Availability and requirement of feed and fodder in different districts of Karnataka

Abstract

Agriculture and livestock sectors are crucial for economic and social equity in rural areas. Livestock sector growth and fodder availability are directly related. Enhancing profitability of livestock husbandry can only be possible by ensuring adequate fodder to the livestock. A study was therefore conducted to know the feed and fodder availability and requirement at various districts of Karnataka. Secondary data of land use classification, crop production (2015 to 2019) and livestock census were used to derive dry matter (DM) availability and requirement for each district. Primary data was collected to understand the village level situation. Results indicated that state has an average of only 68.61±54.41% dry matter availability. Out of 30 districts, six districts belonged to surplus (>100%) and 12 districts belonged to severely deficient DM category with the DM availability of less than 40%. Crop residues contributed highest (69.01%) to the total DM. Contribution of total greens from all sources was found to be more in severely deficient districts. Bagalkot district had highest and Bengaluru urban had lowest DM availability. These findings are pivotal for developing fodder plan for Karnataka.

Keywords

• Availability, Crop residues, Dry matter, Livestock, Requirement