Washim: The drought-like situation caused by deficient rainfall across Vidarbha has severely affected dairy farmers, with fodder and water shortages putting livestock businesses under increasing financial pressure. In Washim district, a dairy farmer is considering selling nearly 50 buffaloes due to the acute shortage of fodder and water.Sharad More, a farmer from Shendurjana (More) village in Mangrulpir taluka, started a dairy business as a supplementary occupation to agriculture, with the additional objective of providing employment opportunities to unemployed villagers. However, the severe fodder shortage this year has pushed his dairy enterprise into crisis.“I have approached the animal husbandry department seeking assistance to overcome the crisis. However, if the govt does not intervene, this dairy business, which supports the livelihoods of five to six families, may be forced to shut down permanently,” More said.More, who holds MA and BEd degrees, soon realised that uncertainties of nature made farming increasingly difficult to sustain. So, More decided to diversify into dairy farming.Three years ago, More started the dairy business, which gradually expanded. He now owns 52 buffaloes, producing more than 200 litres of milk every day.However, inadequate rainfall during the current kharif season has resulted in a severe fodder shortage. The failure of the rabi jowar crop to meet expectations has further pushed up fodder prices. Adding to the crisis, the well on the farm has dried up.Each buffalo requires around 60 to 70 litres of water and 5-6 kg of cottonseed cake every day. Meeting these requirements has become increasingly difficult for More. Each buffalo is currently valued at around Rs1.25 lakh to Rs1.5 lakh.
