Data Sheet 1_Estimation of supply–demand gaps in feed and fodder- a pan India policy analysis.docx

This research article offers a forward-looking analysis of the present availability and demand for livestock feed and fodder in selected states and across India. A problem prevalent in livestock management is the non-availability of feed and fodder. Previous research on identifying supply and demand gaps in different regions has been limited. This study systematically analyzed feed and fodder availability at both the national and regional levels and major constraints faced by sample households in livestock rearing and fodder cultivation. Direct estimation of feed and fodder is often unavailable, so conversion factors recommended by organizations like the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the National Agriculture Technology Project (NATP), and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) were utilized, besides the primary data collected for the study. Considering the feeding patterns, the analysis revealed a significant deficit in green fodder (31,367 million tons), while there was an excess of 2,145 million tons in dry fodder and 966 million tons in concentrates. Looking ahead to 2030, the projections indicated a deficit of 33,563 million tons in green fodder, an excess/surplus of 2,295 million tons in dry fodder and 1,034 million tons in concentrateThe feed and fodder production s. To address this imbalance, the study suggests that farmers should adopt stall-feeding practices for their livestock due to the shrinking forest and grazing lands. This approach would enable optimal feeding and help mitigate the feed and fodder shortage issue.