Cow rescue efforts started accelerating
Continuing on-going vedic support
More sheds for sivalingams started
80 Sheds for Sivalingam completed!
31
May
May
Cow rescue efforts started accelerating
Continuing on-going vedic support
More sheds for sivalingams started
15 veda patasala support - Rig, Sama Vedam, Krishna & Shukla Yajur Vedam - following are few from them
Agama Patashala support
Buying material for patasalas like samith etc
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The Indian Gir Cow is considered to be one of the gentler breed of cows from India. Basically a milk giving breed, they are known for their heavy build and docile temperament. This Indian breed originated in the Gir forest region and the surrounding districts of the Saurashtra region of Gujarat. This breed can easily give good competition to the high milk yielding cows like Jersey from the western countries.
The Gir breed loves being with humans. They adore being brushed and caressed.
They are distinctive in appearance, with a large head, a domed forehead, narrow face, long pendulous ears and horns which sweep back and spiral up. Their eyes are hooded and black-pigmented. Their coat colours are varied but generally mottled and consist of red and speckled red/white. Their skins are darkly pigmented with short glossy hair.
They have whip-like tails which can be deadly on the insects. These cows are not susceptible to any infestation and have good general resistance to diseases.
Today, this breed is apparently on the verge of extinction from India. Gujarat is estimated to have only around 3,000 pure breed of cows at present.
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Milk contains approximately 3.5% protein of which 80% are casein proteins and 20% whey proteins. Caseins have been classified as Alpha/Beta/Kapa-Caseins. Whey contains β-lactoglobulin, α-lactalbumin and several minor proteins.
Amino acids play a very important role in our health.Proteins in milk are converted into peptides, which later take the form of amino acids. The amino acid released by A1 protein is called histidine, while the amino acid released by A2 protein is called proline.
BCM-7 is a peptide that when released in our body can lead to indigestion and also many modern day diseases. It is for this reason that A2 Milk has been recommended by health care professionals to be a healthier milk option.
Beta-Casomorphin-7 (BCM-7) is an opioid peptide that is found in both A1 & A2 protein milk. The Proline amino acid formed by A2 milk has a natural property to block this BCM-7 from going into our body. The Histidine amino acid formed by A1 milk, on the other hand does not block this BCM-7, which subsequently enters our body and later dissolves in the blood.
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Vechur is a small-sized, rare breed, originating in the Vechur village in Kottayam district of Kerala and is generally found in the Kottayam-Ernakulam–Alapuzha belt. It is also prevalent in the Kasargod district of Kerala.
The Vechur breed is docile, short, disease-resistant and easy to maintain with low food requirement as compared to other crossbred species. These cattle are intelligent, hearty, clean and adapted to high heat conditions. It has an exceptionally small, manageable size (about the size of a large goat breed), a pleasant disposition and a long, productive life span. The Vechur cattle are resistant to Mastitis (blockage of teats in the udder), foot and mouth diseases, and respiratory infections and require almost no veterinary care.
This breed calves easily. The age at first calving is 36 to 42 months and the calving interval is generally 15 to 16 months. “Infant Mortality” is practically absent in this breed and new born calves are robust and strong. With an average length of 124 cm, average height of 87 cm, and average weight of 130 kilograms.
Utility of the Breed and Milk:-
The utility of this breed is immense. It is popular for the larger amount of milk produced in comparison to quantity of food intake and also for the high qualitative content of its milk. The adult females give 2.5 to 3.5 liters of milk per day with a high fat content of 4.5 to 5 per cent. Also, it has more of the beta Casein variety A2 and is said to have extraordinary medicinal properties. The medicinal property of its milk has been accepted by Ayurveda too. Since the Vechur cow milk has got higher proportion of smaller fat globules and saturated fatty acids, it would be therapeutically useful in malabsorption syndrome. It is also considered to be the ideal food for children and convalescents.
Characteristics:-
Vechur in Kerala
The Vechur cow was extremely popular in Kerala until the 1960s, but became rare when the native cattle were crossbred due to the state policy of aggressive cross breeding by using exotic germ-plasm on the local female cattle. As per current estimates, about 200 cows of this breed exist today. (Source: Wikipedia)
It is indeed heartening to note that the Vechur breed of cattle was saved from extinction by the conservation efforts initiated and conducted since 1989 by Ms. Sosamma Iype – the then Director of the Centre for Advanced Studies in Animal Breeding, Kerala Agricultural University (KAU), along with her team of students.
Conservation Efforts
The Vechur cow has now attracted international recognition. The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has listed the Vechur cattle among the Indian breeds in their Domestic Animal Diversity Information System under the category of Critical Breeds, meaning nearly extinct.
Our efforts to revive this breed continue. With a view to popularize the Vechur breed, the Center for Advanced Studies in Animal Genetics & Breeding (CASAGB) of the KAU has been conducting extensive research on the Vechur breed of cattle. A vigorous breeding programme is underway to produce as many pure Vechur cattle as possible.
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Kankrej
The Kankrej are a Indian breed of cattle originating from the district of Kankrej in North Gujarat. They are also known by various other names – Bannai, Nagar, Talabda, Vaghiyar, Wagad, Waged, Wadhiar, Wadhir, and Wadial.
