Article:
Introduction to Sustainable Livestock Farming
Sustainable livestock farming, a widely discussed topic in recent days, has become increasingly significant due to the diverse challenges it faces. One of the most severe threats it faces is Thermal Stress, primarily in regions like Kerala, where over 95% of cattle are crossbreeds and inherently possess lower thermal tolerance. The Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (KVASU) has initiated a project to select and breed cattle capable of coping with Thermal Stress in the face of climate change.
Understanding Thermal Stress and its Effects on Livestock
Thermal stress refers to the physiological and metabolic response of animals to temperature exceeding their comfort zone. It occurs when the animal’s body struggles to maintain its normal internal temperature, leading to several negative health consequences and reduced productivity. High ambient temperature, humidity, solar radiation, and inadequate ventilation or cooling mechanisms commonly cause Thermal Stress. Its effects can result in severe economic and animal welfare issues in the livestock farming sector.
The Impact of Thermal Stress: Reduced Productivity and Health Issues
Elevated thermal stress levels carry serious implications such as a decline in milk production, decreased feed intake, and weight loss in livestock, which can result in lower productivity and income for farmers. Additionally, various health issues like respiratory distress, heat stroke, dehydration, decreased immunity, and a shorter lifespan can arise, leading to higher susceptibility to diseases.
Economic and Environmental Consequences of Thermal Stress
Farmers often face significant financial losses due to livestock mortality and health complications caused by thermal stress. Moreover, they sometimes need to invest in cooling mechanisms, such as fans or sprinklers, adding to their costs. In a bid to alleviate the effects of thermal stress, farmers may also resort to unsustainable practices like excessive water usage for cooling, negatively affecting the environment.
Preventing Livestock from Heat Stress
Several methods can mitigate the effects of heat stress on livestock. Breeding management, incorporating a robust heat detection program, is critical to identify animals with marginal heat symptoms. Artificial insemination is preferred to natural breeding as both bulls and cows can suffer infertility due to summer stress. Cooling systems using fans and water sprinkling can be beneficial, provided they don’t result in overly wet bedding and disease-prone environments. Feeding high-quality forages and balanced rations can counteract some effects of thermal stress and help improve animal performance. Genetic selection for heat tolerance can also help alleviate heat stress.
The Condition of the Livestock Sector in India
The Indian livestock sector has grown at an impressive CAGR of 7.9% during 2014-15 to 2020-21, and its contribution to total agricultural GVA has increased from 24.3% to 30.1%. The dairy sector is the single-largest agri-commodity in India, contributing 5% to the national economy and employing 80 million dairy farmers directly.
Initiatives Related to the Livestock Sector in India
Several initiatives have been launched in India, including the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF), National Animal Disease Control Programme, National Artificial Insemination Programme, and the National Livestock Mission. These are aimed at promoting sustainable livestock farming and improving the sector’s productivity and profitability.
The Way Forward
Promoting sustainable livestock farming needs a multi-faceted approach that includes adequate animal welfare practices, implementing sustainable production methods, reducing waste and emissions, and fostering local and regional markets. Providing education and training programs to farmers is also pivotal to achieve these goals.
Relevant Questions from UPSC Civil Services Examination
Here are some relevant questions asked in the UPSC Civil Services Examination about livestock farming.
Prelims Q. Consider the following statements: (2019) Agricultural soils release nitrogen oxides into the environment. Cattle release ammonia into the environment. The poultry industry releases reactive nitrogen compounds into the environment. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? Ans: (d)
Mains Q. Livestock rearing has a big potential for providing non-farm employment and income in rural areas. Discuss suggesting suitable measures to promote this sector in India. (2015).
