The intense summer heat in Tamil Nadu has caused a significant reduction in milk production due to heat stress in cattle, particularly buffaloes and exotic and cross-breed milch cows. As a result, the daily milk procurement by Aavin, the state's dairy cooperative, has decreased by five lakh liters in the past ten days, dropping from an average of 30-31 lakh liters in March to 25 lakh liters since April 1. Although Aavin's Managing Director S Vineeth stated that the current procurement is only marginally lower compared to the same period last year, there is concern that the situation could worsen, potentially affecting the production of dairy products like ice cream and milk sweets.
The decrease in milk yield is attributed to the heat wave, with temperatures in areas like Dharmapuri and Tiruchy rising by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius, affecting the milk production capacity of cattle. Aavin is attempting to manage the shortfall by using milk powder reserves and procuring ghee to enhance the fat content in milk, ensuring the supply remains stable for consumers. The reliance on exotic breeds like Jersey and Holstein Friesian cows, known for their higher milk production but lower heat tolerance compared to native breeds, exacerbates the issue.
The impact of the heat wave on milk production extends beyond Aavin to private dairies across the state, with a noticeable decline in milk output. The heat stress is particularly challenging for buffaloes, used for producing rich milk products, due to their limited ability to regulate body temperature. The situation highlights broader concerns within the dairy industry, including the need for better veterinary support for farmers, as the availability of veterinarians has decreased over the years, adding financial strains to dairy operations.