In today’s KJ Chaupal, Dr Anup Kalra, CEO of Ayurvet Research Foundation and Director QCS Herbals and Alternate Green Energy Solutions, and Mohanji Saxena, Managing Trustee of Ayurvet Research Foundation shared their valuable insights on animal health, nutrition & diagnostics, and other areas for the welfare of animals and the community at large.
At Krishi Jagran, greeting guests with a plant is a long-held tradition. The KJ Team welcomed both by presenting a small plant as a token of affection and good fortune, while Founder & Editor-in-Chief M C Dominic extended a warm welcome, appreciating their extensive knowledge and experience in the agriculture sector. A short film was played highlighting the journey of Krishi Jagran from inception to the present. The movie discussed various projects undertaken by Krishi Jagran over the years, starting from 'Farmer the Journalist' to 'Farmer the Brand-Organic'. The major highlight of the short video was celebrating the success of the Millionaire Farmer of India Award 2023 and previewing the innovative initiatives planned for MFOI 2024.
Ayurvet Research Foundation (ARF) is a Public Charitable Trust dedicated to conducting research in animal health, nutrition, diagnostics, and related areas for the benefit of animals and the wider community. Since its establishment, ARF has championed "Sustainable Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Practices," advocating for environmentally friendly and cost-effective technologies.
A Call for Nutritional Security and Sustainable Solutions
In his address, Mohanji Saxena praised Krishi Jagran for their efforts and passionately discussed the positive impact of the Millionaire Farmer of India initiative. He highlighted its benefits for the farming community and agricultural professionals, emphasizing how it provides a platform to connect with grassroots levels.
“The agriculture and food production ecosystems are facing challenges posed by water scarcity, extreme heat waves, and soil infertility. In this context, the agriculture sector's survival is being questioned. In India, livestock and agriculture form two interconnected aspects of the agricultural economy, co-dependent on each other,” said Mohanji Saxena.
Saxena suggested that historical approaches to agricultural issues could offer solutions to current challenges sustainably. Now, the agriculture sector's primary challenge is nutritional security rather than food security, focusing on meeting energy requirements effectively.
Importance of Agriculture and Livestock in Rural Economy
Dr. Anup Kalra highlighted the importance of our food systems, emphasizing farmers as key contributors to food production. He stressed the pivotal role of agriculture and livestock sectors in the rural economy. The Livestock sector contributes around 5% GDP and approximately 30% of total Agriculture GDP.
Dr. Kalra underscored the importance of maintaining healthy livestock to ensure quality food. He stressed the need for proper nutrition for cows and buffaloes to yield quality milk, lamenting the inadequate availability of compound feed despite India's status as the world's largest milk producer.