The Kankrej are dual purpose breed of Gujarat, highly prized as fast, powerful draught cattle and are also fair producers of milk. This breed is resistant to tick fever and shows very little incidence of diseases. Considered to be one of the heaviest of the Indian breeds of cattle, they are also very active and strong. Agricultural operations and road transport in the villages are mainly carried out by bullocks of this breed.
It is relevant to note that the animals of this breed have been exported to Brazil, certain Latin American countries and also to the southern states of the USA . The Guzerat breed of cattle that has been developed from the Kankrej cattle in Brazil are very similar but darker, bigger and have longer horns than the Kankrej. They also have good heat tolerance and pest resistance.
Characteristics :-
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Sahiwal
Sahiwal is a medium heavy type of dual-purpose breed, indigenous to Pakistan and India. This breed originated from the Sahiwal district of Pakistan, in the dry Punjab region that lies along the India-Pakistan border. In India, it is mostly found in Rohtak, Karnal, Hissar, Gurgaon district of Haryana, the Union Territory of Delhi and in West Uttar Pradesh. Amongst all the breeds, Sahiwal is found to produce the largest quantity of milk and hence is primarily used for diary production.
Characteristics:-
Conservation Efforts
The Sahiwal breed’s adaptability is also well documented in several ecological zones of Africa where they have been crossed with other exotic breeds. On account of its distinguished characteristics, this breed is exported to a wide range of countries and regions like the Caribbean, Africa and other Asian countries.
Over the years, the number of pure bred Sahiwal cattle has been dwindling. The Punjab Government has formed the “Sahiwal Cattle Society” to propagate the native breed of Punjab “Sahiwal.” The society is firm in its motto of propagating Sahiwal Cattle Breed.
Let us also align ourselves towards this noble cause of conservation and propagation of our “desi” breeds of cows.
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Rathi
Rathi is an important dual purpose Indian cattle breed whose home tract lies in the heart of Thar desert. These animals are particularly concentrated in Loonkaransar Tehsil of Bikaner district, also known as the Rathi tract.
In addition, Rathi is also found in Ganganagar & Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan and in Fazilka & Abhror district of Punjab, adjoining Rajasthan. Farmers of this region, use this breed as a major source of livelihood.
The breed takes its name from a pastoral tribe called Raths who are Muslims of Rajput extraction and lead a nomadic life. Rathi cattle originates from the mixture of Sahiwal, Red Sindhi, Tharparkar and Dhanni breeds apparently with a predominance of the Sahiwal blood.
Characteristics:-
Nomads own and breed these animails, generally move with their herds from one place to another depending on availability of water and grazing pasture. Wheat straw, pala leaves and chaffed sewan grasses are fed to animals. At times, chaffed sorghum and pearl millets are also substituted for grasses and leaves. Dry stalks of sorghum and pearl millet are fed in the lean season. Lactating animals are provided with concentrate mixture in proportion to their production. Shelter is not provided for these animals except during extreme weather.
Conservation Efforts
Like other native animals, Rathi breed is well-adapted to a hot climate , resistant to many diseases and hence they are used for crossbreeding in other countries. In India the number of pure-bred cattle including the Rathi breed is declining drastically.
Efforts to save these animals has been stepped up. Breeding farms are established for this breed at Bikaner and Hanumangarh. The Department of Animal Husbandry, Government of Rajasthan is currently engaged in breed improvement and veterinary health care & disease control programmes.
May the Rathi breed, as also the other pure Indian breeds, flourish.
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Tharparkar
Tharparkar is an important dual-purpose breed originating from the THAR desert of Rajasthan. The home tract of this breed is in the Tharparkar district of southeast Sindh in present day Pakistan. In India, these animals are now found along the Indo-Pak border covering western Rajasthan and up to the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat.
Tharparkar is a lyre-horned type of zebu cattle and seems to have originated from a mixture of the Kankrej, Red Sindhi, Gir and Nagori breeds. Tharparkar cattle are usually kept in herds of 50 to 300 animals by professional breeders as they require daily contact with people to prevent them from becoming shy and wild.
Characteristics :-
Conservation Efforts
It is interesting to note that a move has begun to popularize the Tharparkar breed. Sixty Tharparkar cattle heads, including fifty cows, from the desert belt of Jaisalmer has been dispatched to the drought-prone districts of Tamil Nadu. These have been bought by the State Animal Husbandry Department at Jaisalmer and are being raised at the cattle farm at Chettinad. The animals, known for their drought resistance, have adapted to the dry climatic condition of Chettinad.
“Even in the extreme dry condition at Thar desert in Rajasthan, the cows look hale and healthy and yield an average of 7 to 8 litres of milk per day. The climatic condition in Tamil Nadu is better than Rajasthan. The cattle are hardy and resistant to many diseases and they can withstand the heat in summer too,” says K.S. Vijaya Kumar, Assistant Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Diseases Intelligence Unit, Sivaganga.
This new initiative is part of the National Agriculture Development Programme to increase the population of Tharparkar cows in a fast manner.
