Afzaishay Nasal Pages 06-02-12

The project focuses on enhancing the productivity and profitability of smallholder dairy farmers, with a particular emphasis on women-headed households. Initial assessments identified limited access to quality feed, inadequate veterinary care, and lack of market information as primary constraints to dairy development. To address these challenges, the project implemented a range of interventions, including the establishment of dairy cooperatives, provision of training and extension services, and facilitation of market linkages with private sector buyers. The project also supported the development of a dairy feed industry, including the production of high-quality feed concentrates and silage. As a result, smallholder dairy farmers have increased their milk production, with average yields rising by 25% compared to pre-project levels. The project has also focused on improving the health and productivity of dairy animals through the provision of veterinary care and vaccination services. A network of veterinary service providers has been established, offering a range of services, including vaccinations, deworming, and parasite control. This has led to a significant reduction in mortality rates among dairy animals, with a 30% decrease in calf mortality rates reported. In addition to these interventions, the project has also supported the development of a dairy value chain, including the establishment of a dairy processing plant and the development of a range of dairy products, such as cheese and ghee. This has provided smallholder dairy farmers with new market opportunities and improved their income levels. The project has also supported the development of a dairy extension service, which provides training and support to smallholder dairy farmers on best practices in dairy management. The project has been implemented in several districts of Punjab, with a focus on the districts of Lahore, Sheikhupura, and Nankana. The project has been supported by a range of stakeholders, including the Government of Punjab, the private sector, and international development partners. The project is expected to continue until 2025, with a focus on sustaining the gains made and scaling up the project's interventions to reach more smallholder dairy farmers.