Which of the following factors is identified as a primary cause for the decline in milk yield in buffaloes during summer months in the trans-Gangetic plains?

High temperature-humidity index and potential evapotranspiration

Lack of availability of high-protein synthetic feed

Increased metabolic heat production in indigenous breeds

Excessive rainfall during the winter season

Why are indigenous cattle breeds like Sahiwal and Hariana considered more resilient to heat stress compared to cross-bred cattle?

They possess traits such as loose skin, efficient sweating, and lower metabolic heat production

They are exclusively fed on drought-resistant fodder varieties

They have a higher density of sweat glands compared to buffaloes

They have a higher metabolic rate that generates more internal cooling

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6 July 2026

Climate change impact on milk production

The topic provides specific data and policy recommendations regarding the impact of climate change on the dairy sector, which is a critical component of Indian agriculture and food security.

Notes

A study published in Scientific Reports indicates a significant decline in bovine milk production in India's trans-Gangetic plains due to climate change.
High temperatures (over 38°C) combined with high humidity (over 70%) during July and August significantly reduce milk yields.
Buffaloes are particularly vulnerable to heat stress due to their dark skin and fewer sweat glands; potential evapotranspiration reduces their yield by ~1.4 litres/day.
Cross-bred cattle show significant productivity declines during heatwaves, whereas indigenous breeds like Sahiwal and Hariana show higher resilience.
Heat stress forces livestock to divert energy from milk production to thermoregulation, causing a 20-30% decline in yield.
Stress hormones and elevated cortisol levels impair milk ejection and can lead to increased livestock mortality.
Climate change impacts the dairy system by reducing fodder quality/availability, increasing water scarcity, and raising disease/pest prevalence.
India currently loses 3.2 million tonnes of milk annually due to climate stressors, with projected losses of 15 million tonnes by the 2050s.
The Lancet estimates climate-induced temperature rise could reduce Indian milk production by 25% by 2085.
Adaptive strategies identified include wallowing ponds, agroforestry, shed management, and the use of sprinklers/foggers.
Experts recommend integrating potential evapotranspiration and temperature-humidity index data into early warning systems.
Policy recommendations include prioritizing thermo-tolerant breeding programs using Bos indicus traits and in-situ conservation of indigenous breeds.

Questions

Examine the impact of climate change on livestock productivity in India and discuss the physiological mechanisms through which heat stress affects milk yield. 150 words

Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min

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Climate change poses a significant threat to India's dairy sector, particularly for smallholder farmers. Discuss the challenges faced by the industry and suggest a strategic framework for building climate-resilient livestock management in India. 250 words

Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min

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Prelims

Which of the following factors is identified as a primary cause for the decline in milk yield in buffaloes during summer months in the trans-Gangetic plains?

Why are indigenous cattle breeds like Sahiwal and Hariana considered more resilient to heat stress compared to cross-bred cattle?

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

Milk production in Gangetic plains has nosedived due to climate change

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-07-06/climate-change-impact-on-milk-production