Kerala is set to launch a comprehensive insurance scheme benefiting the entire cattle population in the State, said J Chinchurani, the State Dairy Development and Animal Husbandry Minister.

The Centre has approved the scheme. The government has launched many schemes to support the dairy sector and the veterinary ambulance service will be extended to all block panchayats of the State. The government also set aside ₹22 crore for the maintenance of the calves, she said.

Referring to climate change that has been getting extreme in the State, the Minister said heat in summer killed 550 cows in Kerala this year. The government is paying ₹37,500 per cow to the owner even as rising costs of fodder production was creating a crisis for both Milma and Kerala Feeds Ltd, besides the farmers. “We are making efforts to overcome the situation,” she said.

The advent of AI has opened a new chapter in agriculture, particularly in cattle farming. This transformation is not just about efficiency and productivity; it’s about creating a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to farming. In this article, we explore how AI is revolutionising cattle farming, contributing to both healthier cattle and a greener planet.

One of the primary concerns in cattle farming is maintaining the health of the herd. AI-driven technologies are increasingly used for early disease detection and health monitoring. For example, sensors can track vital signs and behaviours, signalling early symptoms of illness. This proactive approach reduces the need for antibiotics, contributing to healthier cattle and reducing antibiotic resistance. According to a study by the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, AI-supported monitoring systems have improved disease detection rates by up to 20 per cent.

The integration of AI in cattle farming has led to several innovative practices