Existing Livestock Feeding Practices in Jhansi District of Bundelkhand

摘要

The study was conducted in Jhansi district of Bundelkhand Uttar Pradesh in order to study the existing patterns of seasonal livestock (large ruminant) feeding. Stratified proportionate random sampling plan was followed. There were 8 strata (one village from each stratum) in Jhansi district and from each category a proportionate random sample of respondents was selected, for making the sample size of 25 farmers from each village. Regarding existing feeding practices (per animal per day), it could be concluded that almost all categories of farmers were giving sufficient DM and TDN as per the productivity level of cows but the DCP intake was less specially among landless and marginal farmers in summer season mainly due to dry fodder based feeding. In rainy and winter season the lactating cows were getting sufficient ration as per their requirement. Feeding salt and mineral mixture was not a common practice. In case of lactating buffaloes in summer season, there was deficit of DM and TDN in case of landless, marginal and small farmers. The DCP fed was less than requirement in all categories, severity being more in case of landless and marginal farmers. In rainy season, the situation slightly improved but landless, marginal and small farmers were stillfeeding less than the requirement. The fodder crops were not popular thus seasonal grasses and weeds were the main sources of green fodder. The feeding of the animals at dry stage was neglected. There was more dependence on grazing. The amount of concentrate and green fodder offered was considerably less than milch animals. Proteins supplied in diets were less than the requirement for all categories of farmers in all season. In summer, and rainy the DM and TDN supplied by landless and marginal farmersand in winter season by landless farmers were less than requirement.