Climate change causes significant decline in milk production in India's Gangetic plains
A new study in Scientific Reports reveals that climate change is causing a massive decline in bovine milk production, particularly in India's trans-Gangetic plains. High temperatures (over 38°C) combined with high humidity (over 70%) during summer and monsoon months significantly reduce milk yield in buffaloes and cross-bred cattle, as animals divert energy to regulate body temperature. Indigenous cattle breeds like Sahiwal and Hariana show more heat tolerance. The study highlights that heat stress also impacts fodder availability, increases pest/disease attacks, and could lead to a loss of 15 million tonnes of milk by 2050s, emphasizing the need for climate-resilient livestock management.
Key Points
- Climate change, specifically high temperatures and humidity, is causing a significant decline in bovine milk production in India's trans-Gangetic plains.
- Lactating animals, especially buffaloes and cross-bred cattle, divert energy from milk production to regulate body temperature under heat stress.
- Indigenous cattle breeds demonstrate greater heat tolerance due to adaptive traits like loose skin and efficient sweating.
- The study projects substantial monetary losses in milk production and emphasizes the need for climate-resilient livestock management and breeding programs.
Exam Facts
- Study published in Scientific Reports.
- Data spanned over a decade, from 2004 to 2019.
- High temperatures (over 38°C) and high humidity (over 70%) are critical factors.
- Projected loss of 15 million tonnes of milk by 2050s.
- ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute contributed to the study.
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