A Study on Milking Practices Among Dairy Owners in A Rural Community of Singur Block, Hooghly District, West Bengal, India

Abstract

Majority of India`s economy is based on Agriculture and it accounts for 18% of India`s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). India is the largest milk producer and ranks second in milk production in the world. Even though India ranks first place in cattle and buffalo population, it stands second in milk production. One of the reasons for less milk production would be lack of knowledge and hygienic milking practices among the dairy owners and the milkmen. The objective of the study is to assess the extent of knowledge and practices on clean milk production among livestock owners and milkmen in Singur. Using sample size calculation formula, 100 respondents were interviewed with a pre tested questionnaire. The data were analyzed using simple statistical procedures. The study revealed that majority of the respondents (70%) were of middle age (35-50yrs), having education qualification up to Secondary level (84%). Among the respondents, 77% were small holder dairy farmers having herd size up to 3 cows. More than 60% follow stripping technique but practise complete milking of udder. None of the respondents followed the dry cow therapy and checked for abnormality in first strip of milk. A major proportion of the respondents (88%) do not have knowledge on milk borne zoonoses which is alarming. In conclusion, it is recommended that awareness needs to be created among dairy farmers regarding clean milk production with emphasis on the risks associated with people not following hygienic practices.