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Evolution of Dairy Farming


Shift in Dairy Farming

  • Traditional specialized dairy farming is transforming into mixed farming, involving more small, marginal farmers, and landless laborers.
  • Approximately 75% of the country's milk production now comes from mixed farming practices.

Farm Unit Characteristics

  • Dairy units typically range from one to five cows, with some farmers maintaining 10 to 20 cows.
  • Minimal land and capital are needed as it operates as a subsidiary occupation alongside agriculture.
  • Basic equipment is sufficient, and animals are hand-milked, eliminating the need for extensive infrastructure.

Capital and Labor Requirements

  • Lesser capital is required for smaller units with 2 to 5 cows, and existing agriculture labor often tends to the cows, minimizing additional labor costs.
  • Starting such a dairy unit requires less specialized attention.

Question for Starting of a Dairy Farm
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What is the trend in dairy farming, as mentioned in the passage?
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Knowledge and Considerations

  • Farmers should have a basic understanding of dairy farming aspects, including land, buildings, animals, location, equipment, and personnel requirements.
  • Successful location choice is crucial, with an ideal dairy farm situated in a dry, elevated area, away from cities but well-connected by roads.

Land Acquisition and Development

Optimal location selection involves acquiring affordable undeveloped land near forests and implementing cost-effective development methods like well-digging and irrigation.

Cattle Selection

  • Profitable dairying involves purchasing recently calved cows with a minimum yield of 8 kg per day or 2000 kg per lactation.
  • Prefer crossbred cattle like Jersey or Holstein, meeting the desired criteria.

Question for Starting of a Dairy Farm
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What aspects should farmers have a basic understanding of in dairy farming?
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Feed Management

Focus on minimizing feed costs, primarily achieved by cultivating fodder on the farm, preserving fodder as hay or silage, and maintaining cows on fodder alone for lower-yielders.

Farm Infrastructure

  • Keep farm buildings minimal, utilizing local materials for cost-effectiveness.
  • Include essential components like an agricultural division, a dairy complex, and areas for milk handling, storage, and transportation.

Veterinary Support

Proximity to a veterinary clinic is essential for immediate support in case of health issues.

Supervision and Management

A farmhouse for the farm manager ensures continuous supervision and effective management.

Question for Starting of a Dairy Farm
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What is the main focus of feed management on a farm?
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The document Starting of a Dairy Farm | Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science Optional for UPSC is a part of the UPSC Course Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science Optional for UPSC.
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FAQs on Starting of a Dairy Farm - Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science Optional for UPSC

1. How did dairy farming evolve over time?
Ans. Dairy farming has evolved significantly over time. Initially, it was a small-scale activity carried out by individual families to meet their own milk and dairy product needs. However, with advancements in technology and changes in agricultural practices, dairy farming has become a highly commercialized industry. Modern dairy farms now utilize specialized equipment, such as milking machines and automated feeding systems, to improve efficiency and productivity. Additionally, selective breeding techniques have been employed to develop high-yielding dairy cattle breeds. These advancements have led to increased milk production and the availability of a wide range of dairy products in the market.
2. What factors have contributed to the evolution of dairy farming?
Ans. Several factors have contributed to the evolution of dairy farming. One key factor is technological advancements, which have revolutionized dairy farming practices. The introduction of milking machines, automated feeding systems, and cooling technologies has improved efficiency and reduced manual labor. Another factor is the increasing demand for dairy products, which has led to the expansion of dairy farms to meet consumer needs. Changing dietary preferences and the popularity of dairy-based products, such as cheese and yogurt, have also played a role in the growth of dairy farming. Additionally, government policies and subsidies have supported the development and modernization of dairy farms.
3. How has selective breeding impacted dairy farming?
Ans. Selective breeding has had a significant impact on dairy farming. Through selective breeding, farmers have been able to develop high-yielding dairy cattle breeds that produce larger quantities of milk. This has resulted in increased milk production and improved profitability for dairy farmers. Selective breeding has also focused on traits such as disease resistance, heat tolerance, and feed efficiency, which contribute to the overall health and productivity of dairy cattle. By selectively breeding animals with desirable traits, farmers have been able to improve the genetic potential of their herds, leading to more efficient and productive dairy farming systems.
4. What are the challenges faced by dairy farmers in modern times?
Ans. Dairy farmers in modern times face several challenges. One major challenge is the fluctuating prices of milk and dairy products, which can affect the profitability of dairy farms. Additionally, the rising costs of inputs such as feed, labor, and equipment pose financial challenges for farmers. Disease outbreaks, such as mastitis, can also impact the health and productivity of dairy cattle, leading to economic losses. Moreover, environmental concerns related to waste management and greenhouse gas emissions from dairy farms have become important issues that farmers need to address. Lastly, competition from large-scale dairy operations and the need to meet stringent quality and safety standards can pose challenges for small and medium-sized dairy farms.
5. How has the role of dairy farmers changed in recent years?
Ans. The role of dairy farmers has changed significantly in recent years. Traditionally, dairy farmers were primarily responsible for milking cows and managing their herd's health and nutrition. However, with the advent of technology and modern farming practices, dairy farmers now take on a more diverse set of responsibilities. They need to stay updated with the latest advancements in dairy farming technology, manage the use of automated systems and equipment, and analyze data to optimize herd management and milk production. Additionally, farmers may need to market their products directly to consumers or participate in cooperative dairy organizations. Overall, dairy farmers now require a broader skill set and knowledge base to effectively manage their farms in the modern era.
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