Maharashtra Allocates 5% of District Funds for Fodder Solutions

The Maharashtra government has announced a significant initiative to allocate at least 5% of its District Annual Plan funds specifically for the production and conservation of fodder. This decision comes as the state grapples with drought-like conditions that threaten agricultural sustainability. Animal Husbandry Minister Pankaja Munde emphasized that the comprehensive action plan will include the establishment of fodder banks, the promotion of alternative farming methods, and the introduction of a digital monitoring system for cattle camps.

This initiative follows the recommendations of a study group formed under the Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue Department. These recommendations received approval from a Cabinet sub-committee led by Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on October 27, with an official Government Resolution issued on October 30. The plan aims to ensure that fodder seeds are supplied through Mahabeej and other agencies in preparation for the Rabi season, while also encouraging the cultivation of drought-resistant crops such as maize, jowar, and bajra.

Under the new plan, district-level fodder banks will be created in collaboration with Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), private companies, and NGOs. The government has set maximum support prices of ₹12 per kg for dry fodder and ₹8 per kg for silage, excluding transportation costs. Additionally, alternative fodder sources, including hydroponics and Azolla cultivation, will be promoted to diversify fodder availability. A 'Fodder Literacy Campaign' will also be launched to educate livestock owners on effective fodder storage and conservation techniques.

To manage shortages effectively, the use of fodder for non-feed purposes, such as packaging and biofuel production, will be prohibited. District Collectors will be responsible for overseeing transportation restrictions to neighboring states, while arrangements for inter-district supplies will be made as needed. The state will implement an online 'Fodder Camp Monitoring and Management System' to track livestock registration, attendance, fodder distribution, and veterinary services, ensuring transparency and efficiency in operations.

Looking ahead, district-level committees led by Guardian Ministers will oversee the planning of cattle camps, while local assessments of fodder and water availability will be conducted by District Collectors prior to camp approvals. The involvement of sugar factories, dairy cooperatives, and voluntary organizations in fodder management is also anticipated, with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds being sought for camp facilities. Minister Munde reiterated the government's commitment to increasing fodder production and conserving existing resources, urging for coordinated efforts across various departments to address the ongoing challenges.