AN ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF CATTLE AND FODDER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES IN KARNATAKA - A STUDY ON BANGALORE SOUTH DISTRICT

The livestock sector plays a significant role in promoting rural livelihoods, employment generation, and agricultural sustainability in India. Karnataka, with its rich livestock resources and extensive dairy cooperative network, has implemented several cattle and fodder development programmes to enhance milk production and improve the socio-economic conditions of farmers. This study examines the economic impact of these programmes with special reference to Bangalore South District. The research aims to analyze the status of cattle farming, evaluate the effectiveness of cattle and fodder development initiatives, assess the role of dairy cooperative societies in milk marketing, and identify the challenges faced by cattle farmers. The study is based on both primary and secondary data. secondary data were obtained from government reports, the Department of Animal Husbandry, Karnataka Milk Federation, and published literature. Descriptive statistical techniques were employed to analyze the data. The findings reveal that cattle farming has emerged as an important supplementary source of income and employment for small and marginal farmers. Institutional support, improved cattle breeds, veterinary services, fodder development, and dairy cooperative societies have positively influenced milk production and farmers' incomes. However, inadequate fodder availability, limited technical awareness, insufficient financial assistance, and marketing constraints continue to hinder the sector's growth. The study suggests strengthening fodder development programmes, expanding veterinary infrastructure, improving institutional credit, promoting scientific cattle management practices, and enhancing dairy cooperative marketing networks. These measures would contribute to sustainable livestock development, increased rural income, and overall agricultural growth in Karnataka.

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