The Directorate of Extension Education, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana organised training on Quality Fodder Production, Processing and Marketing for the officials of the Dairy Development Department. Dr. Parkash Singh Brar, Director of Extension Education, said that the University and State Dairy Development Department need to
work in convergence for the welfare of dairy farmers. He added that such training helps the field functionaries to stay abreast with the recent technologies developed by research institutions while providing the researchers an opportunity to understand new challenges faced by the farming community.
S. Kashmir Singh, Joint Director, Dairy Development Department said that quality fodder is the foundation for the growth of the dairy sector in Punjab. He said that the field functionaries of the department work in close association with dairy farmers in a variety of roles. As such they must equip themselves with the knowledge of latest technologies being developed by the university and help in their transfer to the end users. Dr. Harinder Singh, Fodder Research Specialist, shared his experience of processing fodders to hay and its use in livestock production. He gave a detailed account of selection of crops and their varieties along with harvesting and drying during preparation of hay. Dr. Navjot Singh Brar, talked on the Package of Practices recommended for the production of fodder crops. He elaborated on the methods of cultivation, irrigation, fertilization and plant protection measures for fodder crops. Dr. Parminder Singh underlined the importance of silage in milk production. He explained the improved techniques applicable for production of good quality silage. He said that anti-quality factors in silage are a major concern and farmers must be made aware about the ways to rectify common mistakes in silage making. Dr J S Lamba focused on alternate fodders for dairy animals. He explained the methods for improvement of the nutritious value of low-quality fodders for feeding milk animals. A visit to the fodder and silage area of the University's Dairy farm was also arranged
