): Manganese is an activator of enzyme
systems in the metabolism of carbohydrate, fats, protein
and nucleic acids.
Manganese appears to have a vital role in reproduction. It
is necessary for cholesterol synthesis, which in turn is
required for synthesis of the steroids, estrogen,
progesterone and testosterone.
Insufficient steroid production results in decreased
circulating concentrations of these reproductive hormones
resulting in abnormal sperm in males and irregular estrus
cycles in females. The corpus luteum has high manganese
content and may be affected by level of manganese
supplementation. Also, vaginal manganese concentration
is higher in cycling than in anoestrous ruminants. A
deficiency in manganese may be associated with
suppression of estrus, cyclic ovaries and reduced
conception rate.
Cobalt (Co): Cobalt is needed for proper vitamin B12
synthesis. Maintaining adequate vitamin B12 status benefits
both the dam and offspring. When adequate, sufficient
amounts of vitamin B12 cross the placenta and are present in
colostrums. Milk and colostrums in particular, contain high
levels of vitamin B12 which is required for the conversion of
propionate to glucose and for folic acid metabolism.
Depletion of cobalt and vitamin B12 at parturition causes
depressed milk production and colostrums yield and quality.
Reduced fertility and sub-optimal conditioning of the
offspring are noted in cobalt deficiency. Inadequate cobalt
levels in the diet have been correlated with increased early
calf mortality.
A cobalt deficiency ultimately results in vitamin B12
deficiency.
Manganese, zinc, iodine and monensin may reduce cobalt
deficiency. The required dietary content of cobalt for dairy
cattle is 0.11ppm.
Iodine (I): Iodine is required for synthesis of thyroid
hormone, thyroxin, which regulates the rate of metabolism.
Prior to regulation of the feeding rate of Ethylenediamine
dihydriodide (EDDI), many producer fed iodine compounds
to cattle in excess of the nutritional requirement to prevent
foot rot.
Reproduction is influenced through iodine's action on the
thyroid gland. Inadequate thyroid function reduces
conception rate and ovarian activity. Thus, iodine deficiency
impairs reproduction and iodine supplementation has been
recommended when necessary to insure that cows consume
15-20 mg of iodine each day.
Recently, the effects of excessive iodine intakes have been
recognized.
Excessive iodine intakes have been associated with various
health problems including abortion and decreased resistance to
infection and disease. Signs of subclinical iodine deficiency in
breeding females include suppressed estrus, abortions, still
births, increased frequency of retained placentas and extended
gestation periods. Calves born to cows that are marginally
deficient in iodine are weak and may be hairless. Furthermore,
animals that have a subclinical iodine deficiency will also have
Contd. on page 6
 Page 4
Significance of Livestock, Poultry and Fishery Sectors in Indian Economy
Brishketu Kumar, Rakesh Sheel, Sr. K. Sirohi, Haider Ali, V. Singh College of Agriculture, NAU, Bharuch
India is blessed with livestock health. It has the largest population of cattle and buffaloes, which has inherent tolerance of diseases and ability to thrive under different climatic
conditions. It is therefore important to look at the various opportunities, which can help in creating value for our economy.
Livestock sector includes animal husbandry, dairy and
fisheries sectors. It plays an important role in the national
economy and in the socio-economic development of the
country. It also plays important role in the rural economy as
supplementing family incomes and generating gainful
employment in the rural sector, particularly among the
landless labourers, small and marginal farmers and
women's.
Livestock production performance has been more
impressive than that of food grain production. milk, egg,
meat, and fish showed impressive growth rates of 5 to 10%.
Livestock represents the only way in which the natural
vegetation that covers large parts of India can be converted
into products that can be used by man. It provides drought
power and manure to the crop enterprise and this in turn
provides feed and fodder.
Fortunately India is blessed with a tremendous livestock
wealth. It has the largest population of cattle and buffalo in
the world and its breeds are admired for heat tolerance and
inherent resistance to diseases and ability to thrive under
different climatic condition. The cattle population of India
is very large. According to 2001 census the livestock
population was estimated at 495 million comprised of 203.
1 million cattle, 98.1 million buffaloes 60.7 million sheep,
120.3 million goats and 13.1 million pigs. The others were
estimated at 3.6 million.
India is the fastest growing country and more than 70
percent peoples of India are earning from agriculture and
animal husbandry. India is leading country in total milk
production, so, the animal husbandry plays vital role in
national economy.
The present contribution of livestock to the national
economy is estimated to be 18,000 crores mainly from
milk and milk products (70%), meat and meat products
(11.5%), poultry (8.8%) and dung for fuel (7.8%). In
addition the value of other animal products such as eggs,
wool, leather goods etc. make the total 18,000 crores.
