Vijayapura: Once known for recurring droughts, Vijayapura district is witnessing a quiet dairy revolution as improved irrigation and scientific cattle-rearing practices help farmers significantly boost their incomes. Under the ‘Ksheera’ project, around 150 farmers have undergone six months of training aimed at doubling milk production from their existing cattle.The initiative, implemented by Krishi Kalpa Foundation and Akshayakalpa Foundation, covers eight villages — Nidoni, Nagaral, Kumathe, Jalageri, Babanagar, Arjunagi, Yakkundi and Dhokalewadi.CM Patil, CEO of Bengaluru-based Krishi Kalpa Foundation, told TOI that the project was launched after improved water availability created opportunities to strengthen dairy farming in the region. “Based on the suggestion of BLDE’s Basanagouda M Patil, we selected 150 farmers already engaged in dairy activities with at least four cows and a minimum of one acre of land. Scientific training began in January this year. We introduced nutritious mixed fodder and improved cattle-management practices. Akshayakalpa has been our knowledge partner, while six trained staff from project villages are monitoring implementation,” he said.Basanagouda M Patil, chancellor of BLDE Deemed University, said the university provided a grant of Rs 50 lakh for the pilot initiative in Babaleshwar and Tikota taluks. “Our goal was to ensure farmers earn incomes comparable to salaried professionals in cities. We have also established a research and development centre on 11 acres at Nidoni and will continue financial support for four more years,” he said.Dr Mahantesh Biradar, PRO of BLDE University, said the idea emerged after a visit to Akshayakalpa Farm in Tiptur. “Many farmers who had moved away from cattle rearing are now returning to it as a viable source of income,” he said.Nidoni Viraktamath seer Siddalinga Swamiji said the project has changed farmers’ perceptions of dairy farming. “They now understand the importance of scientific methods and proper cattle care,” he said.Farmers Mahadevi Konnur, Prashant Ganiger and Shrishail Ganiger said improved cattle sheds and scientific management have nearly doubled milk production. “What was once a supplementary income is now becoming our main source of livelihood,” they said.
