Mineral deficiency threatens health of livestock in flood-hit Punjab

In the aftermath of Punjab’s worst floods in decades, livestock health has emerged as a silent casualty. While the deluge damaged homes, crops and infrastructure across over 1,000 villages, veterinary experts now warn of a growing crisis beneath the surface —mineral deficiency in animals that could severely impact dairy productivity and rural livelihoods.

Vivek Sharma and Karamjit Sharma from Punjab Agricultural University’s Krishi Vigyan Kendra emphasised that minerals — often overshadowed by energy and protein in feed formulations — were vital for an animal’s immunity, fertility, digestion and milk yield.

With floodwaters disrupting fodder supply chains, contaminating grazing areas and delaying concentrate preparation, the risk of deficiencies has intensified.

“Animals recovering from stress and exposure during floods are especially vulnerable,” says Sharma. “Without adequate mineral supplementation, we’re seeing reduced milk output, poor appetite and fertility issues.”

Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, has developed an area-specific mineral mixture to address these gaps. Experts recommend its use across categories — from calves to high-yielding cows — to prevent long-term health setbacks.

Experts have urged farmers to prioritise mineral supplementation as part of recovery. Krishi Vigyan Kendras across Punjab are facilitating access to the recommended mixtures.