Washim Dairy Farmers Face Crisis Amid Fodder Shortage
Drought conditions in Vidarbha lead to severe fodder and water shortages for dairy farmers in Washim.
Dairy farmers in Washim are struggling due to a lack of fodder and water.
One farmer is considering selling 50 buffaloes to cope with the crisis.
The local animal husbandry department has been approached for assistance.
In Washim district, dairy farmers are grappling with a significant crisis as drought-like conditions have led to a severe shortage of fodder and water. The situation has placed immense financial strain on livestock businesses, prompting some farmers to consider drastic measures. One such farmer, Sharad More from Shendurjana (More) village, is contemplating the sale of nearly 50 buffaloes due to these shortages.
Sharad More, who initially ventured into dairy farming as a supplementary income to agriculture, aimed to create job opportunities for unemployed villagers. However, the current fodder crisis has jeopardized his dairy operation, which supports the livelihoods of multiple families. "I have approached the animal husbandry department seeking assistance to overcome the crisis. However, if the government does not intervene, this dairy business may be forced to shut down permanently," More stated.
Having started his dairy business three years ago, More expanded his herd to 52 buffaloes, producing over 200 liters of milk daily. Unfortunately, this year’s inadequate rainfall during the kharif season has led to a critical shortage of fodder. The failure of the rabi jowar crop has exacerbated the situation, driving fodder prices higher. Additionally, the well on his farm has dried up, further complicating the crisis.
Each buffalo requires approximately 60 to 70 liters of water and 5-6 kg of cottonseed cake daily. As these requirements become increasingly difficult to meet, More faces the possibility of losing his investment. Currently, each buffalo is valued between Rs1.25 lakh and Rs1.5 lakh, making the decision to sell them a significant loss.
The ongoing drought conditions not only threaten the livelihoods of farmers like More but also pose a broader risk to the dairy industry in the region. With the situation worsening, immediate government intervention is crucial to prevent further losses and support affected farmers in Washim and beyond.
