Effect of strategic supplementation on the performance of kids under semi-intensive and intesnsive system

The effect of strategic supplementation with concentrate (Maize and deoiled groundnut cake) alone (C), or C along with groundnut haulms (GH), dry leaf meal of Leucaena leucocephala (LL), Sesbania grandiflora (SG), Gliricidia maculata (GM) or Ficus bangalensis (FB) on the performance of male kids maintained on 6–8 h/d browsing (semi-intensive system, SIS) or stall fed on NB-21 green forage (intensive system, IS). The overall nutrient digestibility was improved in legume leaf meal supplemented male kids (LL, SG or GM) than in both semi-intensive as well as intensive systems. Irrespective of treatments, the digestibility of CP (P 0.05) and cost of feed (Rs.)/kg gain varied (P<0.01) among supplements and the values were optimum in SG supplemented group under both the systems of management. It was concluded that, supplementation of locally available roughage resources particularly Sesbania leaf meal along with small quantities of concentrate was economical than supplementation with concentrate alone for sustainable and economically viable goat production, particularly in semi-intensive management system.