ICAR-CCARI, Goa Conducted Training on ‘Scientific Dairy Farming’ and Input distribution under SCSP at Brahmavar, Udupi, Karnataka

ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa conducted a one-day skill development training programme on "Scientific Dairy Farming" at the ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Brahmavar, Udupi District, Karnataka on January 10, 2025. This training was aimed at enhancing the knowledge and practices of dairy farming among local farmers and farm women from five villages. As part of the Government of India's Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP), the event was held in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Brahmavar. A total of 30 scheduled caste farmers (12) and farm women (18) participated in this insightful program.

Dr. Sreekanth G.B., Senior Scientist (Fisheries) and Nodal Officer for SCSP, welcomed participants and provided an overview of the SCSP activities carried out by ICAR-CCARI Goa in coastal districts of East and West Coast of India. Dr. Shirish Narnaware, Senior Scientist (Veterinary Pathology) and Co-Nodal Officer for SCSP, delivered an informative talk on mastitis and reproductive management in dairy cattle, helping farmers understand how to prevent and manage these common challenges. Dr. Udharwar S.V., SMS (Animal Science) and Co-Nodal Officer for SCSP, addressed the critical aspects of newborn calf care and management, underlining the importance of early-stage animal health for long-term productivity.

Dr. Sudhir Kamath, K.V., Associate Professor (Agronomy) at the GKMS, ZAHRS, Brahmavar in his inaugural address, emphasized the importance of adopting integrated farming systems for achieving sustainable agricultural practices. Dr. Manjunatha Adiga, Veterinary Officer from the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, Government of Karnataka, provided valuable insights into preventive measures for key diseases affecting dairy animals. Dr. Shivakumar, Scientist (Animal Science) from KVK, Dakshina Kannada, Mangalore, discussed common nutritional and metabolic diseases in dairy cattle, along with strategies for their prevention and management. Dr. Dhananjaya B., Senior Scientist and Head of KVK, Brahmavar, encouraged the farmers to adopt scientific dairy practices for improving milk production and animal health.

The session concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr. Sadananda Acharya, Associate Professor (Fisheries), who expressed gratitude to all the participants and resource persons. In addition to the informative lectures, the event also included the distribution of essential veterinary medicines, mineral mixtures, and growth-promoting tonics to all participants. This initiative aims to empower the local farming community with the knowledge and resources needed to enhance their dairy farming practices and improve overall animal welfare. The training session was coordinated by Dr. Udharwar S.V., Dr. Shirish Narnaware, Dr. Sreekanth G.B. and Dr. Sadananda Acharya.