Introduction

India is home to one of the largest cattle populations in the world, with over two crores (20 million) of farmers from more than two lakhs (2,00,000) villages actively depending on cattle production for their livelihoods. The dairy sector serves as a primary source of income for at least six lakhs (6,00,000) of milk producers, majorly women, as highlighted by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB). However, climate change has posed significant concerns and new threats to cattle farming in recent years. The dynamic nature of the climate always has and will continue to affect the cattle farming industry. Over time, we have witnessed cattle production being affected by severe drought, floods, extreme heat, or extreme cold. Sometimes death loss or financial loss is inevitable.
In a vast and beautiful land, farmers and their beloved cattle once flourished side by side, bringing fresh milk and nourishment to millions of people. But this idyllic picture now faces a new and daunting challenge - climate change. It's like a tricky puzzle that gets more complicated with each passing day. As the climate shifts, farmers and their cattle face the harsh realities of unpredictable weather, extreme heat, water scarcity, and the increased risk of diseases. Despite these difficulties, Indian cattle farmers are not giving up. With unwavering determination and a spirit of adaptation, farmers actively explore innovative solutions and adjust their practices to ensure a brighter future for their cattle and communities.

Understanding the Impacts of Climate Change on Cattle

Climate change is rapidly reshaping the way agriculture works, posing immense threats to food production and the livelihoods of millions of farmers around the world. The impact of climate change is already visible in India, where it is adversely affecting cattle.
According to a report published by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the global temperature has already risen by 1.07°C since the pre-industrial period, and India’s average temperature has increased by 0.7°C in the hundred years. This temperature rise has led to significant changes in cattle farming practices, resulting in severe economic losses for farmers.
Climate change has several remarkable impacts on cattle farming, including:

Heat Stress:

Cattle are quite sensitive to heat stress, which can lead to decreased feed intake, weight loss, and reduced milk production. Heat stress can also cause respiratory distress, and in severe cases, death. A study published in the Journal of Animal Science found that heat stress in dairy cows in India can lead to a 5–10% reduction in milk production. It can cause significant economic losses for the farmers, who often rely on milk production as their primary source of income.

Water Shortages:

In many areas of India, water scarcity is a severe problem that can have a substantial effect on cattle farming. According to a report by the Water Resources Group, India is expected to have a 50% water shortage by 2030, which could make it difficult for farmers to provide adequate water to their cattle.

Increased Disease Risk:

Climate change is creating more favourable conditions for the spread of diseases that affect cattle. For example, a study published in the journal PLOS ONE found that rising temperatures could increase the risk of outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease in India.

Reduced Productivity:

Climate change can lead to reduced productivity in cattle. It also affects the reproductive performance of cattle, leading to reduced fertility, increased embryonic death, and reduced calf survival rates. According to a study published in the journal Current Science, heat stress can cause a 20-40% decrease in milk production in dairy cows in India.

Habitat Loss:

Habitat loss is also a concern for cattle farming in India, particularly in areas where forests are being cut down for agriculture. According to a report by the Forest Survey of India, forest cover in the country has shrunk by 367 square kilometres per year between 2017 and 2019, which could affect grazing patterns for cattle and lead to reduced access to food.

What measures can be taken?

To address the challenges posed by climate change on cattle farming in India, several measures can be taken to mitigate the effects, including:

Sufficient Ventilation and Shade:

Cattle in India experience severe heat stress, especially during the summer. They will experience less heat stress if there is enough shade and excellent ventilation in the barns or shed. Research published by National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) reveals that introducing fans and improving ventilation can increase milk production by up to 15% in hot and muggy areas of India.

Water Management:

Given the increasing water scarcity, adopting water-saving practices is crucial. Farmers can implement rainwater harvesting and water recycling systems to ensure a steady water supply for their cattle.

Feed and Nutrition Quality:

Climate change can affect the availability and quality of feed. You can work to improve the nutrition of your cattle by planting drought-resistant crops and providing nutrient supplements to ensure that the cattle are receiving the necessary nutrients.

Technology and Smart Cattle Management Solution:

Technology can help you monitor the health and productivity of your cattle and make informed decisions. Cattle management solutions can provide real-time data on factors affecting the health and productivity of cattle, enabling you to make timely interventions to prevent heat stress and other health problems.
Implementing these measures can be challenging for farmers, especially those with limited resources. However, the use of cattle management solutions can help you overcome some of these challenges by providing you with real-time data and analytics to make informed decisions. By taking proactive measures to mitigate the effects of climate change on cattle farming, you can secure your farm and ensure the sustainability of your businesses.

Conclusion:

In the face of a changing climate, Indian cattle farming stands at a crucial crossroads. As we witness the undeniable impact of climate change on farmers and their cattle, it becomes clear that proactive measures are the key to securing a sustainable future. By embracing technology, innovative practices, and compassion, farmers can protect their livelihoods, nurture their cattle, and ensure a bountiful tomorrow for all. Together, let's protect our cattle and ensure a flourishing future for the farming community.