Aastha Chouhan*, Hulas Pathak, AK Gauraha, Sanjay Dwivedi and SK Joshi

Department of Agribusiness and Rural Management, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (IGKV) Raipur, India

*Corresponding Author: Aastha Chouhan, Department of Agribusiness and Rural Management, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (IGKV) Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India.

Received: June 26, 2024; Published: July 12, 2024

Abstract

Background: The livestock feed market is crucial for dairy productivity, animal health, and agricultural sustainability. This study examines the livestock feed market dynamics in five talukas of Raigad district, Maharashtra, focusing on feed consumption patterns, market trends, and the impact of feed quality on livestock productivity and farmers' livelihoods.

Methods: Using a descriptive research design, data were collected through a structured questionnaire via Google Forms, targeting livestock farmers, sellers, and manufacturers. A random sampling technique ensured diverse representation across Panvel, Pen, Roha, Murud, and Alibaug. The questionnaire covered demographic information, livestock inventory, milk production, feed consumption patterns, feed preferences and quality, economic aspects, supply chain dynamics, and knowledge and regulation awareness. Data analysis included descriptive and inferential statistical methods, such as regression analysis.

Results: The survey revealed significant patterns and correlations in dairy farming practices. Higher education levels, especially among women, correlated with openness to innovative farming techniques, improving milk production and efficiency. Farmers using commercial feed, particularly those with larger herds, reported higher productivity. However, there was a notable disparity in regulatory awareness, with more educated farmers showing better knowledge of regulations and feed types. This gap impacted compliance with industry standards and perceptions of feed affordability.

Conclusion: The study emphasizes the role of education and regulatory awareness in influencing dairy farming practices, highlighting the potential for improved productivity, quality, and sustainability, while also highlighting educational disparities and enhancing industry compliance.

 Keywords: Livestock Feed; Raigad District; Regulatory Awareness; Commercial Feed; Agricultural Sustainability

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Citation

Citation: Aastha Chouhan., et al. “Commercial Feed and Dairy Productivity: A Comparative Analysis in Raigad, Maharashtra". Acta Scientific Veterinary Sciences 6.8 (2024): 09-18.

Copyright

Copyright: © 2024 Aastha Chouhan., et al. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.