Innovative feeding strategies: Evaluating the benefits of silage technology for dairy farmers

Introduction

Agricultural Development Trust's (ADT) was established in 1971 with the aim of dedicated service for Indian farming community. Later on in 1992 Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Baramati was established under ADT. Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Baramati a nationally and internationally recognized farm science center renowned for its innovative contribution to the agriculture. Dairy farming is a crucial income-generating activity in both the rain-fed and irrigated areas of Pune District, Maharashtra. Farmers primarily cultivate maize and sorghum as fodder crops. With 50% of the cattle population comprising crossbred animals, a consistent supply of green fodder is essential for optimal milk production. However, only 5% of the district's total land area is allocated for fodder crops and low annual rain fall (400-450mm), rain fed situation resulting in significant shortages, particularly from March to July in rain fed area of Pune districts. From November to March, farmers can utilize sugarcane tops, a byproduct from local sugar factories. However, relying on sugarcane tops and sugarcane for summer feeding has led to malnutrition and decreased productivity in crossbred animals. This has contributed to repeat breeding problems, forcing farmers to replace their animals every 3-4 years due to poor body condition scores, leading to considerable economic losses. In years with annual rainfall below 400 mm, farmers often have to send their animals to camps due to the lack of green fodder or purchase sugarcane tops from irrigated areas. Recognizing these challenges, KVK Baramati has identified the urgent need for silage technology in Pune District. Implementing silage technology can provide a sustainable and nutritious fodder solution, helping to maintain animal health and productivity throughout the year. This approach will mitigate the negative effects of fodder shortages and enhance the economic viability of dairy farming in the region. Even though, there is need of determination proximate analysis and biochemical test of silage and comparative study the effect of silage feeding to crossbred cows in low as well as high milk yield groups. Hence, present investigation a study was conducted to study these aspects

Materials and Methods

ADT's KVK, Baramati, collected data from rural communities in Pune district through Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) and identified a shortage of forage for animal feeding from March to July (Chambers, R. 1994) [3] . KVK recognized importance of silage technology to address this forage scarcity. In present investigation different type demonstrations of silage preparation from corn crop (i.e. Surface tank method, Pit method and Poly propylene bag method) were planned on selected farmers' fields at five locations. Proximate analysis and biochemical test of this corn silage sample were tested from 5 locations and mean is worked out. Simultaneously, a comparative study of effect of silage feeding to crossbred cows in low as well as high milk yield groups of selected farmers were conducted on following aspects: [Jenchieh et al. (2022), Koch and Lascano, (2018) and Kung (2000)] [4,5,6] . 1. Milk yield liter per day before and after silage feeding 2. Percent of Fat in milk before and after silage feeding Based on the training provided, many farmers adopted silage technology. For the present investigation, KVK conducted an analysis of 10 randomly selected farmers from each of five locations and calculated the mean values (Table No. 1). The analysis revealed that the quality of silage was very good, and the animals responded positively to it; the aroma was pleasant, and the palatability was high. Silage was mixed with dry fodder, which resulted in improved dry fodder intake due to this combination. It was found that due to exact similar milk composition can be achieved during lean period when fodder availability is very low. With this technology farmers can successfully sustain their animal health along with sustainable income throughout the year. 2017) [9] and Thomas et al. (2001) [10] .

In low milk yield crossbred cow groups (Table No. 1) four farmers who has kept the proper record were selected which has total 19 milking Crossbred Cows and data was collected before and after silage feeding. In result it was found that average increase in milk yield by 1.5 lit. per day per cow (Increase in milk yield by 24%) and fat content in milk was increased by 0.3 points. Extra Income per day per animal is Rs. 52.50/-. In the case of high milk yield crossbred cow groups (Table No. 1), five farmers who maintained proper records were selected, totaling 21 milking crossbred cows. Data was collected before and after the introduction of silage feeding. The findings revealed an average increase in milk yield of 2.23 liters per day per cow, representing a 17% increase in overall milk production. Additionally, fat content in the milk increased by 0.3 points, equating to a 6% rise. This improvement resulted in an extra income of Rs. 55.75 per day per animal. [7,2,11,8,1] .

Conclusion

The implementation of silage technology has proven to be a transformative approach for dairy farmers in Pune District, particularly in addressing the challenges of fodder scarcity during lean periods. The findings from this investigation indicate that silage feeding significantly enhances both milk yield and milk quality among crossbred cows.

In low milk yield groups, there was an impressive average increase of 24% in milk production, along with a notable rise in fat content. Similarly, high milk yield groups also benefited from silage, achieving a 17% increase in milk yield and a 6% improvement in fat content. This not only boosts the economic viability of dairy farming but also reduces the need for farmers to replace their animals due to malnutrition, a common issue in rain-fed areas. Furthermore, the proximate analysis and biochemical tests of corn silage demonstrated its high quality and suitability as a nutritious fodder alternative. By enhancing dry fodder intake through the incorporation of silage, farmers can maintain the health and productivity of their animals throughout the year. Overall, the successful adoption of silage technology represents a sustainable solution that can help dairy farmers mitigate the adverse effects of fodder shortages, leading to improved animal welfare, increased income, and greater resilience in dairy production systems. This study underscores the importance of innovative feeding strategies in fostering a more sustainable and profitable dairy farming sector.

Acknowledgement

AcknowledgementWe extend our sincere gratitude to Hon. Rajendra Pawar, Chairman of the Agricultural Development Trust, Baramati, and the Indian Council of Agriculture Research, New Delhi. Your unwavering support and commitment have provided us with invaluable opportunities to address emerging issues in agriculture.

References

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