Saurashtra’s Maldharis Face Fodder Crisis Amid Deficient Rainfall; Ranjit Mundhawa Seeks Urgent Relief Package

The Maldhari community and cattle herders across several districts of Saurashtra are facing a growing livelihood crisis amid deficient rainfall, with shortages of fodder and drinking water putting their livestock at risk.

The Maldhari Community leader Ranjit Mundhawa has urged the Gujarat government to announce an immediate relief package for Maldharis and families dependent on animal husbandry, warning that urgent intervention is needed to protect livestock and support affected communities.

Fodder Prices Add to Cattle Herders’ Distress

Low rainfall has triggered a shortage of fodder and drinking water in several parts of Saurashtra, including Rajkot. With fodder prices rising, many livestock owners are finding it increasingly difficult to feed and maintain their animals.

The crisis has also placed a financial burden on families whose livelihoods depend on cattle rearing. Some members of the Maldhari community have reportedly been forced to migrate with their livestock in search of resources to sustain their animals.

Demand for Subsidised Fodder and Cattle Camps

Mundhawa has called on the state government to announce a special financial relief package for the affected Maldhari community and other families dependent on animal husbandry.

He has also urged municipal corporations, district panchayats and taluka panchayats to ensure that sufficient fodder is made available to needy cattle herders at concessional rates.

The demands include the immediate establishment of cattle camps in affected areas, where livestock can receive fodder, drinking water and essential veterinary care.

Water Tankers Sought for Affected Villages

To address the drinking water shortage, Mundhawa has called for alternative arrangements, including the deployment of water tankers in villages and other areas where water for livestock is scarce.

The demands come as cattle herders struggle to cope with the effects of deficient rainfall and rising animal-rearing costs. The appeal calls for swift government intervention to protect livestock and prevent further distress among families dependent on animal husbandry.