DEVELOPING PATHWAYS FOR A TRANSITION TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE BUFFALO MILK PRODUCTION SYSTEM IN BANGLADESH

Abstract

The current buffalo milk production system in Bangladesh faces challenges like insufficient animal and farm management, inadequate breeding practices, inefficient milk transportation, and compromised milk safety. Despite sharing similar geographical conditions with neighbouring countries like India, Pakistan, and Nepal, where buffalo milk production thrives, Bangladesh’s buffalo milk yield remains considerably lower. Single item-based solutions might not be very effective in having a better buffalo milk production system. Hence, Reflexive Interactive Design (RIO in Dutch) can deal with the aforementioned challenges to yield a comprehensive solution to the current buffalo milk production system. This study aims to address these constraints and design a new system using RIO. The methodology consists of three cycles of activities – system and actor analysis, structured change, and niche and change. The first two cycles will analyze the buffalo milk production system, and stakeholders set objectives, develop a morphological chart (MC), and generate novel solutions through research and consultations. Then in the last cycle, the solution will be applied to the field condition and see the change. For time constraints, the first two cycles were carried out in this study and four solution concepts were generated, e.g., low-cost, feasible, high milk quality, and high-tech solutions. The "Feasible" concept was chosen for its accessibility to the primary actors. It proposes an intercropping system of Napier Pakchong grass and guava to supply feeds to buffalo. The system incorporates a smartphone to keep records and assist in disease diagnosis. The buffalo udder health will be assessed by the surf field mastitis test (SFMT). Buffalo will be monitored with metallic ear tags. Diseases will be controlled using preventive treatment (e.g., vaccination, anthelmintics). The dry period will be managed by nutritional management. Heat or oestrous will be detected through a bull from the farm. Superior buffalo will be chosen based on their physique, productivity, and pedigree for breeding. Milk quality will be assessed monthly by a Lactoscan device. Milk will be stored in a solar-powered milk cooler (SMC), and then it will be processed through boiling and cream separation. With collaboration among actors, government, extension workers, and non-government organizations (NGOs), RIO can effectively reshape Bangladesh's buffalo milk production system.