Harit Dhara, an anti-methanogenic feed supplement, was created by an Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) institute. It is derived from tannin-rich plant sources. Tannins, bitter and astringent chemical substances found in tropical plants have been shown to inhibit or eliminate protozoa from the rumen. This supplement can reduce methane emissions from cattle by 17-20% while simultaneously increasing milk output. This article explains about Harit Dhara which is important for UPSC IAS exam preparation.

What is Harit Dhara?

• The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has created 'Harit Dhara' (HD), an anti-Methanogenic feed supplement.
• Harit Dhara is made from condensed and hydrolysable tannin-rich plant-based sources that are prevalent in the nation.
• It modifies the content of the volatile fatty acids produced by rumen fermentation (together with hydrogen and CO2).
• It costs about Rs 6/kg and should only be offered to animals over three months old with a fully developed rumen.
• When given to cattle and sheep, it reduces methane emissions by 17-20%.
• It also causes increased milk production and body weight growth.

Harit Dhara - Significance

• Fermentation continues, and increased propionic acid synthesis, now in proportion to acetic and butyric acid, supplies much of the energy for lactose (milk sugar) production and body weight gain from Harit Dhara feeding.
• Harit Dhara works by reducing the population of protozoa microorganisms in the rumen, which are responsible for producing hydrogen and making it accessible to the archaea for CO2 reduction to methane.
• Reduces methane production: In India, an average breastfeeding cow or buffalo releases roughly 200 litres of methane per day, whereas young developing heifers emit 85-95 litres and adult sheep emit 20-25 litres. Feeding Harit Dhara can cut them in half.

Conclusion

Cattles in India typically produce 50–100% more methane than their counterparts in industrialised countries who are fed concentrates, silages, and green fodder that are more readily fermentable and digestible. This is because Indian livestock are primarily fed on agricultural residues such as wheat/paddy straw and maize, sorghum, or bajra stover. The Harit Dhara (HD) anti-methanogenic feed additive was created by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), and it can increase milk output while reducing the methane emissions from cattle by 17 to 20%.

FAQs

MCQs

1. What is the main purpose of Harit Dhara?

A) Increase milk production
B) Reduce methane emissions
C) Improve feed quality
D) Enhance animal health

2. Which organization developed Harit Dhara?

A) FAO
B) Ministry of Agriculture
C) ICAR
D) NABARD

3. What percentage of methane emissions can Harit Dhara reduce?

A) 5-10%
B) 10-15%
C) 17-20%
D) 25-30%

4. Which type of animals can benefit from Harit Dhara?

A) Poultry
B) Ruminants
C) Non-ruminants
D) All livestock

5. How is Harit Dhara derived?

A) Tannin-rich plants
B) Synthetic chemicals
C) Mineral supplements
D) Animal by-products

GS Mains Questions and Model Answers

Q1: Evaluate the role of Harit Dhara in addressing environmental concerns in livestock farming.

Answer: Harit Dhara reduces methane emissions from ruminants, contributing to climate change mitigation. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is responsible for significant agricultural emissions. By altering rumen fermentation, Harit Dhara improves livestock productivity and reduces emissions by 17-20%. Its affordability and effectiveness support sustainable farming, aligning with India's environmental goals.

Q2: Discuss the challenges and opportunities in implementing Harit Dhara across India.

Answer: Challenges in implementing Harit Dhara include farmer awareness, training, and acceptance of new practices. However, opportunities lie in its cost-effectiveness, ability to reduce emissions, and increase productivity. With proper government support and integration into programs like the National Livestock Mission, Harit Dhara can revolutionize sustainable livestock farming in India.

Q3: Analyze the significance of research innovations like Harit Dhara in India’s agricultural sector.

Answer: Innovations like Harit Dhara address critical challenges such as methane emissions and low productivity in livestock farming. They align with sustainability goals, enhance farm incomes, and reduce environmental impact. Promoting such innovations requires strong research funding, farmer education, and policy support for widespread adoption.

Previous Year Questions on Environment and Agriculture

1. UPSC CSE Prelims 2022:

Question: Which greenhouse gas is primarily emitted by ruminant livestock?

A) Carbon dioxide
B) Methane
C) Nitrous oxide
D) Sulfur dioxide

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Methane is primarily emitted during the digestion process in ruminants, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.

2. UPSC CSE Mains 2021:

Question: Explain how sustainable livestock practices can contribute to climate change mitigation.

Answer: Sustainable livestock practices like using feed additives (e.g., Harit Dhara) reduce methane emissions, improving energy efficiency. Practices such as rotational grazing and improved animal diets further enhance carbon sequestration and productivity, aligning with global climate action goals.