Ludhiana: The department of animal nutrition at Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU) recently concluded a specialized five-day hands-on training programme focused on “Nutritional Technologies for Dairy Farmers.“The initiative, held under the directorate of extension education, drew 14 dairy farmers and feed manufacturers from various districts across Punjab to learn scientific methods for improving farm efficiency. During the sessions, director of extension education R S Grewal highlighted a critical economic reality: nutrition accounts for approximately 65 to 70 percent of total dairy farming costs. He emphasized that adopting modern nutritional technologies is the most effective way for farmers to reduce these overheads and boost their overall profitability.The curriculum was designed by course director J S Hundal to provide a balance of theory and practical skill-building. Participants received direct training in manufacturing essential supplements, including mineral mixtures, bypass fat, and uromin licks. They also mastered fodder conservation techniques, such as silage and hay making, to ensure a steady supply of high-quality feed throughout the year.Expert lectures covered the entire lifecycle of dairy cattle, from day-old calves to adult milking animals. Farmers learned how to formulate balanced rations using locally available resources and received specialized instruction on transition feeding. The programme also addressed critical safety issues, specifically the management of aflatoxin contamination in feed and the importance of regular feed testing to maintain animal productivity.The overarching goal of the workshop was to promote sustainable dairy farming in Punjab by replacing traditional, often expensive, feeding habits with precise, scientific practices. By empowering farmers to produce their own high-quality feed and supplements, the university aims to create a more resilient and economically viable agricultural sector in the region.