Apart from above items, the value of draught power from
88 million bullocks including 8 million buffalo bullocks
indispensable to agriculture operations is of the order of
Rs. 5000 crores.
Near about 70% of livestock market in India is owned by
67% of small and marginal farmers and by the landless
labourers. Livestock are an important source of income for
the rural poor also. This sector contributed important share
in export of Indian international trade. Recently the
livestock sector playing very important role in poverty
alleviation in rural area.
The livestock sector contributed over 5.26 percent to the
total GDP during 2006-07. According to estimates of the
Central Statistical Organization (CSO), the value of output
from livestock and fisheries sectors together at current
prices was about Rs. 2,82,779 crores during 2007-08
which is about 31.6% of the value of the output of
Rs.8,94,420 crores from agriculture and allied sector.
Highlighting the importance of the livestock sector in the
Indian economy, the Annual Report states that the value of
output from livestock sector at current prices was about Rs.
4,59,051 crore during 2011-12 which is about 25.6% of the
value of output from the agriculture and allied sector.
Milk Production
India continues to be the largest producer of milk in the
world and India produced
13.1 percent of the total
milk produced in the
world. Hence, India has
attained the first rank in
milk production in the
world. At present the first
five countries in the world
producing maximum milk
are India, USA, Russia,
Germany and France. At
the beginning, production
of milk was only 17
million tonnes (MT) in
1950-51 in India. Now it is
increased to 108.5 million
tonnes in 2008-09. World
milk production is estimated at 693 million tonnes during
2007-08 and Indian milk production stands at 104.8
million tonnes. Several measures have been initiated by the
Government to increase the productivity of milch animals,
which has resulted in increasing the milk production
significantly from the level of 102.6 million tonnes at the
end of the Tenth Plan (2006-07) to 127.9 million tonnes at
the end of the Eleventh Plan 2011-12). India, the largest
producer of milk in the world is set to produce over 133
million tones milk during 2012-13.
Despite a higher growth rate, the per capita availability of
milk in India is 252 grams per day which is lower than the
world average of 265 grams per day.
Concentrated diary products such as skimmed milk
continues to be the largest item of export, which together
accounts for nearly 78% of net milk and milk product
exports during 2007-08. The value of output of milk is Rs.
3,05, 484 crore in 2011-12, which is higher than the value
of output of paddy and wheat.
Meat-Production
The meat products industry in
India is largely in the un-
organized sector. With rapid
urbanization, higher income
levels and changes in lifestyle,
market for scientifically
produced and hygienically
packed meat and meat products are expanding rapidly.
Cattle, buffaloes, sheep and goat, pigs and poultry are the
types of animals, which are generally used for production
of meat. Flesh foods/meat and meat products are rich in
protein and are good sources of vitamin B12 which is
absent in plant food.
There is a huge scope for expanding exports, especially in
buffalo and poultry meat, eggs and diary products. The
country has 3,6000 slaughter houses, 9 modern abattoirs
and 171 meat-processing units licensed under the meat
products order.
The meat production has registered a healthy growth from
2.3 million tonnes at the end of Tenth Five Year Plan (2006-
07) to 5.5 million tonnes at the end of the Eleventh Five
Year Plan (2011-12). The Annual growth rate for meat
production in 2011-12 was about 13%.
Out of total meat produce in India, 54% is from mutton and
chevon (Sheet and goat meat respectively), 26% from beef
(buffalo meat), 13% from chicken and 7% from port (Pig
meat). Even though 70% of Indian population consumes
meat the per capita availability of meat is less than 5 kg per
year as compared to world's average of 14 kg per year.
In meat and meat processing sector, poultry meat is the
fastest growing animal protein in India. The estimated
production of meat was 6.5 million tonnes during 2007-08.
According to APEDA(Agricultural and Processed Food Product
Export Development Authority), the export of buffalo meat was
increased from (Rs. 1536.77 crore) in 2003-04, to (Rs.3549.70 crores)
in 2007-08. Indian buffalo meat is witnessing strong demand in
international markets due to its lean character and it's near organic
nature.Indiaisthe6thlargestexporterof bovinemeatintheworld.
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JANUARY ISSUE 2014
In 2008-09, India's export of meat products (including buffalo
meat, sheep/goat meat, poultry products, animal casings and
processed meat) stood at U$ 1.25 billion. The value of output
from meat group in 2011-12 was Rs.83,641 crore.
Poultry and Egg
Poultry is one of the
fastest growing segments
of the agricultural sector
in India today. Their
growth rate has been
rising at 8 to 10 percent
per annum.
As a result, India is now
the world's fifth largest egg producer and the eighteenth
largest producer of broilers. Table eggs and broiler meat are
the major end products of the poultry sector in India. The
organized sector of poultry industry is contributing nearly
70% of the total output and the rest 30% in the unorganized
sector in India.
The Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra
producing nearly 70% of the country's egg production. Egg
production has increased from 21 billion in 1990-91 to
66.45 billion in 2011-12. Poultry development in the
country has shown steady progress over the years. The
poultry meat production is estimated to be about 2.47
million tonnes. Export of poultry products was currently at
around Rs.457.82 crore in 2011-12 as per the report of
Agricultural and Processed Food Product Export
Development Authority (APEDA). The value of output
from eggs was Rs.17,803 crore for 2011-12.
Poultry exports are mostly to Maldives and Oman. Indian
poultry meat products have good markets in Japan,
Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore.
Fish Production
India has about 8041 km of
coastline, and about 5.70 million of
fresh water area suitable for fisheries
production. Fishing, aquaculture
and allied activities are reported to
have provided livelihood to over 14
million persons in 2006-07.
At present, India's total fish production is about 76.21
thousand tonnes. This sector has great potential to export
their fish and fish product also.
Since 1991, overall export of fish raised at considerable
rate. According to the data provided by Ministry of
Agriculture and Commerce of India, the export of fish and
fish products increased from last ten years. India is the second
largest producer of fish and the second largest producer of
fresh water fish in the world.
Fish production has increased from 41.57 lakh tonnes
(24.47 lakh tonnes for marine and 17.10 lakh tonnes for
inland fisheries) in 1991-92 to 86.66 lakh tonnes (33.71
lakh tonnes for marine and 52.95 lakh tonnes for inland
fisheries) in 2011-12. The value of output from fisheries
sector was about Rs.76,699 crore during 2011-12 which is
Contd. on page 8
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 Page 5
Caring for Dairy Cows... Contd. from page 1
about 17 percent fibre in the animal feed are also helpful to
increase fat percentage in milk. Concentrate mixture
should comprise grains (40 percent), oil cakes (32 percent),
brans (25 percent), mineral mixture (2 percent) and
common salt (1 percent). Apart from this the extra energy-
rich grains at approximately 0.8 percent of body weight
should be fed to counter the stress of cold for maintaining
normal milk production and other activities. Sometimes a
small amount of jaggery can be diluted and sprinkled over
the silage and then closed inside the barrel to be used later.
We find that the animals love the taste of this feed. Water,
possibly lukewarm, should be clean and available four
times a day at their drinking time.
To avoid incidences of nitrate toxicity and bloat in winter,
the leguminous fodders should be mixed with either non
legumes or wheat bhusa.
Feeding of Pregnant Cows
Body condition should be assessed as a cow goes into
winter; she should be fed to maintain or regain moderate to
good condition -- to withstand the rigors of bad weather
without loss of production. Thin cows suffer more cold
stress and rob body fat stores to keep warm. Calves may be
born weak, cows may not produce adequate colostrum, calf
survivability is lowered, as is the cow's ability to breed back
on time. To help cows maintain health and body condition,
vaccinations should be kept up to date, parasite populations
should be determined (and cattle dewormed) and
windbreaks and bedding should be provided during the
worst of winter's storms. After calving, the cow's energy
requirements should increase, depending on her milk
production. Inadequate feed at this time can lower weaning
weights and reduce conception rates when cows start to
rebreed. If cows calve during winter (January, February,
early March), care must be taken to ensure adequate
nutrition. How much feed a cow needs during early
lactation depends on her milking ability and upon the
Ayurvet Uttam Santulit Pashu Aahar
offers one such opportunity to feed the
animals effectively during winter months
JANUARY ISSUE 2014
weather -- how cold or wet it is. If the cow is shortchanged
on feed during cold or wet weather and isn't able to supply
her needs for lactation and body warmth, she'll lose weight
and have trouble rebreeding.
Udder moisturising Balms
One of the banes of winter milking is to fight against
cracked and chapped skin. While winter weather can wreak
havoc on your own skin, your dairy cow will also suffer
from udder ailments if the udder is not kept dry and
moisturized. Care should be taken to dry the udder
thoroughly. There are many commercial moisturisers can
be used with highly effective healing and moisturizing of
cracked udder. One of the banes of winter milking is to fight
against cracked and chapped skin. While winter weather can
wreak havoc on your own skin, your dairy cow will also suffer
from udder ailments if the udder is not kept dry and
and depressed should be viewed as a possible case of
moisturized. Care should be taken to dry the udder thoroughly.
pneumonia; an increased rate of respiration and loss of
There are many commercial moisturisers can be used with
appetite are signs of more advanced pneumonia and
highly effective healing and moisturizing of cracked udder.
should be treated very seriously. Pneumonia is most
common during the late winter/early winter months.
Keeping cows dry and well-ventilated is essential to
preventing pneumonia, but if you suspect an animal has
become ill, they will need veterinary care.
