April 10, 2023

Indian dairy farmers concerned over rising cattle fodder prices

Indian farmers and dairy owners are concerned about the possibility of increased prices for cattle fodder, due to shortages caused by last year's lumpy skin disease (LSD) outbreak among cattle and widespread damage to wheat crops this year, Krishi Jagran reported.

A hike in fodder prices could lead to an increase in prices for milk and related products, which could adversely affect poor and marginal farmers who rely on cattle for their sustenance. In rural communities throughout Doaba and other parts of the state, these farmers and laborers make up a significant portion of the population.

Dheeraj Bajaj, the general secretary of the Govind Gau Dhaam Gaushala, which has over 1,000 cattle, the LSD outbreak and expected fodder shortage have made dairy production unsustainable for many farmers.

Bajaj said that the current levels of fodder prices have made it too expensive for these farmers to raise cattle, leading many to shut down their dairy operations.

The budget for fodder was INR 2.1 million (~US$25,600) last year, but it has already risen to INR 3.1 million (~US$37,800) this year. The cost of a trolley of fodder is expected to double to INR 10,000 (~US$122), compared to the usual rates of INR 5,000 to INR 6,000 (~US$61 to US$73).

-      Krishi Jagran