Transformative impact of KVK Baramati's collaborative interventions in the dissemination of silage production technology

Introduction

Since, 1974 Krishi Vigyan Kendra's are playing important role in dissemination of advance innovative technologies to the framing communities within stipulated time. In this context different modes of extension methodologies were utilized for dissemination of technologies. Agricultural Development Trust's (ADT) was established in 1971 with the aim of dedicated service for Indian farming community. ADT, Baramati is one of the leading agricultural research and development organizations. It serves as parent body of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Baramati a nationally and internationally recognized farm science center renowned for its innovative contribution to the agriculture. Agricultural Development Trust's (ADT) Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Baramati has worked in collaborative way with Public & Private sector for dissemination of silage technology among the farming community in Pune district. Collaboration involves a process where individuals or groups with varying perspectives on an issue can constructively engage with one another to uncover solutions that extend beyond their individual viewpoints. This collaborative effort allows different people and organizations to assist one another by utilizing and merging their unique strengths and capabilities effectively (Gray, 1989, Lasker, Weiss, & Miller, 2001) [7,8] . As per as importance of silage technology is concerned Dairy enterprise is a major income generating activity in the rainfed and irrigated area of the Pune District in Maharashtra. Maize and sorghum is a major fodder crops grown by the dairy farmers. Out of total population of cattle in the Pune District 50% population is crossbred animals, for maximum milk production crossbred animals require green fodder throughout the year. Area under fodder crops is 5% of total area of the District. Green fodder is not available throughout the year. Sugarcane tops are also available from November to March in the area due to Sugar factories. There is shortage of green fodder during March to July for animals. Livestock farming is secondary source of income for medium, small and marginal farmers. Due fodder shortage in summer's season farmers from rain fed area before 2011 -12 are using sugarcane tops and Sugarcane for feeding to cross bred animal which leading to mal nutrition, low productivity, repeat breeding problems and dairy farmers has to replace their animals after 3-4 years because low Body condition score of crossbred cows leading to economic loss to dairy farmers. If annual rain fall is less than 400 mm then farmers has to send their animal to Animal camps as green fodder is not available for feeding to animals or they have to purchase sugarcane tops, Sugarcane from irrigated area. Benefits of Silage Making are described below as: 1. Reduces Cost and Labor Time: Silage making significantly lowers the time and labor required to transport fodder from the field to the cattle shed. Instead of making multiple trips to gather fresh fodder, farmers can prepare and store silage in advance, which streamlines feeding routines and allows for more efficient use of labor resources. 2. Year-Round Availability of Green Fodder: One of the key benefits of silage is that it allows for the preservation of green fodder, making it available throughout the year. This is especially important during periods of drought or offseason when fresh fodder is scarce. With silage, farmers can ensure their livestock have consistent access to nutritious feed, improving overall animal health.

Increase in Milk Production and Fat Percentage:

Studies have shown that silage can lead to a 22% increase in milk production and a 6% increase in fat percentage. This boost is attributed to the enhanced nutritional quality of silage compared to traditional fodder, which supports better lactation performance in dairy cows. Higher milk yields can significantly improve farmers' income and contribute to economic stability. 4. Increase in Dry Matter Intake: Silage generally has a higher concentration of nutrients and dry matter compared to fresh fodder. This allows livestock to consume more nutrients in a smaller volume of feed, leading to improved digestion and overall health. Increased dry matter intake supports better growth rates and reproductive performance in cattle, contributing to the sustainability and productivity of dairy operations.

Overall, silage making offers a range of benefits that enhance both the efficiency of farming operations and the health and productivity of livestock Bilal et al. (2021) [3] . Hence, ADT's KVK, Baramati has identified the 'Silage technology' is solution for this burning issue and simultaneously worked with different agencies & institute for popularization of this technology. Present investigation deals study of impact of collaborative work done by different agencies in dissemination of silage technology.

Materials and Methodology Technological Interventions by KVK, Baramati

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) [4] . KVK recognized that using silage technology for preparation and storage of silage could help to address this forage scarcity. To empower the farming community in India, ADT's KVK Baramati organizes the Krushik-Live Demo Agricultural Expo annually at the KVK instructional farm, where advanced innovative technologies are showcased through live demonstrations. The Krushik Exhibition has supported farmer empowerment initiatives such as Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and start-ups, promoting collective farming models that lead to improved income opportunities and resource sharing (Dheeraj Shinde et al., 2024) [5] . A total of 54 demonstrations were conducted during the Krushik event and in the field, benefiting 4,66,718 farmers across India ( [1] , and Asian Development Bank. (2021)] [10,11,6,9,1,2] . In conclusion, the success of silage making technology in Pune District underscores the importance of collaboration between various stakeholders in agricultural extension. Continued efforts in this direction will be essential for enhancing the productivity and sustainability of dairy farming in the region, ultimately contributing to the economic well-being of farmers and the agricultural community as a whole.

Conclusion

Acknowledgement

AcknowledgementWe would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the following individuals and organizations whose support and collaboration have been invaluable in the success of our initiatives: a. Hon. Rajendra Pawar, Chairman of the Agricultural Development Trust, Baramati, for his visionary leadership

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