Temperature Humidity Index (THI) is a measure that has been used since the early 1990s. It accounts for the combined effects of environmental temperature and relative humidity and is a useful and easy way to assess the risk of heat stress.
Normally THI is used in cattle. Cows can suffer a lot of heat stress with serious consequences on their productivity and welfare. This happens because a large part of the energy deriving from food is used to maintain a constant body temperature and it is therefore not destined for other activities (milk production, growth, pregnancy, etc.).
Current measurements of THI do not really take into account air velocity at cow level, or solar radiation. Hence the question asked
India has a diverse climate, and different regions may experience varying climatic conditions and challenges. Therefore, it is important to adapt and modify existing indices like THI to suit the local conditions and livestock species in India. Researchers and scientists in India have been actively working on developing climate indices that incorporate additional parameters relevant to the Indian context. I suggest to collaborate with GADVASU, Ludhiana for the same.
It would be beneficial for India to develop its own standards and indices that take into account the specific climatic conditions, animal breeds, and management practices prevalent in the country. By doing so, it would be possible to better assess the impact of climate change on Indian livestock and implement appropriate mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Yes absolutely. THI is a vital parameter to assess the animal health in production animals and will play a vital role in Indian Scenario. I believe some of our organized farms might have already put this system in place and might be monitoring THI data along with other important parameters. I am not aware of existing research documenting its impact on climate change in the country.
Further research is required, concerning the main question of the discussion thread. In addition, I agree with Sachin Kumar. He made a good point.
Each breed creates an epigenetic structure to adapt to its original region and comfort zone. For this reason, I think modifications should be made to the temperature-humidity index values determined elsewhere and for another breed.
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