Strategic Supplementation of Deficient Nutrients - An Indian Perspective
Grassland type Cultivated, Natural
Name of practice Strategic Supplementation of Deficient Nutrients - An Indian Perspective
Name of main actor College of Veterinary Science, SVVU, Tirupati
Type of actor(s) Farmers, Private sector
Location India
Agro-ecological region Tropical
Sustainability dimension involved Economic
Sustainability sub-themes Animal Welfare
Year of implementation 2010
Description of best practice Livestock rearing in India is largely traditional and feeding patterns reflect the socio-economic conditions of farmers. In general, livestock is maintained through grazing without access to mineral supplements. The availability of adequate feed and fodder is influenced by season, topography and land holdings of farmers. In the tropics a large number of livestock suffer from mineral deficiencies or imbalances. Two field studies illustrate the potential of strategic supplementation of deficient nutrients to improve animal productivity and reproductive efficiency under semi-intensive management systems in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh State, India. However, several barriers to implementation/up-scaling of the practice remain. Farmers may not be aware of the probable deficiencies and the impact that on animal health and productivity. Economic constraints are a barrier, particularly for small-scale farmers. Investment and support from government or NGOs may be required to establish the practice on a long-term basis.
Outcomes and impacts • In the first study, crossbred cattle with reproductive disorders (anestrous cows, repeat breeding cows and anestrous heifers) and mineral deficiencies (Ca, P, Cu, Zn and Mn) were treated with an area specific mineral mixture (ASMM) for 90 days. Significant improvements were observed in the mineral status and hormonal profile of animals. Reproductive efficiency was improved by 50-67%. For further details see the summary “Effect of supplementation of area specific mineral mixture on reproductive performance of crossbred cattle”. The full scientific article is published in the Indian Journal of Animal Nutrition. 2010. 27(3): 265-270. • In the second study, crossbred cows were found to suffer from severe protein deficiencies under existing feeding patterns. Strategic supplementation of protein during early lactation resulted in a substantial improvement (34.9%) in milk yield and marginal improvements in milk components. For further details see the summary “Strategic supplementation of deficient nutrients”.