EWinter Dysentery: Although rarely fatal, winter
dysentery is an alarming and rather unpleasant illness
caused by bovine Coronavirus. This disease causes
extremely runny, blackish-green diarrhoea. You may
also see a dramatic decrease in milk production.
Although this disease does not usually require treatment,
electrolytes and proper nutrition will improve recovery
time. Winter dysentery can be minimized or avoided by
keeping housing clean over the winter and moving
feeding areas often.
EBacterial abortions: Your cow will be more susceptible
to abortion- including agents over the winter, so if your
cow is bred special care should be taken to keep her clean
and healthy. Consult with your vet about potential threats
in your area, and make sure to move feeding areas more
frequently in order to reduce bacterial growth.
Although caring for cows during cold weather can seem
like a challenge, once you are prepared the winter months
can be extremely rewarding. Maintaining a positive
attitude is vital during the long winter months, and if you
are able to keep smiling through the cold, your dairy cow
will reward your with fresh, wholesome milk through the
long winter months.
Winter Diseases
Winter is a prime time for diseases to flourish in all
livestock, and dairy cows and calves are no exception.
While there is no way to fully prevent winter outbreaks,
there are some diseases that are common and should be
assiduously watched for over winter:
EViral and bacterial pneumonia: Any cow that is listless
 Page 6
Treating Infertility, a Common Problem in Cattle
Dr. T. Senthilkumar, Assistant Professor, Directorate of Extension Education, TANUVAS, Chennai
Infertility in cattle accounts for major economic losses in dairy farming and dairy industry in India. Maintaining an infertile animal is an economic burden and in most
countries such animals are driven to slaughterhouses. In cattle, nearly 10-30 per cent of lactations may be affected by infertility and reproductive disorders. To attain good
fertility or high calving rate both the male and female animals should be well fed and kept free from diseases.
Reproduction is the first system to be affected
by malnutrition
Right Nutrition:
Cattle should be fed with a well balanced diet to increase
conception rate.
Infertility in cattle accounts for major economic losses in
dairy farming and dairy industry in India. Maintaining an
infertile animal is an economic burden and in most
countries such animals are driven to slaughterhouses.
In cattle, nearly 10-30 per cent of lactations may be
affected by infertility and reproductive disorders. To attain
good fertility or high calving rate both the male and female
animals should be well fed and free from diseases.
Many reasons
The causes of infertility are many and can be complex.
Infertility or failure to conceive and give birth to a young
one can be due to malnutrition, infections, congenital
defects, management errors and ovulatory or hormonal
imbalances in the female.
Sexual cycle
Both cows and buffaloes have the sexual cycle (oestrus)
once in 18-21 days for 18-24 hours. But in buffaloes, the
cycle is silent posing a big problem to the farmers.
Contd. from page 3 Effects of Nutrition on ...
increased incidence of foot rot and respiratory disease due to
suppressed immune responses. One notable characteristic of
a clinical iodine deficiency is an enlargement of the thyroid
gland, often termed as goiter.
Potassium (K): Limited research suggests that feeding
high levels of potassium may delay the onset of puberty,
delay ovulation, impair corpus luteum (yellow body)
development and increase the incidence of anestrous in
heifers. Smith and Chase reports lower fertility in cows fed
with high levels of potassium or diets in which the
potassium-sodium ratio was too wide.
Chromium (Cr): Chromium potentiates insulin action,
resulting in increased uptake of glucose and amino acids
by cells in the body. A chromium deficiency in lactating
cows may result in increased incidence of ketosis and
decreased milk production. Improved energy balance in
early lactation may improve reproduction.
Salt (Sodium and Chloride): Salt deficiencies can affect
the efficiency of digestion and indirectly the reproduction
performance of cows. Sodium and chloride normally do not
appear in feedstuffs in adequate amounts to meet animal
requirements and should be provided free choice at all times.
Vitamins: The vitamin requirements of dairy cows are
met by a combination of rumen and tissue synthesis, natural
feeds and feed supplementation. Most commercial
concentrates contain supplemental vitamins so the
probability of infertility due to a vitamin deficiency is
greatly reduced. When commercial concentrates are not fed,
vitamin supplements should be provided. Proper vitamin
and mineral balance must be provided in dry cow rations
when feed intake is restricted and (or) low quality forage is
fed to control or reduce body condition. To ensure adequate
intake, vitamins and minerals should be fed in small amounts of
low energy concentrates or mixed in a complete dry cow ration.
Vitamin A: Vitamin A is one of the fat soluble vitamins
and is well known to regulate the development, cellular
growth and differentiation, and tissue function. Its
metabolites affect ovarian follicular growth, uterine
Successful heat deduction is possible only when the
animals can be properly identified when they come in
oestrus (heat), proper maintenance of records and proper
training of staff.
