International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Ashish B Mahera and RS Pundir

abstract
Dairy farming is an important source of income for rural households in India. However, farmers deal with ongoing challenges in feeding and breeding management that limit productivity and profitability. This study was conducted in Middle Gujarat and involved 320 dairy farmers. Henry Garrett's ranking technique was used to identify and prioritize the reported problems. The findings showed that in feeding management, high feed costs were the biggest challenge, followed by insufficient knowledge about balanced rations and seasonal shortages of green fodder. Farmers had limited awareness of urea-treated straw and silage preparation, and the lack of fodder seeds further hindered their feeding practices. In terms of breeding management, the low genetic potential of local animals was the biggest concern. Other issues included poor conception rates in artificial insemination, repeat breeding, and inadequate access to timely AI services. To improve dairy productivity and profitability, it is crucial to enhance farmers' understanding of scientific feeding and breeding practices. Access to quality inputs and services also needs to be improved.