Extreme Heat Threatens India's Record Milk Production and Dairy Farmers
India's record milk production, reaching 239 million tonnes in 2023-24, faces significant challenges from extreme heat linked to climate change. Dairy farmers report premature births and reduced milk output, with production falling by nearly 30% during heatwaves. Heat stress reduces cows' feed intake, diverts energy from milk production and reproduction, and increases costs for farmers to keep animals cool. While larger organized dairy operators can adapt with cooling systems, small farmers with limited capital struggle. The dairy sector, contributing 5% to India's GDP and supporting 80 million farmers, is vulnerable, highlighting the need for resilient strategies against climate impacts.
Key Points
- India achieved record milk production of 239 million tonnes in 2023-24, but extreme heat poses a significant threat.
- Heat stress in cattle leads to reduced feed intake, lower milk production (up to 30% drop), and reproductive issues like premature births.
- Small dairy farmers, who constitute the majority of India's milk producers, struggle to afford cooling systems and management strategies.
- The dairy sector is crucial to India's economy, contributing 5% of GDP and supporting 80 million farmers.
- Climate change-induced extreme heat exposes vulnerabilities in India's dairy model, necessitating resilient adaptation strategies.
Exam Facts
- India's milk production: 239 million tonnes in 2023-24 fiscal year.
- Dairy sector contribution to GDP: About 5%.
- Number of farmers supported by dairy: More than 80 million.
- Milk production can fall by nearly 30% during extreme heat.
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