Karnal: While North India continues to reel under an intense heat wave, humans aren't the only ones affected. The rising mercury has even started to affect milch cattle, hampering dairy production.
According to scientists at the National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), Karnal, milk production has taken a hit with a 20-30 per cent reduction in yield.
Dr S. S. Lathwal, Principal Scientist, Livestock Production & Management section at NDRI told News 18 that the heat wave has equally affected livestock.
“Livestock is under duress due to the heat wave. Farmers should be prepared beforehand as the milk production has fallen by 20 to 30 per cent every year. At our own farm, the milk yield has fallen by around 200 litres despite making prior arrangements like installing sprinklers and fans for the cattle”.
Dr. Lathwal advised farmers to focus on green fodder and procure it beforehand.
“When cross-bred Holstein Friesian cows come under stress, production can fall by even 40 percent. In case of buffaloes, they need to be provided a shower twice or thrice a day or allowed to stay in ponds or other water bodies for at least 5 to 6 hours”, he added.
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