Vishnu Prakash Singh alias Murari Singh, a resident of Mithepur village in the Garkha block of Chhapra, has adopted a modern approach to make dairy farming more profitable by cultivating Napier grass for his livestock. This initiative ensures a continuous supply of green fodder throughout the year while significantly reducing the expenses incurred on purchasing feed from the market. Murari Singh rears over half a dozen Gir cows and relies on the guidance of agricultural scientists, who advised him that quality nutrition is paramount for successful animal husbandry. By implementing this expert advice, he has transformed his approach to cattle feed management over the past five years.
For about five years now, he has regularly fed this nutritious grass to his cows, observing visible improvements in their overall health alongside a notable boost in milk production. Explaining the cultivation method, he noted that Napier grass can be planted in fields much like sugarcane. Its primary advantage is longevity, as a single plantation provides a sustained source of green fodder over an extended period, allowing farmers to harvest it as needed. Suitable for all types of livestock, this grass serves as an excellent source of essential nutrients required to maintain optimal animal health.
The financial benefit of growing Napier grass lies in minimizing reliance on external sources for cattle feed, thereby lowering operational costs for dairy owners. Murari Singh points out that if more livestock keepers adopt this practice, they can drastically cut down on recurring expenses and make their ventures self-sustainable. The year-round availability of green fodder eliminates the seasonal scarcity that often troubles rural farmers.
While the local farmer attributes his success in higher milk yields to this nutritious diet, experts note that actual production depends on multiple variables, including the breed, overall health, routine care, and balanced diet of the animal. Therefore, interested dairy owners are advised to consult local agricultural or veterinary specialists before introducing Napier grass into their regular feeding routines to maximize benefits safely.