The farmers should closely monitor the animals 4-5 times
from early morning to late night. Poor heat deduction can
cause increased levels of infertility.
Considerable skill is needed to deduct the animals in heat for
visible signs. Farmers who maintain good records and spend
more time watching the animals obtain better results.
"To avoid fertilization failure, breeding should be done during
the oestrus period. Animals that do not show oestrus or do not
come to cycle should be checked and treated,"
Deworming once in 6 months should be done for worm
infestations to maintain the health status of the animals.
Periodic deworming
A small investment in periodic deworming can bring
greater gains in dairying. Generally vaccinations are
avoided during pregnancy. For successful dairy farming,
nutrition plays an important role.
Reproduction is the first system to be affected by malnutrition.
environments and oocyte maturation. Vitamin A is
required for maintaining healthy tissue in the reproductive
tract. In deficient cattle, delayed sexual maturity, abortion,
the birth of dead or weak calves, retained placenta and
metritis have been reported. A deficiency of vitamin A has
a direct effect on the structure and function of pituitary
gland, gonads and uterus. Livestock, particularly
ruminants, consume vitamin A, mainly in inactive form,
the carotenes or provitamin A, except when it is fed as a
supplement in cereal based concentrates. Provitamin A is
converted into active vitamin A in small intestine and
together with preformed vitamin A stored in liver.
Vitamin D: Vitamin D is required for normal calcium and
phosphorus metabolism. However, deficiencies are seldom
encountered in commercial herds. Animals with vitamin D
deficiency symptoms have a stiff gait, labored breathing, weakness
and possibly convulsions. Swollen knees and hocks can also
occur. Bones may be soft (rickets) or be reabsorbed in older
JANUARY ISSUE 2014
Balanced diet
Cattle should be fed with a well balanced diet with energy,
protein, minerals and vitamin supplements. This helps in
increased conception rate, healthy pregnancy, safe
parturition, low incidence of infections and a healthy calf.
Care of young female calves with good nutrition helps
them attain puberty in time with an optimum body weight
of 230-250 kgs, suitable for breeding and thereby better
conception.
Feeding adequate quantity of green fodder during
pregnancy will avoid blindness in newborn calves and
retention of placenta (after birth).
In natural service, breeding history of the bull is very
important to avoid congenital defects and infections.
Infections of the uterus can be largely avoided by having
cows served and calved under hygienic conditions.
After 60-90 days of insemination, the animals should be
checked for confirmed pregnancy by qualified
veterinarians.
When conception occurs, the female enters a period of
anestrus (not exhibiting regular oestrus cycles) during
pregnancy. The gestation (pregnancy) period for cow is
about 285 days and for buffaloes, 300 days.
Avoid transportation
Unwarranted stress and transportation should be avoided
during the last stages of pregnancy. The pregnant animal
should be housed away from the general herd for better
feeding management and parturition care.
Pregnant animals should be drained of their milk two
months before delivery and given adequate nutrition and
exercise.
This helps in improving the health of the mother, delivery
of a healthy calf with average birth weight, low incidence
of diseases and early return of sexual cycle.
Breeding cycle
Breeding can be started within four months or 120 days
after delivery to achieve the goal of one calf per year for
economic and profitable dairy farming.
animals. Calves may be born dead, weak or deformed. Cows may
not show heat when exposed. Recent research has implicated
Vitamin D with heart health, cancer and infectious diseases. In
areas where sunlight is limited or on operations where animals are
housed indoors, supplemental vitamin D is required. If an animal
is losing weight or has a poor body condition score, vitamin D
can be deficient Cows receiving a normal amount of natural
light manufacture their own Vitamin D. Most commercial
concentrates contain supplemental vitamin D in amounts
sufficient to meet the cow's requirement of 10,000 IU per day.
Vitamin E: Vitamin E functions as an intra-cellular
antioxidant scavenging for free reactive oxygen and lipid
hydroperoxidases, and converting them to non-reactive forms,
thus maintaining the integrity of membrane phospholipids
against oxidative damage and peroxidation. The investigation
for the role of vitamin E in reproduction continues. To date
there is no documented evidence that vitamin E deficiency is a
significant cause of reproductive failure in dairy herds.
Moreover, the vitamin E requirement of milking cows is not
known with certainty. In one experiment, cows were fed low
vitamin E rations for four generations. There were no
measurable effects on reproduction. In vitamin E and selenium
deficiency condition, these free radicals accumulate and not
only damage cell membranes, but also disrupt several
processes linked to the synthesis of steroids, prostaglandins,
sperm motility and the development of the embryo. It is not
surprising therefore that negative impacts of vitamin E and
selenium deficiencies have been observed on various
components of the reproductive events, including ovulation
rate, uterine motility, sperm motility and transport, conception
rate and post-partum activities b, fetal membrane expulsion,
embryo survival, milk production, post natal growth.
