Assessment of the knowledge and adoption rates of enhanced animal husbandry practices among dairy farmers in Udaipur district of Rajasthan

Abstract

The study was conducted in Udaipur district, Rajasthan, involving four tehsils (Mavli, Vallabhnagar, Kotra, and Jhadol). From each tehsil, four villages were selected, and from each village, 10 respondents with a minimum of five dairy animals were randomly chosen, resulting in a total of 160 dairy farmers. Data collection was performed through structured interviews using a pre-tested questionnaire. Statistical analysis of the collected data utilized basic measures such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. The results showed that 76.25% of Non-Tribal and 78.75% of Tribal respondents possessed a medium level of knowledge. Non-Tribal farmers demonstrated a higher level of knowledge in breeding practices, specifically artificial insemination (AI) at 93.75 MPS (Mean Percentage Score) and heat detection at 96.25 MPS, while both groups exhibited a lack of knowledge in pregnancy diagnosis. Regarding general management, both groups lacked understanding in aspects such as high-yielding fodder and separate housing. Adoption levels were classified as medium and high, with 67.50% and 31.25% for Non-Tribal farmers and 26.25% and 73.75% for Tribal farmers, representing low and medium adoption levels, respectively. The highest adoption levels were observed for AI at the time of heat, feeding colostrum to newborn calves, and providing permanent housing facilities. For health and hygiene practices, proper vaccination for dairy animals was highly adopted by Non-Tribal farmers, while grooming dairy animals was the most adopted practice in Tribal areas.