Grasslands, grazing lands or pastures, are crucial for the agricultural economy, particularly for countries like India where dairy farming plays a significant role in rural livelihoods. The recent statistics indicating a significant loss of 31% of India’s grassland area from 2005 to 2015 raise alarming concerns regarding the sustainability of the dairy industry and the livelihood of small dairy farmers.

The decline from 18 million hectares to 12.3 million hectares over a decade underlines severe environmental and socio-economic issues. Grasslands serve as the primary source of fodder for livestock, which is the backbone of the dairy industry. The reduction can be attributed to several factors, including urbanization, industrialization, overgrazing, and climate change. These factors contribute to the degradation of grasslands, reducing their capacity to support livestock and thus impacting the dairy production chain.

The dairy industry, being one of the pillars of India’s agricultural sector, heavily relies on the health of its grasslands. A 31% reduction in grassland area directly impacts fodder availability, which is critical for milk production. This scarcity leads to increased costs for fodder, pushing the dairy industry to look for alternative, often less nutritious, feed options. The decline in fodder quality can affect milk yield and quality, thereby affecting the competitiveness and profitability of the dairy sector on both national and international platforms.

Furthermore, the reduction in grassland area might force the industry to adopt intensive farming practices, which could lead to further environmental degradation and increased carbon footprint, deviating from the traditionally sustainable practices of Indian dairy farming.

Small dairy farmers, who constitute a significant portion of the dairy industry in India, are the hardest hit by this trend. These farmers typically rely on nearby grasslands to feed their livestock, and the reduction in grassland area directly impacts their ability to sustain their herds. Increased fodder prices and reduced availability can lead to financial strain, forcing them to reduce the size of their herds or exit the industry altogether.

Moreover, small dairy farmers often lack the financial resources to adapt to changing conditions or invest in alternative feed sources. This vulnerability could lead to decreased income, increased debt, and ultimately, a threat to their livelihoods. The social implications are also significant, as many rural communities depend on dairy farming not just for income, but also for nutrition and cultural practices.