Fodder Crisis Threatens Chikkaballapur Dairy Sector

A growing fodder shortage is putting Chikkaballapur’s dairy sector under pressure, raising concerns for dairy farmers in one of Karnataka’s important milk-producing regions. The issue is particularly significant because dairying is a major livelihood activity in the district, where inadequate rainfall and recurring water stress make livestock farming an important alternative to crop cultivation. Historical research on the region has also identified lack of feed and fodder, high production costs and year-round shortage of green fodder as major constraints for dairy farmers.

The fodder challenge has a direct impact on milk production and the economics of dairy farming. When green and dry fodder become scarce or expensive, farmers face higher feeding costs, which can reduce margins and ultimately affect the quantity of milk supplied to dairy cooperatives. Earlier studies in Kolar and Chikkaballapur found that drought-related shortages of feed, fodder and drinking water had contributed to lower milk production and livestock sales.

The situation also highlights the need for more sustainable local fodder production. Research conducted specifically in Chikkaballapur has shown that cultivating Sesbania grandiflora, a perennial fodder tree, can help address green-fodder shortages; farmers in the study supplemented cows with 5 kg of Sesbania forage per day, resulting in an 11.97% increase in milk yield. The study found that 100–200 trees could be cultivated on 1–2 guntas of fallow land, although lack of assured irrigation and electricity remained major constraints.

For the region’s dairy ecosystem, the current fodder pressure goes beyond the farm gate. Reduced feed availability can affect animal productivity, milk procurement, farmer profitability and the utilisation of dairy-processing infrastructure, making reliable fodder availability an important part of maintaining a stable milk supply chain. The challenge reinforces the need for better fodder planning, drought-resilient feed resources and stronger support systems for dairy farmers. (ResearchGate)

Source: Dairynews7x7 2 Aug, 2026 Read full article here

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