Why are we called Shunya?

Shunya means “nothingness” –  and everything else starts from this nothingness. 

The concept of Shunya is truly Indian and clearly defined first in arithmetic by Brahmagupt, Shunya is the foundation of modern mathematics and scientific thinking. 

It is the cornerstone of everything digital that is impacting our lives. You might know Shunya as Zero – as referred to in English. 

Shunya does not have a character or value of its own, but adds tremendous value and character to anything that it gets added to – in our case to the lives our the farmer and his farm animals and of course to our environment. 

For more info visit www.shunya.live or connect with me. 

Protein in livestock feed.

Protein is crucial in livestock feed because it plays a fundamental role in supporting various physiological functions and overall health in animals. 

Here are some key reasons why protein is important in livestock feed:

Shunya's High Protein Fodder

1. Growth and Development: Protein is essential for proper growth and development in animals, especially in young and growing animals. Adequate protein intake is necessary to support the formation of tissues, muscles, bones, and organs.
2. Body Maintenance and Repair: Proteins are the building blocks of body tissues and are required for the repair and maintenance of cells and tissues. Animals constantly undergo wear and tear, and protein is essential for the renewal of damaged tissues.
3. Enzymes and Hormones: Proteins serve as enzymes and hormones in the body, regulating various biochemical processes. Enzymes are essential for digestion, nutrient absorption, and other metabolic activities, while hormones play a role in physiological processes such as reproduction and growth.
4. Immune Function: Protein is a key component of the immune system. It helps in the production of antibodies and immune cells, which defend the body against pathogens and diseases.
5. Milk Production: In dairy animals, protein is vital for milk production. Lactating animals require higher protein levels to support the synthesis of milk components.
6. Reproduction: Adequate protein intake is critical for reproductive performance in both males and females. It influences fertility, conception rates, and the overall reproductive health of the animals.
7. Wool, Hair, and Feather Production: Protein is necessary for the synthesis of wool in sheep, hair in goats, and feathers in poultry. It ensures the proper growth and quality of these important products.
8. Energy Source: Although carbohydrates and fats are the primary energy sources, in times of low energy availability, the body can break down protein to produce energy. However, this is not an efficient process and can lead to protein deficiency if prolonged.
9. Body Condition: Protein intake is linked to body condition in animals. Proper protein levels help maintain healthy body weight and muscle mass.
10. Feed Efficiency: Animals with adequate protein intake tend to have better feed efficiency, meaning they convert feed into body mass more effectively.

It is important to note that the protein requirements for different livestock species, production stages, and purposes can vary. Properly balanced feed rations should be formulated to meet the specific protein needs of each type of animal to ensure optimal growth, reproduction, and overall performance. Additionally, the quality of protein, as determined by its amino acid profile, is also crucial to support the animal's specific needs. Shunya's feed is high on protein and a possible solution. 

Animal Fodder Deficit in India - a real problem

As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, India has faced challenges in meeting the demand for quality fodder. The availability and quality of fodder can vary across different regions of the country, and several factors contribute to the fodder deficit:

Green Fodder in Fields

1. Inadequate Cultivated Land: India has limited arable land, and a significant portion is
dedicated to food crops. As a result, the land available for fodder cultivation might be insufficient to meet the demand.

2. Dependence on Rainfed Agriculture: A large part of India's agriculture is rainfed, making fodder cultivation heavily reliant on monsoon rains. Irregular rainfall patterns can lead to fluctuations in fodder production.

3. Seasonal Variation: Fodder production is often affected by seasonal changes, with shortages being more common during the dry seasons.

4. Lack of Knowledge and Awareness: Many farmers may not be fully aware of the benefits of high-quality fodder or may lack the knowledge and resources to produce it.

5. Fodder Management Practices: Improper management and storage of fodder can lead to spoilage and nutrient losses, affecting its quality.

6. Competition for Resources: The competition for resources like water and land between fodder production and food crops can limit the availability and quality of fodder.

7. Climate Change: Climate change impacts, such as unpredictable weather patterns and extreme events like droughts, can further exacerbate fodder deficits.

It's worth noting that the government of India and various non-governmental organizations have been working to address these challenges and promote better fodder management practices. Initiatives like improved seeds for fodder crops, promotion of hydroponic fodder systems, and awareness campaigns on fodder conservation and management have been undertaken to bridge the gap between demand and supply.