Source: thehindu.com
A recent study on dairying by self-help groups (SHGs) and non-self-help groups in Kannur and Kasaragod districts has found that non- self-help group members are getting more income through dairying than the others.
The study was conducted by the Directorate of Entrepreneurship of Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (KVASU).
Five each SHGs and non-SHGs with minimum of 10 members from each block, including Nileswar and Kanhangad blocks from Kasaragod and Payyanur, Kannur, Koothuparamba and Thalassery blocks from Kannur district, were selected for further study through well structured interviews.
Majority of the non-SHG members consider dairying as their means of livelihood. But SHG group members have other sources of income. Majority of the respondents in both groups own land below 25 cents and female members in their families are involved in dairy business.
The study reveals that even though SHG members are educated, , the non-SHG members have more knowledge and skill in select areas. However, SHG members could sell more value-added milk products than non-SHG members.
Most of the non-SHG members sell milk at cooperative societies and are getting around Rs.30 per litre. Daily average milk production in both groups ranges from 5 to 15 litres a day. Both groups say an increase in the cost of cattle feed reduces their profit margin. Non-SHG members of Kanhangad and SHG members of Payyannur earn more income when compared to farmers of other blocks.
“There is considerable difference between both groups in income, production, consumption and marketed surplus of milk,” says T.P. Sethumadhavan, Principal Investigator of the project. Facilitating more linkages with banks, research institutions, milk unions and stakeholder departments will ensure sustainability among SHG and non-SHG groups, Dr. Sethumadhavan who is also the Director of Entrepreneurship of KVASU, adds. The second phase of the study has been commenced in Malappuram, Wayanad and Kozhikode districts.
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