Bandipora, Nov 10: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) has introduced a specialized mineral supplement designed to address the distinct dietary needs of sheep in Gurez valley of North Kashmir’s Bandipora district.
The intervention was formulated under the guidance of the Division of Animal Nutrition at SKUAST-Kashmir and championed by the startup KashVet Innovations Pvt. Ltd to not only combat seasonal feed scarcity but to elevate the health, productivity, and economic prospects of the valley’s sheep rearers.
Incharge of KVK Gurez, Professor Bilal Ahmad told Rising Kashmir that as winter casts its cold shadow over the Gurez Valley, the residents face a dual challenge – ensuring their own sustenance and safeguarding the well-being of their vital livestock, particularly the sheep.
He said that the onset of winter intensifies the scarcity of quality feed and fodder, exacerbated by heavy snowfall, leaving animals vulnerable to a decline in body condition, weight, immunity, and overall performance.
Responding to this imminent challenge, KVK Gurez has initiated a solution – KashMin-S, a mineral supplement meticulously crafted for the specific nutritional requirements of sheep, he added.
He underscored the critical distinction in feed requirements between cattle and sheep. Often, sheep rearers unknowingly employ the same feed for both, leading to detrimental impacts on the production performance of sheep.
Taking a proactive stance, KVK Gurez organized an awareness cum distribution program in the villages of Dangithal and Bosgay. Fifty sheep rearers were equipped with KashMin-S which marks a significant stride in promoting optimal nutrition for the valley’s livestock.
Dr. Nazir Ahmad Mir, a Scientist specializing in Animal Science at the Kendra, emphasized the significance of KashMin-S and guided beneficiaries on its recommended dosage for maximum benefits.
The unique mineral mixture is anticipated to enhance Body Condition Score (BSC), Average Daily Gain (ADG), bolster immunity, improve reproduction, and contribute holistically to the well-being of the animals, he added.
Bilal said that they are looking for widespread KashMin-S distribution among sheep rearers in the near future to foresee a substantial economic uplift for the valley.
This initiative will not only address the immediate nutritional needs of sheep but will also hold the promise of fostering sustainable growth within the local economy.
