JAMMU: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana, today emphasised the need for increased fodder production and pasture improvement to coup up with the fodder demand. The Minister was chairing a meeting at Civil Secretariat here held to review the functioning of Agrostology.
Highlighting the adverse impact of grazing on natural regeneration and reduction in palatable species of grasses, Javed Rana pointed out the need to enhance the production and productivity of fodder, thereby reducing pressure on forests. He said that significant focus should be given to Agrostology which is aimed at fodder production by planting palatable grasses and tree species which provide high quality fodder. He added that areas with high cattle density and routes of nomadic graziers should be prioritised for taking up the interventions.
Underlining the importance of green fodder round the year for sustained and economical milk production, Rana asked for formulating cropping plans to ensure round the year supply of green fodder. He said that dairy farmers have been looking towards the improved technology for continuous flow of green fodder through out the year.
During the meeting, availability of timber and firewood in far flung areas also came up for discussion. The minister directed for close coordination to ensure availability of timber at all locations. He also called for devising a system so that fallen timber does not decay, while calling for a mechanism to lower the costs of extraction and transportation costs.