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Ongole
The Ongole breed of cattle, also known as Nellore, originated from the coastal districts of Guntur, Prakasham and Nellore of Andhra Pradesh. The districts of Kurnool, Cuddapan and part of Mahabubnagar form the rearing tracts where bull calves after weaning are taken and reared till maturity and trained for farm work. This breed has been developed in the deltas of the rivers Penna, Krishna and Godawari, under the patronage of farmers in these areas. Ongole is a dual-purpose breed. They are efficiently used in their native home for both work and milk production. The cows are docile while the bulls are very powerful and suitable for ploughing and cart pulling.
Characteristics:-
Conservation Efforts
The Ongole are known for their toughness, rapid growth rate, and natural tolerance to tropical heat and disease resistance. This was the first Indian breed of cattle to gain worldwide recognition. The animals of this breed have been transported to many tropical countries of America, West Indies, South East Asia and Australia and have earned recognition for its better survival and performance on tropical pastures.
The hardy and disease-resistant Ongole breed saved the South American country when the “mad cow disease” wiped out all the other American and European breeds.
Ongole cattle have now become an international breed, spread across the Americas, a few countries in Africa, the Far East and Australia. However, on the Indian soil, the pure Ongole breed bull has become an endangered species. The majority of Indian farmers have dumped the much sought after bull in favour of the tractors. The Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) has therefore embarked upon a mission of conservation of pure Ongole breed bull.
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Deoni is a popular dual purpose cattle breed originating from the Marathwada region of Maharashtra as well as found in adjoining parts of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.
Variedly known as Dongari, Dongarpati, Surti or Deccani, As a matter of fact, this breed has evolved during the last two hundred years and is claimed to have been developed from a strain descended from the mixture of Gir, Dangi and the local cattle.
Erstwhile Nizam Kingdom considered Deoni to be the best milking variety. Deoni is not only tough and resistant,in addition constitutes an important cattle genetic resource of India. The bullocks are good for heavy work and consequently suitable for intensive cultivation.
Empirical studies show that one pair of bullocks can pull the medium plough for about seven to eight hours a day and can plough about half an acre of land.
Characteristics:-
Conservation Efforts
The Deoni cattle are reared through grazing in fallow lands, dry lands or bunds of the farms. During the night, they are housed either in separate houses or in a part of the owner’s residence.
The males of this breed are separated after 20 months of age and trained for agriculture operations. The calf and adult mortality of this breed is negligible and it is hardy and well adapted to tropical drought-prone areas.
Some time ago, the Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University (KVAFSU), established a livestock research and information centre at Bidar, equipped with qualified human resource and infrastructure.
One of its aims is to breed and popularise the Deoni cattle breed. KVAFSU conducts genetic improvement through selective breeding in accordance with the national cattle breeding policy.
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Amrit Mahal breed of cattle belongs to the State of Mysore in Karnataka. Amrit Mahal has a majestic appearance. People refer them as the mighty Amrit Mahal with swords for horns. They originate from the Hallikar breed which was cross-bred with Hagalavadi and Chithradurg.
In mid 1800,the rulers of the erstwhile Mysore State developed Amrit Mahal breed. The breed was to suit the local area. The bullocks were classified as gun bullocks, pack bullocks, etc. to transport war equipment. Amrit Mahal means the department of milk. Unfortunately these cows being poor milk-yielders, are instead classified as draught breed.
Characteristics:
Conservation Efforts
Well-to-do cultivators and large breeders generally own Amrit Mahal cattle. and maintain herds in the vicinity of the hills with ample pastures for grazing. During the 19th Century, they grew popular on account of their great endurance and speed. These cattle show a wild disposition and are dangerous at times as they are maintained in the pasture areas without restrictions and handling. Once trained, they are extremely fine bullocks, and used particularly for quick transportation.
Bullocks have a working life of 7 to 8 years. Even though Amrit Mahal cattle has poor milking qualities, recently some attention has been paid to systematically milk these animals. The breed popular during the reign of Mysore rulers, is now on the verge of extinction. Small groups formed in villages protect this breed. Farmers farm the Kaval land to rear this breed of cattle.
Amrit Mahal cattle stand a class apart from the rest of the cattle for they maintain their stamina and health even after consuming meagre amount of food and also never express tiredness. Animal Husbandry Department has taken steps to preserve these varieties and unfortunately it has not proved to be of great help.
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Punganur cattle originated from Punganur in Chittoor district, situated at the south-eastern tip of the Deccan Plateau in Andhra Pradesh, India. This breed was developed by the Rajas of Punganur and was used for milking and other light agricultural operations.
Punganur is perhaps the world’s smallest humped cattle breed. It is widely known as an efficient milch breed. It is also drought resistant and able to survive exclusively on dry fodder. The Punganur cow is said to have the grace of a deer and a beautiful walking style.
It is considered auspicious to have this cow. These cows are said to receive cosmic energy at a higher magnitude and disseminate it all around.
