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To know the status of trace minerals in buffaloes from various agro-climatic zones of Jammu division, a baseline survey was conducted. A total of 193 buffalo blood and 169 fodder samples offered during various seasons were collected and analyzed. The average values of Cu, Zn, Fe, Mn and Co in buffalo plasma samples were 14.86, 31.27, 56.05, 1.98 and 3.35 µmol/l, respectively. Sub-clinical deficiency of Cu, Zn, Fe and Mn was recorded among 34.42, 3.22, 7.05 and 11.97% buffalo population. Fodder sample analysis revealed wide variation in the level of trace elements among different fodders and also areas. Level of iron in fodders was adequate; however, Cu deficiency was prevalent among corn stover (55.55%), fodder tree leaves (50%) and Pennisatum typhoides (22.22%). Zn deficiency was recorded among Sorgum spp. (68.75%), corn stover (66.66%), wheat straw (82.5%), Pennisatum typhoides (37.5%), tree leaves (33.33%) and Trifolium alexandrium (15.38%). Mn deficiency was recorded among Sorgum spp. (62.5%), corn stover (66.66%), wheat straw (30.76%) and Pennisatum typhoides (44.44%). Study concluded that area specific mineral mixtures need to be supplemented for enhancing the productive and reproductive potential of buffaloes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the socio-economic and the cultural factors responsible for indebtedness among the scheduled castes in Haryana, India. It notes that the respondents' purpose of availing a loan is for productive purposes and the main sources for loan are the landowners or the moneylenders. It states that the low level of income and the high level of investment for productive and consumption are the main causes of indebtedness for any indebted person.