Technological Gap Analysis: A Case Study of Anand, Gujarat

Background: Indian Dairy Industry is vital to the growth of rural economy of India and employing good dairy farming practices is a sustainable approach to achieving this goal. Good dairy farming practices, according to FAO, are about implementation of effective and suitable practices on dairy farms so that the intended use of dairy products and by-products could be achieved while ensuring the farm business remains economically viable. The aim of the present study was to analyze the technological gap in adoption of good dairy farming practices among dairy farmers. Methods: Anand district was selected purposively. For the estimation of technological gap, six major components of dairy farming viz, animal health, hygienic milking, animal nutrition, animal welfare, environmental and socio-economic management practices of animals were used. Result: The study results indicate that nearly three-fifths of the respondents exhibited a medium level of overall technological gap in good dairy farming practices, followed by 27 per cent of respondents showing a low level of technological gap. Comprehensive awareness and training programs should be crafted to educate farmers about the importance and implementation of effective dairy farming practices, with a focus on animal health, hygienic milking, nutrition, welfare, environmental management and socio-economic aspects. Strengthening of extension services, financial incentives and formulation of regulatory frameworks is crucial in bridging the technological gap in good dairy farming practices.