AI Generated Summary
- At a time when many dairy farmers continue to rely on conventional methods and fluctuating market prices, a progressive farmer from SAS Nagar has demonstrated how scientific livestock management, direct marketing and value addition can transform dairy farming into a profitable business.
- Balbir Singh Khadda, Deputy Director, KVK, SAS Nagar, said Fateh Singh’s sustained focus on scientific herd improvement and selective breeding has resulted in continuous genetic advancement, making his farm a model for progressive dairy farming in Punjab.
- 5 litres of milk per day, while a breeding bull named Samar has earned a reputation for passing on desirable genetic traits to future generations.
At a time when many dairy farmers continue to rely on conventional methods and fluctuating market prices, a progressive farmer from SAS Nagar has demonstrated how scientific livestock management, direct marketing and value addition can transform dairy farming into a profitable business.
Fateh Singh, 42, of Chhat village, has built one of the region’s notable dairy enterprises by combining modern breeding practices with an entrepreneurial approach. Living on his farm, he manages 10 acres of his own land along with nearly 200 acres taken on lease to support fodder production and livestock management.
His dairy venture began in 2016 with a modest herd of 50 animals, including 40 buffaloes and 10 cows. Like many farmers, he initially sold milk through middlemen. However, seeking better returns and greater control over quality, he changed course in 2020 by supplying milk directly to households in Zirakpur and Panchkula.
The decision not only improved his earnings but also helped establish a loyal customer base that valued fresh and unadulterated milk.
A key factor behind the farm’s rapid expansion has been its emphasis on scientific breeding. Working closely with experts from the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), SAS Nagar, Fateh Singh adopted systematic breeding practices aimed at preventing inbreeding while improving milk production and animal health. Detailed breeding records, careful selection of superior animals and planned mating strategies have enabled the farm to steadily enhance the genetic quality of its herd.
Unlike many commercial dairies that frequently purchase livestock, Fateh Singh has developed his herd largely through continuous on-farm breeding. By 2021, the number of animals on the farm had increased to around 300.
Among the herd is a buffalo named Janvi, recognised for producing nearly 26.5 litres of milk per day, while a breeding bull named Samar has earned a reputation for passing on desirable genetic traits to future generations.
Recognising the importance of increasing farmers’ share of consumer spending, Fateh Singh diversified into dairy processing in 2021 by establishing Samar Sweet and Bakery Shop. The venture produces paneer, khoa, curd, lassi and desi ghee, alongside traditional sweets such as gulab jamun and rasgulla.
The farm now produces nearly 10 quintals of milk every day. Roughly half of the daily output is processed into value-added products, while the remaining milk is marketed directly to consumers, creating multiple sources of income.
KVK experts have also guided the farmer in adopting modern dairy management practices, including selecting animals with desirable body traits such as udder shape and teat size to facilitate future mechanised milking. According to officials, these improvements are helping prepare the herd for greater efficiency through automation.
Balbir Singh Khadda, Deputy Director, KVK, SAS Nagar, said Fateh Singh’s sustained focus on scientific herd improvement and selective breeding has resulted in continuous genetic advancement, making his farm a model for progressive dairy farming in Punjab.
KVK expert R.S. Grewal said institutions such as Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University continue to encourage progressive livestock farmers whose innovations contribute significantly to the development of the dairy sector.
Acknowledging his achievements, Fateh Singh was recently honoured with the Chief Minister’s Award during the Kisan Mela organised by Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana.
KVK expert Komal described his journey as an example of how scientific knowledge, innovation and market-oriented thinking can make dairy farming both sustainable and financially rewarding. She said his success offers valuable lessons for farmers looking to improve profitability through better genetics, direct consumer engagement and value addition.
