Is Small Scale Dairy Farming Dying Out? An In-depth Study

BACKGROUND: Animal husbandry plays an important role in the Indian economy. Small scale milk producers contribute 62% of the total milk produced in the country. However, the lives and livelihoods of small dairy farmers are becoming vulnerable in India. OBJECTIVES: This article tried tried to explore the reasons of decrease in small scale dairy farms. Apart from that this article is also find out what were the challenges faced by small dairy farming families and its influence on animal health. METHODS: A qualitative exploratory study was carried out in the peri-urban area of Hodal, Haryana. Purposive and snowball sampling were employed. Twenty-six in-depth interviews were conducted with current small scale dairy farmers, ex small scale dairy farmers, households, and other stakeholders. Results are presented in the form of core and sub-themes evolved during this process. RESULTS: This study revealed that a small scale dairy farmer is present in peri-urban area, but there is a decrease in small scale dairy farming. The major reason is shrinking fringes, access to cattle provender, the tepid interest of future generation, increased cost of cattle, and cattle health. CONCLUSION: The study recommends that support (in the form of subsidy) should be provided to small scale dairy farmers for accessing land and provender. Awareness about the importance and scope of small scale dairy farming as a stable career opportunity should be spread among the young generation.