Conclusion: It is clear that nutrition is directly related to
reproduction in the dairy cow. Nutrient either in deficient
amount or in higher amount has been shown to be capable of
altering reproduction. The basic problem is that the degree of
the excess, deficiency or imbalance which is required to alter
reproduction is still unclear. The best recommendation at present
is to provide a feeding program for dairy cows which is balanced
for all nutrients and meets all known nutrient requirements.
 Page 7
Opportunities and Challenges Facing Dairy Industry
Dr. Madhu Shelly, Asst. Prof. (Animal Sciences) KVK,Muktsar
In Punjab, milk production is a very important part of the
agricultural economy. Punjab is one of the smallest states
in Indian Union with a total area of 50362 sq.km. which is
1.5% of the Indian landmass. Dairy farming is an age old
subsidiary profession in the rural areas of Punjab. Punjab is
the second largest milk producing state in India, producing
around 10% of the country's milk production, that is, 8
million tones annually. India is the world's largest milk
producer today.
In the past 15 years, milk production in India has doubled
and is now over 100 million tones a year thus becoming
India's No.1 farm commodity. Despite being the largest
milk producer, the country's average milk yield falls far
below the world average.
We have a large cattle (cow, buffalo) population in the country
which comprises one-sixth of that available in the world.
Percapita milk availability stands at 223 and 926 gms/day
for India and Punjab respectively. India's milk production
is expected to grow at about 3% per annum. However due
to increasing population, per capita availability of milk is
expected to increase by only about 1.5% per annum. Based
on estimates by National Dairy Development Board
(NDDB), the demand for milk is likely to reach 180 million
tonnes by 2022. This leads to mismatch between demand
and supply, hence creates opportunities for new entrants to
this industry.
Post production loss of livestock products: A Big concern for Indian Economy
Livestock products are integral part of food basket since
time immemorial and considered as essential for
maintenance of life, growth, production and reproduction
due to its high nutritive value. India is a largest producer of
livestock products.
Livestock now controls a quarter of the agriculture gross
domestic product (GDP). In 2010-11, it generated outputs
worth Rs 3,40,500 crore (at current prices). This was 28
percent of the agriculture GDP and about 5 percent of the
country's GDP. The total output from livestock was
higher than the value of food grains (Rs 3,15,600 crore)
and fruits and vegetables (Rs 2,08,800 crore), and this is
going to go up substantially, estimates Dr. V. K. Taneja,
Vice-Chancellor of Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and
Animal Science University in Ludhiana.
On the World's Dairy map, India proudly stands at highest
pedestal. The total milk production is 127.9 million tonnes
and the per capita milk availability to an Indian is 290g/day
which is more than the World's average of 284g/day.
Though much has been achieved but still we are falling
short because of rampant losses due to lack of fragmented
cold storage and refrigerated transport, revealed by Dr V.K
Taneja.
Factors that make dairy a safe sector to venture into:
EThe demand for milk and its products is active year
round. In fact demand is increasing day by day.
Consumption is on the rise by both vegetarians as well as
non-vegetarians.
EDairy farming does not need skilled labour, thus
reducing costs and making availability of labour easy.
EUnlike other agricultural sectors, dairy is not dependant
on rains and production goes on year round.
EReturns on this business are available within a month.
Today virtually no other business offers such a short
gestation period.
EUse of byproducts provides additional income and
increases returns. For example, dung can be used to
produce biogas cooking and even as manure and
compost.
EVeterinary aid is available at most the villages in india.
EThere is no direct competition from the foreign
counterparts.
EIncentives available from the government, both central
as well as state.
EMarketing of the end product that is milk is very easy (as
compared to other businesses). However if value
addition is followed even at the small scale, profits can be
increased considerably. With no expenses incurred for
marketing channels: no shop required.
Why dairy business goes into losses:
In rural areas of our country. Farmers carry on dairy
actively secondary to their main agricultural activity. Also
dairying is carried on in a traditional manner as was being
done by past generations. For example the same patterns of
feeding and watering are followed as was being done years
ago.
Lack of scientific and modern methods, proper training and
proper counselling are some of the reasons why a dairy
might fail.
It is commonly seen that most of the farmers who keep
animals for milk have very little or no idea about the
expenses (per day) involved in raising the animals. it is
interesting to note that the farmer is even unaware of the
The White revolution has changed the face of Indian Dairy
industry and now we are striving hard for bringing in The
Pink Revolution which relates to production of meat.
