Lopburi: The Department of Livestock Development has launched a new initiative aimed at producing high-quality roughage to alleviate the financial burden on small-scale livestock farmers. Mr. Itthi Sirilatayakorn, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, led the inauguration of the High-Quality Roughage Production Project at the Beef Cattle Research and Development Center in Lam Sonthi District, Lopburi Province. He was accompanied by Mr. Somchuan Rattanamangkalanon, Director-General of the Department of Livestock Development, who discussed the escalating costs of animal feed, a significant expense in animal production. Small-scale farmers, who rely heavily on external production factors, suffer from fluctuating costs due to changing market conditions and lack the robust production and competitive capabilities to succeed in their farming endeavors.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Itthi emphasized the importance of agriculture in the national economy, noting that over 40 percent of Thailand’s popul
ation is engaged in the sector. He stated that the government is committed to enhancing the agricultural sector through policies and measures introduced by the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, under the guidance of Prof. Narumon Pinyosinwat. These measures aim to boost farmers’ incomes by focusing on a “Market-led, Innovation-enhanced Income” approach, which encompasses everything from initial production to processing and exporting. The newly launched project integrates the efforts of government bodies, private entities, and related agencies to support the cultivation of high-quality animal feed crops, which will be sold to small-scale farmers.
Dr. Somchuan elaborated on the department’s plans to support farmers affected by rising domestic animal feed prices. The strategy involves cultivating high-quality feed crops such as corn, sorghum, cassava, grasses, and animal feed beans within the department’s planting areas. This initiative aims to benefit farmers, particularly those raising ruminants like
dairy cows, beef cattle, goats, sheep, and buffalo, who face increased production costs and a shortage of quality roughage. The project is set to be implemented across 11 Animal Research and Breeding Centers, serving as a pilot program to assist small-scale farmers.
The event featured various activities, including an exhibition showcasing new hybrid corn varieties for fresh corn and silage corn production, demonstrations of complete animal feed preparation, and innovative animal food storage techniques using plastic grass balers. Participants also received academic insights into developing technology and innovation for sustainable roughage production. A standout feature was the introduction of an intelligent water system for managing animal feed plots, enhancing feed security, and the production of Corn Silage using balers wrapped in plastic.
Farmers interested in participating in the high-quality roughage production project can reach out to the Animal Research and Breeding Centers involved or contact the A
nimal Breeding Development Office for more information at 0-2501-3142 ext. 111-112.
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