ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF MILK PRODUCTION IN DISTRICT OKARA

Abstract

This study is based on a sample field survey of subsistent, semi-commercial and commercial livestock farmers in Okara district of the Punjab, Pakistan. The respondents were selected by stratified random sampling technique. The study revealed that there was variation in the lactation period across various farm categories. A wide t1uctuation, both within and across various enterprises occurred in the summer and winter milk yield. Unquestionably, the per litre cost of milk production of commercial farmers .vas lowest and that of the subsistent operator was the highest. On the other hand, commercial farmers were able to sell their milk at prices higher than the other two categories. Consequently, they registered higher sale receipts per buffalo. The benefit cost ratio varied inversely with the operational size of milk production unit. The findings of this study, when viewed in the context of other studies, imply that there had been little or no shift in the functional and size distribution of cost structure over time. It is necessary to take steps to improve milk production to bridge the existing gap in the demand and supply of milk.