Input Delivery System of Feed in Jammu and Kashmir: Status, Issues and Policy Implications for Sustainable Livestock Development Wani S. A., Shaheen F. A., Saraf S. A., Baba S. H. Division of Agricultural Economics and Marketing, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Shalimar Campus, Srinagar – 191 121, Jammu & Kashmir Online published on 9 October, 2012. Abstract Though feed and fodder is one of the most important contributing factors to the growth of livestock sector, its development has not received adequate focus in the state. Pragmatic planning and formulation of schemes for sustainable livestock development cannot be achieved without estimating the feed budget of the state. The present study is focused on the fodder inventory of the state, fodder demand-supply budget and research agenda for formulating strategies for development of sustainable fodder-livestock scenario in the state. The demand-supply scenario of the fodder has revealed that the state is 40 per cent deficit in fodder on dry matter basis and the deficiency is more pronounced in green fodder and concentrates. The severity of fodder deficit is more chronic in Ladakh region, followed by Kashmir and least in Jammu region. Strategies need to be framed for improving the productivity of pastures, grazing and other support lands. Institutional mechanisms have to be developed for adoption of optimal system of rotational and deferred grazing and intermittent grazing of cattle/buffalo and sheep/goats. Formulation and implementation of strategy for development of support lands (common property resources) need greater collaboration among forest, agriculture, animal and sheep husbandry, revenue departments and local bodies. The departments of animal/sheep husbandry being the key player, may be given lead role for fodder development programmes. Top Keywords Feed and fodder budgeting, sustainable livestock development, Jammu and Kashmir. Top |