IGFRI advocates high-yield forage crops to address fodder deficit in J&K

Pulwama, Jan 13: The Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute (IGFRI) in Srinagar emphasises the importance of adopting high-yield, perennial, and nutritious forage crops to tackle the fodder deficiency issue in Jammu and Kashmir.
Scientists at the Regional Research Station of IGFRI highlight that introducing such crops in pasture lands, forests, and fruit orchards across the region can significantly increase per-hectare production.
Jammu is reported to be 32% deficient in dry fodder, while Kashmir faces a higher deficit at 48%. The scientists stress the urgent need to expand the cultivable area under fodder crops to bridge the gap between demand and availability.
Currently, pastures and forests in Jammu and Kashmir grow low-yield grasses, resulting in limited productivity. Dr. Suheel Ahmad, Senior Scientist at IGFRI Srinagar, mentions that the average productivity of pastures can be increased from 1000-3000 kilograms per hectare to 10,000 kilograms per hectare by introducing high-yield perennial crops.
Dr. Ahmad advocates for the adoption of high-yield fodder crops such as Sainfoin, Tall Fescue, Rye Grass, Orchard Grass, Phalaris Grass, and Timothy.
He explains that beyond high yield, some of these crops, like Sainfoin, offer additional benefits, such as nitrogen fixation and attractiveness to pollinators.
The scientists have been actively working to create awareness among Kashmir’s residents about the benefits of adopting high-yield fodder crops.
They have conducted awareness campaigns in various areas, including Anantnag, Ganderbal, Shopian, and Pulwama, encouraging farmers to scientifically cultivate these crops after providing them with quality planting material.