Climate change is emerging as a major threat to dairy production in Haryana, with buffaloes identified as the most vulnerable livestock species, according to a recent ICAR–National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) study published in Scientific Reports. The research, based on 15 years (2004–2019) of data collected from 1,148 villages, found that high temperatures above 38°C combined with relative humidity exceeding 70% during July and August significantly reduce milk production and yield across buffaloes, crossbred cattle and indigenous cattle.
Buffaloes experience the greatest impact, with milk yield declining by 1.4 litres per animal per day for every unit increase in potential evapotranspiration (PET), a key indicator of heat stress. The study estimates that climate-induced heat stress currently causes an annual milk production loss of 3.2 million tonnes, resulting in an economic loss of approximately ₹2,661 crore, with losses projected to rise to 15 million tonnes by the 2050s if climate trends continue.
Researchers found that indigenous breeds such as Sahiwal and Hariana demonstrate greater resilience to rising temperatures due to their superior heat tolerance, while buffaloes are more susceptible because of their darker skin and fewer sweat glands. The findings underscore the urgent need for climate-resilient breeding programmes, improved heat stress management, better fodder planning and adaptive dairy farming practices to safeguard India’s milk production in the face of increasing climate variability. (ResearchGate)
Source: Dairynews7x7 24 July, 2026 Read full Story here
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