A study to assess the viability of commercial dairy farming was conducted in Haryana state during the year 2009–2010. The sample dairy farms were categorized on the basis of milch herds. Proportion of investment on milch animals was found highest in large commercial dairy farms whereas proportion of investment on sheds and machinery was maximum in small commercial dairy farms. The net cost of milk production per litre for milking crossbred cattle on small, medium and large farms was estimated to be `10.68, `10.21 and `9.49 whereas for milch cow `10.89, `10.62 and `9.99 respectively. The net cost of milk production per litre for milking buffalo on small, medium and large farms was estimated to be `15.50, `15.01, and `14.96 whereas for milch buffalo `16.19, `15.62 and `15.73 respectively. Viability of large dairy farms was highest based on the investment pattern and estimates of cost and returns of milk production in comparison of medium and small commercial dairy farms.
Farm income, Net cost, Technical feasibility
