DTC Nepal is organizing exchange and training programs with the Livestock and Dairy Farming network on challenges related to sustainable dairy farming and milk quality. An important focus is on the improvement of milk quality by improving cattle health and reducing the use of antibiotics and other pharmaceuticals.
The exchanges and training include proof of concept of practices, including:
- Good animal management strategies: feeding, water provision, housing, general care and animal treatment, hygiene, grassland management
- Breeding of robust animals well adapted to local conditions through (1) strategic three-way cross breeding programs, or (2) local breeds improvement programs
- Safe and effective use of medicinal plants for prevention and cure of common cattle diseases. Set up local herbal gardens, inventory of medicinal plants in the local area.
- Training on milk quality control on chemical residues
- How to improve farm income through reduced costs and stimulating direct marketing initiatives, for example with local breed products.
- Pilots with these strategies have been done in India, Ethiopia and the Netherlands, showing excellent results and proof of concept. Exchanges to these countries can be organized.