Effect of area-specific mineral mixture on productivity of buffaloes and crossbred cows in adopted villages of KVK, Utukur, Andhra Pradesh
Author(s): Lavanya A and Veeraiah A
Abstract: Mineral nutrition plays a critical role in dairy productivity, reproduction, and health. Imbalances and deficiencies are common in crop-residue-based feeding systems, particularly in semi-arid regions of Andhra Pradesh. A Frontline Demonstration (FLD) was conducted in 2023 by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Utukur, Kadapa district, to evaluate the effect of area-specific mineral mixture (ASMM) supplementation in lactating buffaloes and crossbred (CB) cows in the adopted villages of Khajipeta and CK Dinne mandals. Thirty animals (20 buffaloes and 10 CB cows) were divided into control and treatment groups. Treatment animals were supplemented with ASMM @ 50 g/day/animal for 90 days in addition to farmers’ normal ration. Milk yield, milk composition, reproductive performance, and health were monitored. Results showed that ASMM supplementation significantly improved milk yield (+0.9-1.0 L/day), milk fat (+0.4%), and shortened post-partum estrus interval by ~23 days. Conception rate increased from 33% (control) to 60% (treatment). Farmers also reported better body condition and adopted ASMM use independently after witnessing benefits. The study confirms that ASMM is a sustainable, low-cost intervention for enhancing dairy productivity under smallholder conditions.
How to cite this article:
Lavanya A, Veeraiah A. Effect of area-specific mineral mixture on productivity of buffaloes and crossbred cows in adopted villages of KVK, Utukur, Andhra Pradesh. Int J Vet Sci Anim Husbandry 2025;10(9):01-03.
