AN ECONOMIC STUDY OF DAIRY FARMING IN BIKANER DISTRICT OF RAJASTHAN

The study showed the cross breed cows (Holstein Friesian) are much superior to local cows and buffalo in production traits and input ¿ output relationship. The nutrient supplied in form of DCP and TDN was less than the recommended quantity for these milch animals. Out of total milk production 13 per cent milk was used at home consumption and 87 per cent milk was sold out. Feed was the major cost component in total variable cost followed by labour cost. Dry fodder followed by concentrates was major feed item for milch animals. Most of the dairy owners were practicing scientific management practices such as feeding practices, cleaning of animals and animal¿s sheds, grooming, health practices partially very few management practices such as watering, deworming and treatments were adopting fully by dairy owners. However, some practices like housing facilities, tattooing, dehorning, hoof trimming artificial insemination, were not adopted at any level by dairy owners. The major constraints for lack of management practices adoption were non availability of green fodder in adequate quantity for purchasing, high feed cost, lack of awareness and not feel necessary, lack of facilities.