Sri Vijaya Puram, May 16: The Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services (AH&VS) has issued an advisory urging livestock owners across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to strengthen fodder and feed preparedness measures ahead of the disaster season.
According to the department, natural disasters and extreme weather events often lead to acute shortages of fodder and drinking water, directly affecting livestock health, milk production and the livelihoods of farmers dependent on animal husbandry activities.
Officials stated that disruptions caused by cyclones, heavy rainfall, flooding and seawater intrusion can damage grazing areas and stored feed resources, making advance preparedness important for livestock management during emergencies.
The department advised livestock owners to cultivate high-yielding fodder crops such as Hybrid Napier, Guinea grass, maize, sorghum and cowpea on available agricultural land, field bunds, pond embankments and community spaces wherever feasible.
Farmers have also been encouraged to conserve surplus green fodder in the form of hay and silage for emergency use.
According to officials, crop residues including paddy straw and maize stover should be properly dried and stored to maintain reserves during periods when fresh fodder may become unavailable.
The advisory also recommends the establishment of village-level fodder banks for storage of dry fodder, concentrate feed and mineral mixtures to support livestock during emergencies.
Authorities stated that community participation through Panchayats, self-help groups, cooperatives and local institutions could play an important role in ensuring availability and distribution of fodder resources during disaster situations.
The department further advised farmers to explore alternative fodder sources such as Azolla cultivation, hydroponic green fodder systems and tree fodder resources that can supplement conventional feed supplies.
Officials noted that efficient utilisation of available feed resources becomes particularly important during emergencies.
Priority feeding has been recommended for pregnant animals, lactating cattle and young livestock to reduce the risk of health complications and production losses during periods of fodder scarcity.
The department also advised supplementation of animal feed with mineral mixtures and salt to maintain nutritional balance.
Livestock owners have additionally been instructed to store fodder and feed in elevated and protected locations to minimise damage caused by flooding, heavy rain or seawater intrusion.
Adequate storage of clean drinking water during disaster warnings has also been recommended as part of preparedness measures.
Officials stated that the Islands remain vulnerable to cyclones, heavy rainfall events, flooding and other natural disasters that can disrupt agricultural and livestock-related activities for extended periods.
Animal husbandry continues to remain an important livelihood source for many rural households across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, particularly in areas where dairy farming and livestock rearing supplement household income and nutritional needs.
The department has appealed to livestock owners to take advance precautionary measures and maintain sufficient fodder reserves to safeguard animal health and productivity during emergencies.
Farmers requiring technical guidance or support have been advised to contact the nearest veterinary hospital or veterinary dispensary for assistance related to fodder cultivation, feed conservation and livestock management practices.
Officials stated that strengthening preparedness at the community level could help reduce the impact of disasters on livestock resources and support continuity of rural livelihoods during adverse weather conditions.