Currently India is producing around 6.27 million tons of
meat which is 2.21% of the total world's production. To
produce such a large quantity of meat around 103 lakh
buffaloes, 478 lakhs goats and 7560 lakhs chicken are
slaughtered annually. Along with the edible meat, there is
annual production of 7.1 million tones of inedible
byproducts, which are neither properly collected nor
stored. This not only leads to a financial blow but also
generates a potent environmental pollutant. This load is
further increased by dead and fallen animals. The non
utilization of byproducts has lead to high price of meat in
India. There is a dire need to improve the status of meat
industry in India, said Dr Manish Kumar Chatli, Professor
and Head, Department of Livestock Products Technology,
GADVASU.
AYURVET SOLUTIONS FOR OPTIMUM GROWTH
& BOOSTING MILK PRODUCTION
JANUARY ISSUE 2014
fact that the feeding cost of his animal comprises of more
that 80% of the total cost of rearing the animals. Perhaps
the main reason for this may be that the farmer grows the
majority of the green fodder in his own land and has never
bothered about its cost.
Awareness on the part of the dairy farmer about the
economics of his day to day business is important. It will be
ideal for all the entrants into this file to get help from the
consultants who are well versed with all the aspects of
dairy farming viz.
ESelection of proper breed for maximum animal
productivity.
EConstruction of proper cattle sheds.
The cost incurred in 1 and 2 will be one time only and will
be depreciable.
However, all the cost given below (in 3 to 7) are recurring
and (do account for more than 80% of the farming costs)
have to be controlled from day one to see that the farms
make profits.
Management practices as regard to
1. Importance of balanced nutrition
2. Importance of growing green fodder
3. Reproduction (reproductive cycle) management
4. Nutrition: feeds and feeding
5. Preventive health management: for preventing
occurrence of diseases in the farm
6. Optimisation of profits by value addition of milk;
making milk products like ghee, khoa/paneer, milk
powder, table butter, cheese/ edible casein, ethnic sweets,
ice-cream etc.
7. Productivity enhancement: This will lead to farmers
getting more milk from same number of animals, which
will improve his profitability.
Proper records should be maintained to get
quicks information on:
E The money accrued from the sale of milk
E Other income (of manure, sale of calves, gunny bags
etc) from the farm
E Dairy expenses which are visible
E Monthly expenses: not seen but are cutting into our
profits due to cases of repeat breeding etc.
E Dairy/yearly profit per animal along with the expenses
there of.
Livestock products include milk, meat and eggs are of
perishable nature. The proper storage and preservation has
been an area of concern. There is long way from the Farm
to the Fork and it requires hygienic handling and storage of
livestock products. Without improving the cold storage
facilities, the control of loss of livestock products cannot
be realized. The main problem is lower installation
capacity and poor power backup in the cold stores which
are spread unevenly leading to fragmentation in cold
chain. The existing facilities are also not upgraded and
there is poor awareness of Good Storage Practices among
prominent players. We need to strengthen the post
production facilities in our country for proper utilization of
livestock products. Today, we are just harnessing the
benefits of about less than half of what we produce. So the
problem lies in consolidation of what we have and by
improving our storage facilities, we can achieve the target
of becoming the leader in livestock products.
 Page 8
Significance of Livestock, Poultry.... Contd. from page 4
about 4.15% of the value of agricultural and allied sector output.
Animal Draught- Power
The bullock pair may be regarded as the backbone of
Indian Agriculture. Though the animal draught power does
not relate with human nutrition directly. Indirectly it
contributes in the production of food grains.
The renowned draught animals (cattle and buffaloes)
include Khillar, Amritmahal, Hallikar, Ongole, Malvi,
Rathi, Nagore, Neman, Hariyana, Gir and Deoni. There are
about 86 million draft animals, which comprise of 76
millions bullocks, 8 million buffaloes, 1 million camels
and donkeys.
80% of the agriculture/farm operations are done by
bullock drawn implements. It is estimated that 40,000
megawatts of energy (Traction power) is made available
through the use of draft animals and the value of this has
been estimated Rs.5000 crores.
Farm yard Manure for Organic Farming
A minimum of 10-20 kg dung is obtained on an average from
every cow or buffalo. This is an excellent source of F.Y.M. or
compost manure. This is badly needed to improve the inherent
soil fertility, and to have the extended manorial effect on the
crops parts. Dung cakes are utilized as a source of fuel in rural
parts of India.
It is estimated that 640 million tons of cow dung is being
utilized to meet the house hold fuel requirements. Besides the
cow dung, goat excreta, and poultry dropping can also be better
utilized for organic farming.
Employment Generation
Animal Husbandry & Dairying may be regarded as a
Ayurvet Wins Rmai Flame Award 2014
for its Exemplary Performance and Contribution in Rural Communication
Dr. Anup Kalra receiving the award from Mr. Salil Dalal,
President Rural Divison at Pidilite and Mr. Puneet Vidyarthy,
General Manager & Head Rural at JCB India Limited
Ayurvet won another prestigious RMAI (Rural Marketing
Association of India) Flame Awards 2014 on 17th January
2014 at Hotel Taj Vivanta, Gurgaon for excellence in Rural
Marketing and Communications. The objective of these
awards is to recognize and reward successful case studies
in rural marketing.
