ICAR-CCARI, KVK North Goa Conducts Method Demonstration on Scientific Fodder Conservation through Silage Preparation

ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, North Goa, conducted a method demonstration on silage preparation as an entrepreneurship development program at Sal Village, Bicholim Taluka, North Goa, on April 22, 2026.Dr. S. V. Udharwar, SMS (Animal Science), provided a hands-on demonstration to dairy farmers on scientific silage preparation. He explained the complete process, including selection of maize fodder at the milky to dough stage, proper chaffing size, arrangement of inner and outer liners, layer-wise filling of chaffed maize fodder with salt and silage culture, and thorough compaction to maintain anaerobic conditions.He further demonstrated vacuum removal, proper sealing, storage precautions, and the scientific feeding of silage to cattle and goats for better livestock productivity. He highlighted that silage serves as an excellent alternative during the summer season when green fodder availability becomes limited in Goa.

Mr. Rahul Kumar, SMS (Agronomy), guided the farmers on improved agronomic practices for maize fodder cultivation to ensure higher yield and better fodder quality for silage preparation.A total of 2 tonnes of silage was prepared during the programme. The programme also emphasized the scope of silage making as a viable entrepreneurial activity for farmers, enabling efficient utilization of surplus fodder and ensuring year-round feed availability for livestock.Considering the recurring shortage of green fodder during summer, the demonstration served as a practical model for dairy farmers and encouraged the adoption of scientific fodder conservation practices.A total of 15 farmers, including 14 men and 1 woman, actively participated in the programme and gained practical knowledge through the hands-on demonstration. The farmers expressed satisfaction with the programme and showed keen interest in adopting silage technology on a larger scale.