The Buffalo Calf Development Program, part of the Tamil Nadu Innovation Initiative, aims to increase the buffalo population and high-fat milk production. Funded with Rs. 8.2 crore, it provides Rs. 41,000 in support per beneficiary. Aavin has adopted 2,000 buffalo calves from 12 districts, supplying resources like dark fodder, mineral salt mix, and disease care. High-protein feed is given to calves, and veterinary doctors monitor their health weekly. The program supports rural start-up dairy producers, ensuring small-scale farmers benefit. Its goal is to boost economic stability for farmers and increase the region’s high-fat milk supply.
The Buffalo Calf Development Program (Buffalo Calf Search Scheme) is a pivotal initiative under the Tamil Nadu Innovation Initiative, inspired by recommendations from the State Planning Committee. Launched to address the declining buffalo population and boost high-fat milk production, the program is crucial for supporting dairy farmers in Tamil Nadu.
Background
In 2007, Tamil Nadu had a buffalo population of 11.8 lakhs. However, by 2019, this number had sharply declined to 5.19 lakhs. This reduction has impacted milk production and the livelihoods of dairy farmers. In contrast, states like Punjab and Gujarat have seen an increase in buffalo numbers and milk production. Recognizing the need for intervention, the Tamil Nadu government, in collaboration with Aavin, initiated the Buffalo Calf Development Program to reverse this trend.
Program Overview
The Buffalo Calf Development Program is funded with Rs. 8.2 crore, aiming to provide comprehensive support to buffalo farmers. Each beneficiary under this scheme receives aid worth Rs. 41,000. Aavin, a leading dairy cooperative, has adopted 2,000 buffalo calves from dairy farmers across 12 districts, including Namakal, Salem, Eroodu, Retur, and Karur. This adoption is part of a broader strategy to enhance high-fat milk production and improve the economic stability of dairy farmers.
Key Components of the Program
1. Resource Provision:
Farmers receive essential resources for buffalo farming, including dark fodder, mineral salt mix, and disease care. This ensures that the buffaloes have a balanced diet and are healthy, which is crucial for high milk production.
2. Feed Distribution:
High-protein feed (85% protein content) is provided to buffalo calves. The distribution of feed is age-specific:
– 1 kg per day for calves aged 6 to 10 months.
– 1.5 kg per day for calves aged 11 to 25 months.
– 1.75 kg per day for calves aged 26 to 32 months.
3. Veterinary Support:
Veterinary doctors appointed by Aavin and the Veterinary Care Department regularly monitor the weight and health of the calves. Weekly check-ups ensure that the calves are growing healthily and any health issues are promptly addressed.
4.Selective Breeding:
Six-month-old female buffalo calves are selected for the program. They receive enhanced nutrition and care to increase their weight and milk production capacity over time.
Impact and Goals
The primary goal of the Buffalo Calf Development Program is to increase the buffalo population and high-fat milk production in Tamil Nadu. Currently, Aavin receives only 10,000 litres of buffalo milk out of the 30.5 lakh litres of milk produced. By supporting farmers and providing the necessary resources, the program aims to significantly boost this number.
Cooperative Support
Rural-scale start-up dairy producers who cannot afford the cost of developing buffaloes are provided with cooperative support. This collaboration ensures that even small-scale farmers benefit from the program, promoting inclusive growth in the dairy sector.
Statement from Aavin
Dr S. Vineeth, Managing Director of Aavin, highlighted the importance of the program, stating, “The number of buffaloes continues to decline. This scheme aims to reverse that trend. Farmers interested in buffalo farming can benefit from this program, receiving necessary resources like dark fodder, mineral salt mix, and disease care. Only farmers who supply milk to Aavin are eligible for this support, making buffalo milk production more profitable and sustainable.”
The Buffalo Calf Development Program represents a significant step toward revitalizing the dairy industry in Tamil Nadu. By providing financial aid and essential resources to farmers, the program not only aims to increase the buffalo population but also ensures the production of high-fat milk. This initiative is set to benefit both farmers and consumers, contributing to the economic growth of the region.
