The Hindu Business Line : Protein supplement unit for cattle opened

A CATTLE feed plant has been commissioned in Godhra, Gujarat, which could help improve the income for small farmers. The plant, a by-pass protein unit, is expected to produce 50 tonnes of processed by-pass protein meal per day.

Dr Suresh Gulati, University of Sydney, Faculty of Veterinary Science, and Dr M.R. Garg at the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) of India are working on a research project funded by ACIAR (Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research) to help increase the productivity of ruminants in India, including dairy cattle and buffalo by using a "protected" or "by-pass" protein supplement.

The small amount of protein that is ingested from the poor quality roughage through straw is mostly broken down in the rumen (forestomach) of the cow by micro-organisms. By developing a technology that protects the protein from being degraded in the rumen, greater quantities of essential amino acids are absorbed in the small intestine, effectively increasing the nutrient intake of the cow and resulting in greater milk production. The supplement does this job on the cattle.

According to Mr David Holly, Australia's Deputy High Commissioner to India, the incorporation of the feed will result in an overall net increase in annual income of Rs 4,302 per farmer.

This is the second by-pass protein plant. The first one was set up in Itola (Vadodara) in March 2000 with a similar capacity.