Context:

• The Punjab government is set to launch a significant project aimed at identifying and establishing the milk production potential of Holstein Friesian (HF) cows across three districts: Ludhiana, Moga, and Fatehgarh Sahib.

Key Points:

• This ?5.31 crore (approximately US$629,000) initiative seeks to boost the profitability of the state's dairy farming sector by systematically recording milk production and leveraging data for future improvements. This article explores the project's objectives, implementation strategy, expected outcomes, and potential challenges.

Objectives of the Project

The primary goals of the project are multifaceted and focus on enhancing the dairy farming landscape in Punjab:

• Identification of high-performing cows: The project seeks to pinpoint HF cows with superior milk-producing capabilities within the selected districts. By identifying these high-potential animals, the initiative aims to optimize milk production in the region.
   
• Data collection on milk output: Accurate data on milk output will be collected to assess the genetic potential and productivity of HF cows. This data will serve as a foundation for making informed decisions regarding breeding and management practices.
   
• Economic viability for farmers: By identifying productive cows and providing data-driven insights, the project aims to improve the economic viability of dairy farming for local farmers. Enhanced profitability will contribute to the overall economic stability of farming communities.
   
• National database accessibility: Milk production data will be uploaded to a national database, making it accessible to farmers, government agencies, and other stakeholders. This transparency will facilitate better decision-making and resource allocation.

Implementation strategy

The project will focus on approximately 13,000 HF cows across 90 villages in Ludhiana, Moga, and Fatehgarh Sahib during the financial years 2024-25 and 2025-26. The implementation will follow a structured approach:

• Identification of eligible cows: Project supervisors and local staff from the Animal Husbandry Department will identify eligible HF breed cows for milk recording. This initial step is crucial for ensuring that the right animals are included in the study.
   
• Data collection process: Farmers will continue to milk their cows as usual, while designated milk recorders will collect data on milk output using GPS-enabled smart weighing scales. Milk recording will occur two to three times a day, depending on the farmer's convenience, over a 10-month period. This systematic approach will ensure comprehensive data collection.
   
• Automated data upload: The collected data will be automatically uploaded to a national database, ensuring transparency and accessibility. This real-time data management will facilitate timely analysis and reporting.
   
• Support for farmers: The state government will assist farmers in purchasing male HF calves born to selected cows, increasing the animals' value and promoting dairy farming. This support will enhance the economic prospects for farmers involved in the project.