{
  "type": "article",
  "title": "Scientists in Pali Develop Thornless Cactus as Green Fodder for Livestock in Low Water",
  "summary": "Researchers in Pali, Rajasthan, have successfully developed a thornless cactus species that grows in minimal water and barren soil, providing rich green fodder for livestock.",
  "content": "Amid recurring fears of scanty rainfall and droughts that leave livestock owners worried about fodder, a remarkably effective solution has emerged from Rajasthan. Agricultural scientists stationed at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Pali have devised an innovative method to tackle feed shortages by utilizing a unique strain of cactus. Following extensive research and trials across numerous varieties, the experts have successfully cultivated a special species that yields exceptional green fodder while requiring minimal moisture. Most importantly, this particular cactus variant is entirely devoid of thorns, making it exceptionally safe, digestible, and beneficial for animal health and milk yield.\n\n \n\nExtensive Research Across Eighty Varieties\n According to scientist Jhabar Singh, the initiative involved rigorous testing and field trials of 80 distinct types of cacti. After prolonged investigation, researchers selected this specific thornless variety to introduce to the agricultural community. Conventionally, cacti are considered entirely unsuitable for animal consumption due to their sharp protective spikes. However, this specialized thornless cultivar has proven to be an easily digestible and highly nutritious green forage option for farm animals, alleviating major concerns during dry spells.\n\n \n\nThriving in Barren Land With Minimal Water\n The standout advantage of this cactus lies in its remarkable ability to flourish effortlessly in regions plagued by extreme water scarcity. Farmers can effortlessly cultivate the crop even on infertile and barren patches of land. The planting procedure itself is straightforward; one-third (1/3) portion of a single leaf is planted directly into the soil. Once the plant takes root and new leaves begin to sprout, it ceases to require any supplementary irrigation. The plant independently absorbs necessary moisture directly from atmospheric humidity in the surrounding air.\n\nPacked With Ninety Percent Water and Twenty-Two Percent Protein\n From the perspective of animal health and dairy productivity, this cactus functions virtually like a superfood. Its succulent leaves contain up to 90 percent water content, effectively preventing dehydration among livestock during scorching summer months. Furthermore, it boasts a protein content of up to 22 percent, which directly contributes to boosting milk production and maintaining robust physical health. Requiring negligible maintenance and virtually no production cost, this specialized cactus is poised to significantly strengthen the financial well-being of livestock farmers across western Rajasthan.\n\nWhat this means for you\nThis innovative agricultural technique offers direct relief to livestock farmers facing severe water scarcity across various regions.\n\n• Across India: Farmers in drought-prone and low-rainfall areas nationwide will secure a permanent remedy against fodder shortages. Reduced spending on purchased feed will lower overall livestock maintenance expenses and enhance profitability.\n• In Pali: Local farmers and pastoralists in Pali and western Rajasthan gain a productive way to utilize barren land. Livestock struggling with seasonal feed and water scarcity during intense summers will experience improved health and higher milk yields.\n\nQuestions & Answers\n\n1. Which institution developed this thornless cactus?\nThis specialized cactus variety was developed by scientists at the Central Arid Zone Research Institute center located in Pali, Rajasthan.\n\n2. How much water is required to grow this cactus?\nOnce planted, the crop requires no separate irrigation as it absorbs necessary moisture directly from the surrounding air.\n\n3. What is the water and protein content in these cactus leaves?\nThe leaves contain up to 90 percent water and approximately 22 percent protein content.\n\n4. Is this cactus safe for livestock consumption?\nYes, the plant is completely free of thorns and serves as a highly digestible and nutritious green fodder option for animals.\n\n5. How is it planted on barren land?\nThe cultivation process involves planting one-third of a single cactus leaf directly into the soil.",
  "url": "https://trendkia.com/en/business/pali-ke-vaijnanikon-ka-kamala-kama-pani-men-bina-kanton-vala-kaiktasa-banega-maveshiyon-ka-hara-chara-27804",
  "category": "Business",
  "publishedAt": "2026-09-04",
  "tags": [
    "livestock fodder",
    "cactus farming",
    "Pali agriculture",
    "CAZRI",
    "dairy farming",
    "drought management"
  ],
  "language": "en",
  "site": "TrendKia"
}