Sri Vijaya Puram, May 15: As part of Disaster Management preparedness, livestock owners and public bodies have an important role to play in ensuring animal welfare. The major impact of disasters on livestock is the acute shortage of fodder, which severely affects animal health, milk production, and the livelihood of farmers. To mitigate the impact of such calamities, the Department recommends the following important measures:
Cultivation of Fodder Crops: Livestock owners are encouraged to grow high-yielding fodder crops such as Hybrid Napier, Guinea grass, Maize, Sorghum, Cowpea and other locally suitable varieties on available land, field bunds, pond embankments and community areas.
Conservation & Storage of Fodder: Farmers should conserve surplus green fodder in the form of hay and silage. Crop residues like paddy straw and maize stover should be properly stored for emergency use.
Establishment of Fodder Banks: Village-level fodder banks may be created for storage of dry fodder, concentrate feed and mineral mixtures to meet emergency requirements.
Alternative Fodder Sources: Large-scale cultivation of Azolla, hydroponic green fodder and use of tree fodder and locally available feed resources should be promoted.
Efficient Use of Feed: Priority feeding should be given to pregnant, lactating and young animals. Supplementation with mineral mixture and salt is strongly advised.
Safe Storage: Fodder and feed should be stored at elevated and protected places to prevent damage from rain, flood and seawater intrusion.
Drinking Water Preparedness: Adequate clean drinking water should be stored in advance during disaster warnings.
Community Participation: Panchayats, cooperatives, SHGs and local institutions should work together for fodder production, conservation and distribution during emergencies.
All livestock owners are requested to take advance precautionary measures and maintain sufficient fodder reserves to protect the health and productivity of their animals during natural calamities. Livestock owners may contact the nearest Veterinary institution for any guidance and technical support.