Characteristics:-
Conservation Efforts
It is a sad fact that this breed is on the verge of extinction. The decline of this pure Indian breed is mainly due to an earlier policy decision taken by the Government to “better” Indian cattle breeds by cross-breeding the Punganur with the Holstein-Friesian and Jersey cattle while banning the rearing of native bull breeds. The Punganur cattle are now being reared mainly on the Government Livestock Farm, Palamaner, Chittoor district, while a small informal group of private breeders are also working on reviving this revered species.
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Umblachery cattle is native of Thanjavur, Thiruvarur and Nagapattinam districts of Tamil Nadu, India. This breed gets its name from the place of its origin – the Umblachery village in Nagapattinam district of Tamilnadu. It is variedly known as Jathi madu/ Mottai madu/ Molai madu/ Therkathi madu.
Umblachery is a draught breed of the zebu type, similar to Kangayam but smaller, and used for agricultural work. The males generally find use in ploughing, carting, thrashing and paddling. This breed is capable of doing continuous work for six to seven hours under the hot sun and is suitable for ploughing in marshy paddy fields because of its medium size.
The practice of dehorning of bullocks is peculiar in the Umblachery cattle. Dehorning of male calves is at about 10-12 months of age. During dehorning, there is a practive of pruning of ears. Umblachery breeds by natural mating and artificial insemination in few animals.
Conservation Efforts
As per the 1998 estimate, a total of 2.83 lakhs of Umblachery cattle were available in the breeding tract. However, the breeding tract has shrunken over the years. Introduction of crossbreeding and lack of concerted efforts for improvement and conservation have deteriorated the status of this breed. There has been a decline in Umblachery cattle population and also a dilution of the germplasm.
The Government of Tamilnadu had established a farm in 1954 at Orathanadu (near Thanjavur) to develop this breed. A new farm was later started in Korukkai, near Umblachery village, especially to conserve Umblachery breed in its home region. Though the Government of Tamil Nadu has launched various initiatives in the Animal Husbandary Department, further efforts to conserve this rare breed is much required.
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Khillari cattle originated from the Satara district of Maharashtra and is also a native of the districts of Ahmednagar, Sangli, Kolhapur & Solapur. This breed bears a close resemblance to the Hallikar breed of Karnataka and found in Bijapur, Dharwar and Belgaum districts of Karnataka. The Khillari has about nine subspecies and these has names after their places of origin and qualities, viz: Atpadi, Mhaswad, Pandharpuri, Kosa, Harnya, Daphlya, Bramhani, Dhangiri, Nakli.
The popularity of the bulls of this breed due to good farm use, racing and transportation. The bulls adapt well to the tropical and drought-prone conditions. Classification of Khillari is “medium fast draft” cattle and is famous for its speed, strength and attractiveness. However, there has been a steady decline in its numbers, due to the low milk yield, which is an alternate source of income for farmers.
In the districts of Sholapur and Satara, cultivators breed Khillari since the herd size is small. In Satpura ranges, there are professional breeders called Thillaris who undertake the breeding activity. Government of Mahararashtra selectively breeds Khillari at Hingoli, Jath and Junoni and Government of Karnataka at Bankapur.
Colour:
The Khillari has compact build with a lean and long face, tight drawn skin and clear features. The hairs are fine, short and glossy.
The colour varies according to its types and is generally described as grey-white.Mhaswad and Atpadi Mahal types are grayish white in colour with males having deeper colour over the forequarters and hindquarters and peculiar gray and white spots on the face. Tapti type is white with carroty nose and hooves. Nakali type is gray with tawny or brick-dust colour over the forequarters. New calves have rust-red coloured heads, but this colour disappears soon after birth.
Characteristics:
Conservation Efforts
Government launched a new initiative called Rashtriya Gokul Mission to promote the conservation and development of our Indian breeds of cattle. State Implementing Agency, viz: the Livestock Development Boards (LDBs) implements this initiative.
The scheme allots funds for establishment of Integrated Indigenous Cattle Centre, Gokul Gram. Khillari breed is also a part of this initiative.
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Kangayam cattle belongs to the Kangeyam taluka which includes Erode, Karur, Namakkal and Dindigul districts in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. This breed is also known as “Kanganad” or “Kongu”. Generally, these cattle are of medium-build though some large-build type are also found.
Kangayam, Dharampuram, Udmalpet, Pollachi, Paddadam and Erode subdivisions has smaller variety, while areas of Karur, Aravakurchi and Dindigul subdivisions has larger variety. Pattagar of Palayakottai breed the purest form of Kangayam in large herds.
The Kangayam cattle conform to the Southern Indian Mysore type, though there also appears a mixture of the gray-white Ongole cattle. These cattle are draft animals with adaptability to poor nutritional conditions.
The milk yield of the Kangayam cows is generally considered to be of secondary importance. It is noteworthy that although the cows yield a sufficient quantity of milk (18 to 20 litres during the peak milking period), and the milk is also found to contain high nutrition value with no bad fat, nevertheless the breed is generally considered to be poor milkers.
Characteristics:
Conservation Efforts
Many of these natural robust native breeds are becoming extinct due to the government policy of introducing cross bred animals.
The Senapathy Kangayam Cattle Research Foundation situated in the Kangayam taluk of former Erode District, Tamil Nadu, has taken up the cause of this pure cattle breed of India.