LIVESTOCK FUTURE Bi-monthly magazine related to Livestock news for Veterinary Industry
Publisher: M.J. Saxena
Editor: Dr. Anup Kalra
Editorial Board: Dr. Praful Verma , Dr.Ashish Sachdeva & Dr. Shivendra Deora
Asstt. Editor: Swati Srivastava
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Layout, Design: Amit Behl
Editorial Office: Ayurvet Limited, 6th Floor, Sagar Plaza Bldg. Laxmi Nagar Distt. Centre, Vikas Marg, Delhi - 110092
Tel: 011-22455992-94, Fax: 011-22455991
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source to create the employment in rural areas all round the
year. Indian Agriculture is mainly dependent on monsoon
and hence agriculture filed faces certain bottlenecks to
provide employment during such periods.
On an average Agriculture sector may provide 200 days
employment to the rural persons. This means they have to
find alternate source of employment for income during the
rest of the year. Dairy farming, sheep and goat rearing,
poultry production, pig farming, rabbit rearing are the
alternate sources of mix farming.
It may be possible to generate the employment for the
farmers as well as landless labourers who can do this job
themselves, or it may be possible to employ young and the
old family persons as a side business. Many of the
operations in Animal Husbandry and Poultry Farming can
be done by rural women.
Benefits of Livestock Sector Developments in India
Animal Husbandry sector provides large self-employment
opportunities. Presuming that one family member is
employed in looking after the livestock, 25 million people
are estimated to be employed with the livestock rearing
The Flame Awards were instituted by the Rural Marketing
Association of India in 2006 to recognize excellence in
marketing, promotion and initiatives in rural markets of
the country.
Ayurvet received this award under the category of
Integrated Long Term Campaign of the YearA Rural
Communication Campaign for Ayurvet Pashu-Jagat
Radio Programme. Ayurvet had submitted the case study
on rural communication campaign through Ayurvet Pashu-
Jagat Radio Programme an joint initiative with Animal
Husbandry Department and All India Radio for Improving
Farm Profits.
It is worth mentioning that the competition was very tough,
however out of 209 entries received for various categories,
we were amongst the winners.
The eminent jury comprising brand custodians,
educationists and other experts in the field of rural
marketing including Mr. S. Sivakumar Chief Executive
(ABD) ITC Ltd, Ms. Geetu Verma, Executive Director,
Unilever Ltd along with other senior executives from Dabur
India Ltd, Harish Bijoor Consultants Inc., NIILM Centre of
Management Studies, Bloomberg TV India, Eicher Tractors
& Glaxo Smithkline evaluated the applications.
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JANUARY ISSUE 2014
activity. This sector is playing very important role in the
rural economy as support sector of the economy.
Especially 70 million rural households primarily, small
and marginal farmers and landless labourers in the country
are getting employment opportunities in dairy. Dairying
has become an important secondary source of income for
millions of rural families.
Poultry is also another way of getting food and food
security in India. Apart from food security it has provides
employment to about 1.5 million people. Livestock Sector
not only provides essential protein and nutritious human
diet through milk, eggs, meat etc. but also plays an
important role in utilization of non-edible agricultural by-
products. Livestock also provides raw material/by-
products such as hides and skins, blood, bone, fat etc.
This provides subsidiary occupation to a large section of
the society particularly to the people living in the drought
prone, hilly, tribal and other remote areas where crop
production on its own may not be capable of engaging
them fully. In the adverse climatic conditions and national
calamities like drought, flood etc., animal husbandry
practices shall be proved to be boon for sustaining the
livelihood of the landless and marginal farmers in the state.
Conclusion
Indian livestock industry makes up for a significant amount
of world's livestock resources. Both the national economy as
well as the socio-economic growth of the country is backed
by the livestock sector. Besides, offering great potential and
outstanding contribution in the agricultural sector over the
past years, the livestock sector is performing well in the
manner of production, value addition and export of diary,
fishery, wool, poultry and other products.
Dr. K. S. Dangi is Chairman of Haryana
Livestock Development Board
The government has appointed Dr. K. S.
Dangi as the Chairman of Haryana
Livestock Development Board (HLDB).
Dr. Dangi retired from the post of Director
General, Animal Husbandry and
Dairying, August last. He has been the
longest ever Head the Department of
Animal Husbandry in the country with more than 14
years of service. Dr.Dangi is a gold medallist of
veterinary college, Hisar, with a Ph.D from one of the
leading universities of US. The services of Dr. K. S.
Dangi have been recognised at different fora both at the
state and national Levels and he was also awarded
"Lifetime Achievement Award" in 2012.
J kes
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