New Delhi: Two scientists at the Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute (IGFRI) have told Livemint that the country is facing a serious dry fodder shortage, and this could lead to an increase in the price of milk.

"The shortage of between 25% and 90% of the critical livestock input is put down to increased cattle population, low availability of grassland area, stubble burning and use of paddy straw—that would otherwise become fodder— for ethanol production," the newspaper report notes.

The two scientists spoke to Mint anonymously.

Milk prices have already been rising in the country over the last few years as fodder has got more expensive, Mint reported. "On Sunday, the all-India average retail milk price stood at Rs 57.52 a litre against Rs 54.9 during the corresponding period last year," the newspaper reported.

The unavailability of fodder makes a big difference as fodder comprises 70% of the cost of livestock management, according to Mint. "The recentlv estimated deficit in green fodder is 11.24%, and 23.1% in the case of dry fodder," the newspaper stated.

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