USAID-DRDF DAIRY PROJECT QUARTERLY PROGRESS REPORT FOR APRIL 2013 – JUNE 2013

The project focuses on training dairy farmers and Artificial Insemination Technicians (AITs) in best dairy farm management techniques. Additionally, the project aims to establish Women Livestock Extension Workers (WLEWs) as self-employed entrepreneurs. Training programs for dairy farmers have been implemented, with a total of 948 farmers receiving training in best farm management practices in the second quarter. Among these, 236 farmers received two-day training, 639 farmers received four-day training, and 73 farmers received one month training for farm management. The project has exceeded its targets for training AITs and WLEWs, with 276 AITs and 754 WLEWs successfully completing their respective trainings. The project has achieved income targets for farmers and AITs, with a positive contribution in net incomes of farmers from dairy farming. AITs are earning an average profit of Rs. 4,626 per month, while WLEWs are striving hard to make a market for themselves despite societal challenges. Net incomes of WLEWs in recent months are around Rs. 600 per month. In addition to trainings, awareness campaigns are being launched on best dairy farming practices. During the reporting period, the Communications team launched 10 street theatre shows, a nationwide TV campaign, and a concurrent feedback and monitoring unit was set up to receive queries from farmers. The Dairy Project also participated in the International Conference on Institutions, Growth and Development in Pakistan and the Dawn Agri-Expo held at Lahore Expo Center. The project is also continuing with strict environmental compliance and monitoring in its trainings. An environmental compliance report is provided in annex 3. The project has started construction of a Bio-Gas Plant at village 569 EB, district Vehari, which will be handed over to a local cooperative for operation and maintenance. Financially, the project has made significant progress, with a total estimated USAID amount of $14,018,777 and an amount obligated of $14,018,777 as of June 30, 2013. The project has also leveraged a non-federal amount of $3,407,059. Total project funds expended to date are $8,448,829, with project funds expended during the reporting quarter amounting to $1,705,926. Obligated project funds remaining available are $5,569,948, and project funds allocated for the next quarter are $1,501,975.