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Red Kandhari or Lal Kandhari has habitat in Maharashtra, in the Kanpur and Nanded districts, in some pockets of Ahmedpur and Parli districts, Hingoli tehsil of Latur district and in Beed and Parbhani districts of the Marathwada region. This breed also habitats Bidar District in Karnataka.
Pure form of this breed habitats Nanded district which is its breeding tract as climate is dry and semi-arid. It is a medium-sized, good-looking and robust animal. The cows are good milkers. The bullocks are good draught animals. They are useful for heavy agricultural work like ploughing and carting, as well as for transportation.
Characteristics:-
Conservation Efforts
Studies conducted in Maharashtra during 2011-12, highlighted constraints faced by cattle-rearers in respect of shortage of fodder and grazing land. Improvement to milk yield and draught ability requires immediate attention. Necessary efforts are put in place.
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Dangi is a cattle breed belonging to the Dangs Ghat – the hilly regions of Maharashtra. It habitats Thane district, Sinner and Igatpuri taluka of Nasik district and in Akola taluka of Ahmednagar district. It originates from the hilly tracts of the Dang district of Gujarat where the rainfall is very heavy and the agricultural economy is very poor. Generally these animals occur near the hilly tracts where forests are available in the ranges of Sahyadri.
This breed is similar to the Deoni and appears to fit into the group of cattle represented by Gir, Red Sindhi and Sahiwal. The breed is also known as the “Kanadi”. The total estimated population of Dangi ranges from 2 lakhs to 2.5 lakhs in numbers.
The Dangi are in essence a medium-slow draft breed, known by and large for its hardy nature and ability to work in heavy rainfall areas, rice fields and hilly tracts. These animals subsist to a large extent on grazing. They animals are useful for ploughing and other field operations, and also for carting timber from forest areas. They are notable to carry heavy timber, at the rate of 2 to 3 miles per hour, depending upon the type of terrain and can thus cover a distance of 20 to 24 miles at ease per day. Cows of this breed are poor milkers, though attempts are made to improve their milking capabilities.
Types:-
There are six different strains of the Dangi animals which are set apart as per the coar colour and are known by their local names. “Para” is completely white with a few black spots and males of this type are held valuable. “Bahala” is a combination of white and black – when white colour is relatively more, it is familiar as “Pandhara Bahala” and when black is relatively more, it is familiar as “Kala Bahala”.
“Maneri” means complete black with few white spots. These strains of animals are found in the Ahmadanagar and Nashik district and the Dangs district.
“Lal” means more of red colour with few white spots while “Lal Bhahala” is a combination of red and white. These are found mostly in Dangs and Nashik district.
Characteristics:
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Nagori is a cattle breed belonging to the Nagaur District of Rajasthan and the breeding tracts are in Bikaner, Jodhpur and Nagaur districts of Rajasthan.
It is a draught breed and is mainly used for agricultural purposes such as plowing, cultivation drawing water from wells and transportation of field produce to the markets. This breed is also famous as trotters. The animals are harnessed to light iron-wheeled carts for enabling quick transportation all over Rajputana.
The Nagori cattle bear resemblance to the Hariana and Kankrej breed of cattle. Due to the proximity of native tracts of the Hariana breed in the north and northeast, and the Kankrej breed in the south and southwest, coupled with the frequency of famines in its native home, there has been extensive movements of the cattle to other regions in search of fodder, leading to frequent intermixture.
The Nagori cattle are agile yet powerful and possess great endurance. Let us all endeavour to preserve our sturdy Indian breed of cattle.
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Mewati or Mehwati, is a dual-purpose indigenous cattle breed belonging to the Alwar and Bharatpur districts of Rajasthan, Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, and Faridabad and Gurgaon districts of Haryana. Mewati cattle are mostly found in the Mewat tract, but the breed is sometimes called Kosi, due to the large numbers of this breed being sold from the market at Kosi, a small town in the district of Mathura.
Mewati cattle are known to have the Hariana and Gir blood in their composition. There are traces of influence of the Kankrej and Malvi breeds too. Also since the native habitats of the Rath and Nagori cattle are adjacent to Mewat, these two breeds are also said to have contributed to the formation of the Mewati.
The Mewati are generally sturdy, powerful and docile. The bulls are known for their strength and endurance and are hence used for agricultural and carting purposes as well as for drawing water from deep wells. The cows are said to be good milkers.
Characteristics:
Like the other Indian breeds the Mewati have good adaptability to extreme climatic conditions and can easily withstand environmental stress or diseases. However, in the recent years, the population of all this breed has gone down considerably and the situation is alarming.
As is the case in all other Indian breeds, the primary factors contributing to this sharp decline are adoption of crossbreeding for enhanced milk productivity, mechanization of agricultural operations diminishing the utility of bullocks, shrinking of common grazing land and several other factors.
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Gaolao is a dual purpose breed of cattle, known for its agility, native to the regions of Wardha district in Maharashtra, Balaghat district and Chindwara Districts in Madhya Pradesh and Rajnandgaon district in Chhattisgarh state. This breed is also known as “Arvi” and “Gaulgani”.
