Fodder on bunds : A resource-efficient technology for Bundelkhand region

Abstract

Agriculture and livestock are integral to rural life in India, yet livestock productivity is hindered by a significant green fodder shortage, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. With only 8.4 million hectares under fodder cultivation, expanding this area is challenging due to competing demands from food crops. The Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute introduced the 'fodder on bunds' technology under the Farmer FIRST Programme. This approach involves growing BN hybrid grass on bunds, utilizing otherwise unused land. It requires minimal resources, provides year-round green fodder, improves soil quality, and protects adjacent crops from heatwaves. This article describes the success story of Sh. Uttam Rajpoot, a beneficiary farmer under the Farmer FIRST Programme in the adopted village of Palinda in Jhansi district, Uttar Pradesh. He has not only secured a reliable source of fodder for his livestock without allocating additional land but has also protected his vegetable crops from the harsh effects of heatwaves.