Abstract :
[en] This abstract illustrates a perspective inspired by discussions held during the
recent FAO Regional Forum on Innovations for Sustainable Livestock
Transformation in Asia and the Pacific. Enhancing dairy production in developing
countries necessitates a strategic, phased approach that begins with simple,
cost-effective data recording practices and gradually integrates advanced
technologies. This progression has the advantage of maximizing farmers'
engagement and comprehension of the benefits while minimizing their initial
financial investment.The first step involves both a robust animal identification
system, and the systematic recording of individual milk yield per cow. This
practice, requiring no expensive equipment, is a crucial starting point for improving
herd management and initiating selective breeding programs. By regularly
monitoring milk production, farmers can identify high-performing animals, which
enables targeted genetic selection and accelerates long-term improvements in
productivity, herd resilience, and profitability. Additionally, regular milk yield data
facilitates early detection of management issues such as nutritional imbalances or
diseases, supporting more effective, timely decision-making.Once farmers have
recognized the benefits of data-driven management, the introduction of advanced
technologies becomes feasible. Mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy, for example,
offers a low-cost yet powerful method to analyze milk composition. By utilizing MIR
analysis, farmers gain access to a broad range of phenotypes, which supports
refined breeding strategies, proactive health monitoring, improved milk quality
control, and allowed an early identification of metabolic disorders, reproductive
inefficiencies, and other production-related challenges.Implementing this stepwise
approach can reduce resistance to technological innovation by demonstrating
immediate, tangible benefits. Awareness campaigns, farmer training programs,
and cooperative support networks are also essential to help farmers progress
through each stage of this transformation. In addition, standardized data collection
and analysis protocols ensure that the data generated are reliable, comparable,
and actionable across various contexts. To further support this process, financial
and technical assistance is critical. Subsidized technologies, access to cooperative
funding mechanisms, and expert advisory services can ease resource constraints
for farmers. Continuous technical support also helps maintain equipment and
ensures proper data management and interpretation.This phased strategy not only
fosters sustainable dairy production but also builds farmers' long-term trust in
data-driven innovations. Through coordinated efforts involving governments,
research institutions, non-governmental organizations, and private stakeholders,
the dairy sector in developing countries can enhance productivity, efficiency, and
economic stability, contributing to a resilient and sustainable agricultural landscape.
