Feeding management practices followed by dairy farmers of Kandi area of Punjab

A field survey was undertaken to record the prevailing feeding management methods employed by dairy farmers in the Kandi region of Hoshiarpur district in Punjab. The study encompassed on 80 farmers from various villages. Structured interviews, utilizing a pre-tested questionnaire, were conducted to gather information about the existing feeding practices. The data were recorded through direct interaction with the farmers and first hand observations. The study revealed there was a limited supply of both green and dry fodder available in the area. As a result, farmers relied on acquiring both dry and green fodder through purchases, considering the limited availability of land at their disposal. Concentrate feed was primarily given to lactating animals but in restricted amounts. Concentrate was often prepared at home consisting of majorly wheat grains as primary energy source and mustard and cotton seed cake as protein, fat and fibre sources. Knowledge about fodder preservation methods like silage and hay-making was lacking. Similarly, the recognition and implementation of providing concentrate mixtures during late lactation/transition period were also missing. The importance of feeding mineral mixture and vitamins were also limited. Consequently, the dairy farmers in the region were deficient in scientific knowledge concerning dairy management, leading to compromised production and reproductive performance outcomes. Therefore, there is a need to conduct various trainings to educate the dairy farmers of the area for obtaining better performances and returns.