Maharashtra Government unveils Fodder Development Policy to tackle shortage
Under the policy, the list of grasses suitable for cultivation, fodder-producing trees, improved fodder crops, and traditional and non-traditional sources of fodder will be made and develop the schemes
Maharashtra's cabinet unveiled the Fodder Development Policy on September 29, 2026, to combat the dairy sector's fodder shortage amid a drought situation. The policy includes a district-wise plan for cultivating grasses, fodder trees, and improved fodder crops, along with the identification of suitable grasses, trees, crops, and traditional/non-traditional sources of fodder.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a separate government resolution addressing water usage, livestock measures, and drinking water during the 2026 kharif season. A state-level task force will assess livestock population and fodder availability to recommend bridging the demand-supply gap. The policy proposes increasing the area under fodder cultivation, developing pastures, promoting horti-pasture systems, and cultivating perennial grasses alongside fodder-producing trees.
Ground truthing, the process of gathering empirical data in the field, will be conducted to verify information collected remotely, considering rainfall averages at mandal-levels to address inconsistencies caused by unusual weather patterns. The government has allocated ₹6,728 crores for drought relief works, with the Centre contributing 60% of the funds and the state contributing 40%.
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