Fodder planning for a dry winter

A weak monsoon means less grass and crop residue in many districts, and fodder can run short before the next rains. Planning now protects milk yields and animal health through winter and a possibly hot summer.

Now (October–November). Official advisories say surplus green fodder should be conserved as silage or hay for the lean months. IMD's Karnataka agromet bulletin of 16 October 2026 notes that silage-making improves livestock productivity by ensuring fodder supply in the lean period.

Through winter. Feed a balanced ration. The same IMD bulletin suggests that for milch animals, fodder be kept at about one part leguminous fodder to three parts non-leguminous fodder for good milk yield and quality. Where irrigation is available, it advises growing fodder crops such as maize and jowar for the lean period.

March–April. The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying advises sowing moong, maize, cowpea, perennial grasses and similar crops in March and April for green fodder in summer.

Summer. Harvest green fodder at the 50% flowering stage, and conserve any surplus as hay or silage. Add mineral mixture and common salt to the diet, and give plenty of clean water.

Silage and hay, simply. Silage is green fodder packed airtight in a pit or bag so it ferments and keeps. Hay is green fodder dried and stored dry. Your KVK or veterinary office can show you how to make both.

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