Impact of social factors in adoption of fertisure‐1: A cost effective, mineral based infertility control technology for sustainable dairy production

Abstract

Livestock is the main source of cash income for the farmers. Infertility in animals accounts for major economic losses in dairy farming. The present study was undertaken to assess adoption status of fertisure‐1, a highly effective, economic and easy to adopt mineral based infertility control technology. This technology was intervened to the farmers of Barabanki and Raebareli districts of Uttar Pradesh, India. Pashupalak gosthi (Livestock owner’s forums)were organized in project area frequently at village level. Information was provided regarding identification of estrus, proper heat, insemination time, importance of deworming, role of mineral mixture and vitamins, balance diet, high genetic merit of bull, role of artificial insemination (AI), feeding methods, animal reproduction and other management practices. Level of adoption during the years 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013 was observed to be 79.5, 82.0, 85.5, 89.0 and 94.0%, respectively. 85% of respondents belonged to the age group between 30 to 50 years. Majority of the respondents were male (93.50%) and showed inherent impression of our society. 19.25% of adopters were engaged in dairy farming as primary occupation, while 80.75% adopted it as subsidiary occupation. Majority of the respondents (67.25%) were having less than 1 ha land while 32.75% had more than that. 81.25% were having less than 6 animals while 18.75% had more than 6 animals. Most of the respondents were educated (88.25%). Fertisure‐1 was found as unique intervention technology which attracted the small holders as well as marginal farmers and landless labours in enhancing the livelihood security.