Question

‘Dairy farming is practiced mainly near urban and industrial centres.’ Justify the statement with examples.

Hint:

Dairy farming is successful near urban and industrial centers because of the high demand for fresh products, easy transportation, and the availability of necessary services.

Answer 1

Dairy farming is practiced near urban and industrial centers for several reasons:

• Proximity to Markets: Dairy products such as milk, butter, and cheese have a limited shelf life, making it important for dairy farms to be close to urban centers where the demand for these products is high. For example, dairy farms in areas around Mumbai and Delhi supply milk to large urban populations.
  
• Availability of Transport: Urban areas are well-connected with transportation networks, making it easier to transport milk and other dairy products. The presence of good road and rail networks ensures that the milk reaches the cities quickly and efficiently. This is why dairy farming is common in areas like Anand in Gujarat, known for its dairy cooperative, Amul.
  
• Access to Feed and Veterinary Services: Urban and industrial centers provide access to quality feed and veterinary services, ensuring the health of dairy animals. The proximity to these services encourages dairy farming. For instance, dairy farms near Pune benefit from the availability of high-quality feed and modern veterinary practices.

Thus, dairy farming thrives near urban centers due to the high demand, easy transport, and access to services.