Farming and Animal Husbandry: The Need to Return to Traditional Methods

 

Farming and Animal Husbandry: The Need to Return to Traditional Methods

For centuries, India has had an integrated tradition of farming and animal husbandry based on the philosophy of maintaining harmony with nature. Although the yield from this system was relatively lower, it was far more beneficial in terms of health.

In the present era, animal husbandry has become a significant part of our economy and an important source of livelihood for rural communities. In recent years, the growing mechanization of agriculture and the increased use of toxic chemicals have deeply impacted the livestock sector as well.

Comparative studies have shown that products obtained from organic animal husbandry are more suitable from a health perspective. However, there has been a rampant rise in the use of genetically modified seeds, artificial fragrances, and chemical dyes in recent times. These not only affect the quality of food but also have adverse effects on animal husbandry and related industries.

After independence, the use of chemical fertilizers in agriculture began on a large scale. While this led to an increase in production, it gradually started to degrade soil fertility. To boost fertility, even more chemical fertilizers and pesticides were used, which further deteriorated soil quality. The excessive use of chemical pesticides has also negatively impacted health.

Due to the overuse of chemicals and pesticides in agriculture, there has been an increase in physical weakness and life-threatening diseases in both humans and animals. It has been observed that people are developing serious illnesses like cancer at a very young age. Moreover, traces of these chemicals have been found in milk and meat, adversely affecting animal health as well. Additionally, the health of our soil is worsening, posing a threat to the sustainability of agricultural production.

To avoid these serious consequences, it is now essential that we move toward organic farming along with organic animal husbandry. Chemical-free products are not only more beneficial to health but also have a lesser impact on the environment. Organic methods not only improve the quality of production but also help protect natural resources.

To promote organic animal husbandry, large-scale training programs should be organized for farmers so that they can produce high-value organic livestock products at low cost by integrating it with farming.

 

Objectives of Organic Animal Husbandry

Organic animal husbandry and food security have become highly relevant for both humans and animals today. Access to organic food must be a priority for human health and a prosperous life.

Main Objectives:

• Improvement in Production and Quality: To produce high-quality dairy products, meat, and eggs in sufficient quantity through organic animal husbandry.
• Conservation of Soil Fertility: To maintain and stabilize soil fertility through organic farming methods.
• Establishing Natural Balance: To maintain a biological-natural cycle between livestock, agriculture, and the environment, resulting in a pollution-free ecosystem.
• Conservation of Agriculture and Biodiversity: To protect agriculture and biodiversity and maintain balance between the two.
• Protection of Human and Animal Health: To safeguard the health of humans and other living beings through organic livestock practices.
• Preservation of Genetic Diversity: To conserve genetic diversity in animals and allow them to live according to their natural behaviors.
• Use of Recycled and Renewable Resources: To increase the use of organic products and recycled materials.
• Water and Soil Conservation: To promote the conservation of water and soil.
• Encouragement of Livestock Farmers: To encourage livestock farmers to adopt organic methods so that they can earn better profits.

 

Benefits of Organic Animal Husbandry

• Environmental Protection: Organic animal husbandry keeps the environment free from pollution, thereby maintaining its quality.
• Positive Health Effects: Products obtained from organic livestock are free from antibiotics and hormones, helping prevent serious diseases like heart problems, cancer, and diabetes in humans and animals.
• Soil Fertility Preservation: It maintains long-term soil fertility, preserving the quality of the land.
• Efficient Use of Resources: Organic animal husbandry ensures the proper use of natural resources, making it possible to produce high-quality products at a lower cost.
• Economic Benefits: Products from organic animal husbandry fetch higher prices than conventional ones, improving the financial status of farmers.
• Preservation of Traditional Practices: It promotes traditional and organic livestock methods, allowing farmers to produce more valuable products at lower costs.

 

How to Practice Organic Animal Husbandry

1. Use of Organic Feed
   Feed animals only chemical-free, 100% organic fodder, grown using organic seeds and methods.
2. Fodder Preservation
   During the rainy season, when green fodder is abundant; preserve it as hay or silage to ensure year-round availability. Include nutrient-rich supplements like Azolla in their diet.
3. Animal Health Management
   Keep animals in clean, comfortable, and natural surroundings. Provide regular care to keep them healthy and minimize illnesses.
4. Natural Treatment Methods
   In case of illness, prioritize traditional, Ayurvedic, or homeopathic treatments. Use chemical medicines only as a last resort.
5. Farm Certification
   Get your organic farm certified by a recognized organic certification agency. This builds consumer trust and ensures product quality.
6. Natural Habitat Arrangement
   Keep the organic farm separate from conventional ones. Develop natural pastures for animals and plant shade-giving trees to offer a natural living experience.
7. Cleanliness and Pest Control
   Clean the farm regularly using organic methods. Use natural insecticides like neem, basil, and cow urine instead of chemical options.
8. Use of Organic Fertilizers
   Maintain soil fertility using vermicompost, earthworm compost, and other composted organic waste from the farm.
9. Product Processing and Segregation
   Keep organic livestock products separate from non-organic ones. Avoid chemical preservatives or synthetic additives during processing. Use traditional techniques for processing.
10. Product Certification and Marketing
    Get your organic livestock products certified by an authorized agency to label them as "organic." This ensures fair pricing and enhances market credibility.

 

What Not to Do in Organic Animal Husbandry

• Do not use any genetically modified (GM) seeds for fodder production. Only use organic and indigenous seeds.
• Do not use any chemical fertilizers (e.g., urea, DAP) to enhance soil fertility. Use only organic manures.
• Do not treat animals with allopathic medicines or antibiotics. Prefer traditional, Ayurvedic, or homeopathic treatments.
• Avoid using genetically modified vaccines. Use only natural or certified organic vaccine alternatives.
• Do not use chemical or synthetic insecticides for pest control. Ensure the use of Ayurvedic and natural insecticides like neem, basil, and garlic.
• Avoid using chemical herbicides (like glyphosate) for weed control. Use manual weeding or organic methods instead.