Question : FODDER PRODUCTION

(a) whether due to severe drought conditions prevailing in various parts of the country, the production of fodder has shown a declining trend thereby affecting the livestock population;

(b) if so, the exact shortfall in fodder production reported , State/ UT-wise;

(c) whether these State Governments have sought special assistance from the Union Government to tide over the crisis;

(d) if so, the assistance sought and provided to the States/ UTs so far;

(e) whether the Government proposes to ensure fodder security to the livestock population on the lines of the food security for human beings; and

(f) if so, the details thereof?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR AGRICULTURE, AND FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES (DR. CHARAN DAS MAHANT)

a) Yes, Madam.

b) Preliminary reports indicate a decline in area under cultivation of coarse cereals to the extent of 4.03 million hectare which is likely to have an adverse impact on availability of feed and fodder.

c) and d) The States of Gujarat, Haryana, Karaataka, Maharashtra, Punjab, and Rajasthan have sought assistance to the tune of Rs 43,461.73 crore for drought mitigation across various sectors, including feed and fodder.

e) and f) There is no such proposal under consideration, as Central and Centrally Sponsored Schemes are available for development of feed and fodder.