There is a close similarity between the Ongole and the Gaolao except that the latter are much lighter and have greater agility. The breeding tract of the breed includes Balaghat, Chhindwara, Seoni districts of Madhya Pradesh; Durg and Rajnandgaon districts of Chattisgarh and Wardha and Nagpur districts of Maharashtra.
Characteristics:
Gaolao is suitable for transportation in the hilly areas. It is said that the Marathas developed had specifically developed this breed and it was used mainly for military purposes by the Maratha army when invading the local Gond Kingdom.
It is a sad fact that this breed of cattle which is known for its capacity to carry load and give quality milk, is on the verge of extinction.
According to experts, the population of this breed is only about 3,000 in numbers, of which less than half are of the pure breed. Also, the pure type bulls are said to be a mere 150 in number. The only saving factor here is that our government agencies are now taking a keen interest in the preservation of this worthy breed of cattle.
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Hallikar is a native breed of cattle that has originated from the former princely state of Vijayanagar, a part of Karnataka. This breed is predominantly found in Mysore, Mandya, Hassan, Bangalore, Kolar, Chitradurga and Tumkur districts of Karnataka.
These are also known as the Mysore breed. It is said to be one of the best draught breeds of South India. Most of the current breeds found in South India have originated from the Hallikar, including the Amrit Mahal breed of cattle.
Characteristics:
These cattle are bred both by professional breeders and cultivators. A few families in each village have been breeding these cattle for generations. In order to develop this breed, the State of Karnataka has undertaken a policy of selective breeding.
In Turuvekere (in Hassan District), the Government farm has a herd of Hallikar bulls and cows. Also in Hesaraghatta, the Government has maintained nearly 15 Hallikar bulls. The cattle are maintained in a semi-intensive management system by professional breeders.
It is note-worthy that in the year 2000, the Government of India – Department of Posts commemorated the Hallikar breed of cattle by releasing a postage stamp in its name.
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The Kapila breed of cattle is a rare Indian breed, native to Dakshina Karnataka and Kasargod.
It is said that this breed was reared by Kapila Rishi – a great Vedic Sage and hence derived its name from him. It is also believed that the Kapila breed of cows are the offsprings of the divine cow, Surabhi, revered and praised since the Vedic times.
In the Mahabharata ten varieties of Kapila have been described viz:
“Suvarn Kapila ( Golden yellow); Gour Pingala (white and yellow coloured); Arakta Pingakshi (red tail and yellow·eyed ) ; Gal Pingala (neck with yellow hair); Eabhru Varnabha (whole body with yellow colour); Shveta Pingala (whitish yellow); Rakta Pingakshi (reddish yellow eyed); Khur Pingala (Yellow coloured feet); Patala (Light red); Puccha Pingala (tail yellow coloured)” [Mahabharat- Ashvamedh, 102./7-8].
Characteristics:
The colour of the Kapila breed have been variously described as black, brown, red or yellow. Certain Ayurvedic doctors are of the opinion that its colour is a blend of white, yellow, red and black and due to this mixed colour, it absorbs the Sun’s rays more intensively, making its milk superior and richer.
The Kapila breed of cattle is small in stature with an average height of 80 to 85 cms. This breed has an inherent resistance to diseases and has not been known to suffer from any fatal diseases. The milk produced by the Kapila cows though meagre in quantity has immense therapeutic value and abundant healing properties. A variant of this breed is the golden kapila, which has golden eyes, nose and golden skin.
The Kapila breed is to be found only in India with a meager population of approximately 500 or so. Our Surabhivana houses around 40 numbers of the golden variant of the Kapila breed. The ghee produced from milk of our Kapila cows appear almost like liquid gold. This breed is immensely strong and disease-free. Kapila calf is up on its feet within eight hours of its birth. This breed is perhaps the strongest amongst the Indian breed of cattle.
The Kapila breed produces a substance in its horns which has high medicinal properties. The substance is called “Gorochana”. The “Gorochana” present within its horns is used for medicinal purposes. The dung and urine of the Kapila breed are well known for their cancer curing properties. This breed is highly revered for its spiritual value.
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Nimari, is a native Indian cattle breed found in the Nimari tract of Narmada valley, comprising the districts of Barwani, Khargon, Khandwa and parts of Harda in the State of Madhya Pradesh. The border of Kharone district towards Khandwa, Indore & Dewas also has a thin population of the Nimari cattle. Some of these animals are also found in the Jalgaon district of Maharashtra.
Nimari is a dual purpose breed and is considered as the “Biological Engine of Nimari”. It is an active breed, primarily used in draught work and agricultural operations. They are occasionally used for the purpose of transportation. The cows of this breed are known to be average milk yielders.
Characteristics:
With the launch of the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, the Union Government has focused its attention on the conservation and development of the ‘Desi’ breeds which includes the Nimari breed of cattle. Also, noteworthy establishments are:
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Hariana, is a native Indian cattle breed used for draft purposes in the northern parts of India. This breed originated from from Rohtak, Hisar, Jind and Gurgaon districts of Haryana.
