• DAIRY FARMING IN INDIA: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF PRODUCTION SYSTEMS, INPUT CHALLENGES, AND SUSTAINABILITY MEASURES

Dr. Shiv Shanker Katiyar

Abstract: Dairy farming has been a pillar of rural livelihoods in India for decades, contributing significantly to income, nutrition, and employment. With the largest population of milk consumers and producers worldwide, India's dairy landscape varies from smallholder mixed-farming systems to peri-urban commercial dairies. The industry has experienced vigorous growth, with milk production increasing steadily at an average annual rate of 4.2% since 2000. Notwithstanding the impressive production figures, the Indian dairy industry is still plagued by several challenges. These include low per-animal productivity, restricted access to quality feed and fodder, high cost of production, disease prevalence, and weak veterinary infrastructure. The dominance of the unorganized sector also inhibits efficiency and quality control. The present paper gives an in-depth analysis of India's dairy production systems, identifies input-related problems preventing optimal output, and discusses ecologically sustainable farming practices to increase productivity while maintaining ecological balance. The review highlights the need for policy reforms, enhanced extension services, uptake of new technologies, and increased support to small-scale dairy farmers to attain a resilient and sustainable dairy industry.