The Compound Livestock Feed Manufacturers Association of India (CLFMA) recently hosted the India-Sri Lanka Livestock Meet in collaboration with key institutions from Sri Lanka. This two-day event aimed to start formal discussions on important topics such as livestock health, feed innovation, and policy alignment. The meet was designed to encourage cooperation between both countries to improve their livestock industries.
With over 250 members, CLFMA is a key player in the livestock sector. It includes feed manufacturers, poultry, dairy, aquaculture businesses, and veterinary services. It has been a voice for livestock farmers and has strong ties with government bodies and educational institutions.
The meet was held at Hotel Leela in Mumbai on September 30 and October 1. The main theme was “Changing Dynamics of Indian Animal Agriculture.” This theme was relevant as the livestock industry in India is undergoing significant changes, influenced by economic growth and demographic shifts. Over 450 participants attended the symposium, including industry leaders, researchers, and government officials.
Suresh Deora, the Convenor and Secretary of CLFMA, welcomed the chief guest, Shri Purshottam Rupala. Rupala, who is the Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, has been instrumental in developing welfare schemes for farmers. In his speech, he highlighted the government’s focus on the livestock sector. He encouraged innovation and collaboration to improve the industry.
Rupala also discussed the importance of waste management, suggesting strategies to convert waste from livestock into valuable resources. He mentioned that the government is exploring public-private partnerships to enhance animal health services.
The event featured various sessions, including discussions on technology and data analytics. Experts shared insights on the rising prices of feed ingredients, which have been a challenge for farmers. There was a strong emphasis on the need for data-driven solutions to tackle these issues.
In one session, experts discussed the future of animal protein consumption. They projected a fourfold increase in demand by 2047. This shift in consumer preferences presents both challenges and opportunities for the livestock sector. Participants were urged to adopt sustainable practices to meet this growing demand.
The symposium also included an award ceremony to recognize contributions to the livestock sector. Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to Er. Anand Menon and Dr. Rudra Nath Chatterjee for their significant work in advancing animal agriculture in India.
Balram Singh Yadav, Managing Director of Godrej Agrovet, presented data showing the growth in the industry. He noted a compound annual growth rate of 7.5% this year, indicating a bright future for livestock farming. His optimism reflects the industry’s potential to significantly contribute to India’s agricultural GDP in the coming years.
The discussions also addressed the importance of branding and customer experience in the livestock sector. Industry leaders emphasized the need for innovation in marketing and product development to cater to the changing preferences of consumers.
In conclusion, the India-Sri Lanka Livestock Meet marked a significant milestone in enhancing cooperation between the two countries. The collaborative efforts aim to strengthen the livestock sector and improve the livelihoods of farmers. With strong government support and active participation from industry stakeholders, the future looks promising for the livestock industry in both India and Sri Lanka.