Besides the distribution of this breed in its traditional breeding tract and other adjoining areas, these animals were also reared in the erstwhile princely States of Nabha, Patiala, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Alwar, Loharu and Bharatpur, Meerut, Bulandshahar and Aligarh districts of Western Uttar Pradesh.
Characteristics:
Hariana breed is said to have been evolved by combining several native breeds and is a dual purpose breed. It is well suited for transport as it can pull a one ton load at 2 miles per hour and can cover 20 miles a day. The females are primarily meant for breeding of oxen, but they are also milked.
This indigenous breed of cattle is alarmingly close to extinction due to the trend for cross-breeding cattle for high yield of milk and inclination towards rearing buffalos. Pedigree herds are maintained at some Government farms. There are Goshalas which are rearing the abandoned, culled cows. At present, the estimated population of this breed is around 16.5 lakhs.
Initiatives taken by HLDB to implement Hariana Pedigree Selection project have developed much interest among the farmers and they have started appreciating the efforts of HLDB for improving the indigenous breeds of cattle. The government would provide quality bulls of these breeds to farmers at highly subsidized rates.
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Gangatiri is a native Indian breed, found around river Ganga in the eastern parts of Uttar Pradesh, in the Chandauli, Ghazipur and Ballia districts. This breed is also found in adjacent areas of Bhabua, Buxar, Arrah and Chhapra in the state of Bihar.
This breed is also known as Eastern Hariana or Shahabadi. Its breeding tracts include Varanasi, Mirzapur, Ballia and Ghazipur districts of Uttar Pradesh, and Bhojpur, Rohtas and Shahbad districts of Bihar.
These cattle are generally kept in the open or in thatched housing near the farmers’ houses. They are grazed for almost six to eight hours per day. They are generally kept in herd sizes varying from 2 to 150 numbers. Large herds are maintained purely on grazing, in the ‘Diyara’ – the area adjacent to the river Ganga. The current population of this breed is estimated to be around 3 to 4 lakhs, of which almost 67000 are found in the breeding tracts.
Characteristics:
The Gangatiri is an important dual-purpose breed, which is used for milk production as well as for agricultural operations. This is a robust and resilient breed which contributes significantly towards the livelihood of people of the region.
Of the 40 registered native cattle breeds of India, Gangatiri is one of the most recently recognised one. [Source: National Dairy Development Board]
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The Krishna Valley Cattle breed originated from the areas drained by the rivers – Krishna, Ghatapraba and Malaprabha–in the Bijapur, Bagalkot and Belgaum districts of Karnataka. They are bred in the southwestern part of Hyderabad also. In the past, the distribution of the Krishna Valley cattle was wide and included the Satara, Sangali and Solapur districts of Maharashtra as well asthe Belgaum, Bijapur and Raichur districts of Karnataka. However, now there has been a distinct shift in the breeding tracts -tothe northern parts of Karnataka.
This is a dual-purpose breed of recent origin with an inherent ability to toil in extremely hot and humid climatic conditions. They are a draught breed and are mainly used for agricultural purposes. The cows are moderate milk producers while the bulls are known for their strength and endurance. It is said that this breed has evolved from various cattle breeds belonging to various states, such as Gir and Kankrej from Gujarat, Ongole from Andhra Pradesh and other cattle types of Mysore.
The Kings of Sangli had contributed substantially towards developing and producing this hybrid breed of cattle from the mentioned ‘desi’ strains of cattle. Though it was considered a very important breed, the importance was subsequently lost due to limited use of draught power and the choice of the farmers for high milk producing cattle breeds. Also, due to the softness of the hooves of the animals and also their heavy weight, these animals are not generally appreciated by the cultivators in areas other than in their native homes.
Characteristics:
Since this breed is an admixture of various ‘Desi’ breeds from various states, it generally shows a variety of characteristics. However, certain characteristics were emphasized by the original breeders.
The Krishna Valley has decreased substantially (almost 90%, as per some estimates) and efforts to preserve this breed have been taken up on an earnest basis. The National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR) has now started projects in the native tract for conservation of this breed. Various programs have been organized to create awareness amongst the people. With joint efforts from BAIF(Bharatiya Agro Industries Foundation) and NGAGR, more than 2500 Krishna Valley cattle are now seen in its native tract.
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Bargur is a dual-purpose cattle breed, found around the Bargur hills in Anthiyur Taluka of Erode district in Western Tamil Nadu. This breed has been generally raised in herds, exclusively by the Kannada speaking Lingayats of the Bargur region. The Bargur cattle are raised especially for carrying out agricultural operations in the hilly terrain and are well-known for speed, endurance and their trotting ability. These are very hardy animals and are known to be aggressive and fiery in their disposition. They are also cautious in behaviour and tend to remain away from strangers.
This small and fiesty animal is also known as Semmarai in Tamil Nadu, and is a favourite during the “Jallikattu” – bull taming tradition played in Tamil Nadu, as part of the Pongal celebrations (Harvesting Festival).
The cows are not very good ‘milkers’ but their milk is known to have high nutritive and medicinal value. Possibilities are being explored for enhancing the milk yield of these cows through scientific means. Researchers are carrying out extensive plans for the selective breeding of the cattle, in order to double the milk yield from the present 2 to 3 litres per day.
