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Their earnings from selling milk range between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 1.5 lakh. (Representative image)
Pude has started cultivating three types of grass – Gajraj, Dashrath and Jinjwa, imported from Gujarat.
Farmers in Solapur, Maharashtra, are increasingly diversifying their income through various complementary businesses such as goat rearing, cattle rearing, poultry, fish farming and dairy farming. Among them, a farmer named Shashikant Pude from Shejbabhulgaon in the Mohol area has adopted an innovative approach that is proving to be very lucrative.
Pude has started growing three types of grasses (Gajraj, Dashrath and Jinjwa), imported from Gujarat. These grasses have significantly improved the nutrition of his Khillar cows, resulting in a daily milk production of 5 to 5.5 litres per cow. In a conversation with Local18, Pude shared his insights on his farming methods and how this unique approach is boosting his income.
The key to healthy livestock: special varieties of grass
Pude has dedicated his efforts to breeding Khillar breed cows and bulls. To ensure that these animals receive the best possible nutrition, he has experimented with growing Gajraj, Dashrath and Jinjwa grasses in his fields. These grass varieties, sourced from Gujarat, have proven to be an excellent source of nutrition for his cattle, leading to increased milk production and income.
How much does a kilogram of cow's milk sell for?
Today, Shashikant Pude owns a herd of nine cows, two calves and three bulls. He collects 15-18 litres of milk a day, which he sells to consumers in Mohol at a price of Rs 80 per litre. In addition, Pude produces 3-5 kilograms of ghee every month, which is sold at Rs 3,000 per kilogram.
Jinjawa herb from Gujarat: a turning point
Pude sources Jinjawa grass from Gujarat, a variety that grows up to 1.50 metres in height. This grass provides an abundant supply of fodder that remains intact even after being cut, dried and piled. Its high nutritional value makes it especially beneficial for dairy cows.
By growing a combination of Gajraj, Dashrath and Jinjawa grass, Pude has significantly improved the diet of his cows. As a result, they now produce between 5 and 11 litres of milk per day. Pude shared that after deducting management expenses, his earnings from milk sales range between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 1.5 lakh.
