An analysis of knowledge, attitude and practice gaps in scientific buffalo husbandry

Abstract

Buffalo husbandry remains vital to India’s dairy sector, yet adoption gaps hinder productivity. This study assesses knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among 380 buffalo farmers in India, revealing critical disparities. While awareness was relatively high in key areas—heat detection (79.4%), mastitis identification (77.4%), and balanced feed (77.9%)—practice rates lagged severely (32.9–44.7%), with the widest gap in silage-making (71.5% awareness vs. 32.9% adoption, a 38.6-point deficit). Cluster analysis identified five farmer segments, highlighting adoption disparities: smallholders (36.8% of the sample) practised only 25% of techniques despite moderate knowledge, while commercial farmers (7.9%) achieved 90.5% adoption. Chi-square tests confirmed education (OR=3.4, p < 0.001) and herd size (OR=2.4, p < 0.01) as the strongest KAP predictors, with logistic regression underscoring income’s pivotal role (OR=4.3 for practices). In order to bridge gaps, the study proposes three strategies: (1) targeted training for smallholders through farmer groups, (2) subsidized input bundles (feed, minerals) paired with mobile-based advisories, and (3) market incentives for quality milk to reward adoption. Findings stress the need to replace blanket extension approaches with segmented interventions addressing structural barriers (credit, vet access) and attitudinal resistance (silage scepticism, vaccine hesitancy). Policy action should prioritize doubling frontline extension staff and integrating cooperatives with digital tools to scale solutions.