Nanded, Oct 22 With drought conditions in Maharashtra raising concerns over fodder availability, Nanded Collector Rahul Kardile has directed industries to reserve 50 per cent of their available agricultural residue stocks for fodder processing to ensure adequate feed supply for livestock.
Kardile issued the directions during an inspection of some units in the Krishnur industrial area of Nanded Wednesday evening, a release from the district administration said.
The Maharashtra government has declared a drought in 305 out of 358 talukas, over 85 per cent of the state, following a severe monsoon rain deficit.
He reviewed the availability of agricultural residues, their use in industrial processes and measures to divert a portion of the stock towards livestock feed.
The district administration has initiated measures to ensure fodder availability amid the prevailing drought conditions. Orders have been issued regarding the transportation and sale of crop residues, soybean stalks and sugarcane bagasse to make these materials available for animal feed.
During discussions with industry representatives, Kardile emphasised that agricultural residues used in biocoal production and other industrial processes should also be considered a vital resource for livestock during the drought, the release said.
He urged industries to cooperate with the administration and set aside a portion of their available stocks for fodder production, it stated.
The collector also highlighted the potential of treating soybean stalks and sugarcane bagasse with urea and molasses to improve their nutritional value. Proper treatment can make these agricultural residues a useful alternative feed source during periods of fodder scarcity.
He appealed to biocoal manufacturers and farmers across the district to work with the administration to strengthen fodder management and reduce the impact of the drought on livestock, the release added.
(PTI News)