Characteristics:
These cattle are most often maintained in extensive management system, being raised in forest areas in semi-wild conditions. They are usually housed in enclosures called ‘Pattys’ in groups of 50 to 200 animals. This hill cattle survive under almost zero-input conditions since they are mostly reared inside the forest areas.
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The Bachaur breed of cattle is found in the Bachaur Pargana that includes the districts of Sitamarhi, Madhubani, Darbhanga, Samastipur and Muzaffarpur in the state of Bihar. While the Madhubani, Darbhanga and Sitamarhi districts form the native tract of this breed, it is reported that due to the shrinking of the original breeding tract, the Bachaur cattle are now concentrated in areas adjacent to the Nepal border which also include Bachaur and Koilpur subdivisions of Sitamarhi.
This cattle is known for its draught qualities and also its ability to thrive on poor fodder resources. Despite being a draught breed, the cows prove to be better milk yielders as compared to other Indian draught breeds. The bullocks can work for long periods without any break. They are used for transport and also for agricultural operations. These cattle were very popular in Bihar in the early 19th century, during the rule of the East India Company in India.
This breed is maintained by the Koir and Ahir communities and the cattle are grazed in the nearby grassland areas. A cow having a male calf is not milked at all, and the calf is allowed to take all the milk. The male animals are castrated at the time of eruption of horns – at about one to one and a half years of age. This breed fulfilled the livelihood requirement of cattle farmers in the breeding tract by its draught power and to some extent by milk and dung.
Characteristics:
The Bachaur cattle are managed under extensive management system. These bullocks are engaged for agricultural operations and are apparently indispensable to the farmers. This draught animal power is the only appropriate, everlasting and environment friendly source of energy for majority of farmers in the breeding tract.
However, there has been a continuous decline in the population of this breed and conservation measures need be taken immediately in order to save this breed.
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Kenkatha or Kenwariya breed hails from the provinces of Bundelkhand in Uttar Pradesh, along the banks of the river Ken and the Vindhya ranges in Madhya Pradesh. This breed is named after the river Ken. Its breeding tract lies along the banks of river Ken in Panna, Chhatarpur and Tikamgarh districts of Madhya Pradesh and in the Lalitpur, Hamirpur and Banda districts of Uttar Pradesh.
This is a breed which is known for its ability to survive in rough environments. Due to the hilly nature of the region and poor feed resources, only animals that can cover long distances and have strong feet can thrive in this region. The bullocks are small but sturdy and are good for cultivation in rocky areas. They are also popular for light draught on road. Nevertheless, the Kenkatha cow is seen to be good enough for meeting consumption requirements of small families.
These cattle are maintained under the extensive management system. Cows and the young stock are maintained only on grazing while bullocks are usually fed good quality straws. They are known for their ability to thrive on poor feed resources. Animals have to cover long distances in search of grazing pastures. Straws and husks from crops are utilized as cattle feed. Only few animals are maintained by each cultivator. Pasture is scanty and generally consists of coarse grasses of cow nutritive value.
Characteristics:
There has been unrestricted interbreeding of the Kenkatha with other non–descript cattle and as a result, the breed has been diluted and its population is waning rapidly. Immediate steps are required to be taken in order to conserve and improve this indigenous breed of cattle.
To make a start, a breed society needs to be formed, which should be trained and supported for the immense task of safeguarding and upgrading of this breed in order to make it economically sustainable in the present scenario of the country
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Kerigarh cattle is named after the Kheri district of Uttar Pradesh from where it originated. This breed is also found in the adjoining Pilibhit district. It is closely related to the Malvi breed in appearance. Its lyre-shaped horn formation is typical of the Malvi breed though the Kerigarh are much lighter in appearance. The Kerigarh bullocks are fast trotters and are extensively used for draught purposes. Though very poor milkers, this breed is considered as one of the foremost amongst the draught animals of India. The cattle start work when they are about 4 years old with a weight of approx. 270 kgs. It is said that a pair of bullocks can pull about 1.5 tons of load trotting to a distance of about 50 to 55 kms per day at a speed of 5 to 6 kms per hour.
Management Conditions:
According to the Breed Survey 2013 conducted by the Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries, Government of India, the population of the Kerigarh is estimated at around 75000 numbers. The Uttar Pradesh Government has been allocated funds for the development and protection of the indigenous breeds under National Gokul Mission and accordingly the establishment of Gokul Gram and bull-cow farms are being carried out.
The challenges faced in carrying out the national movement of conserving our native breed need to be addressed promptly and adequately to bring in rapid improvement in cattle population.
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The Malvi cattle breed is one of the most beautiful cattle breeds of India, found in the large area comprising Indore, Dewas, Ujjain, Shajapur, and Mandsaur districts of Madhya Pradesh. This breed of zebu cattle originated from the Malwa plateau of western Madhya Pradesh.
It’s breeding tract includes Rajgarh, Ratlam, Shajapur and Ujjain districts of Madhya Pradesh and is also bred in the north-eastern section of Hyderabad, where it is popularly used as medium and light draft on the roads, and for cultivation purposes.
This breed is also known as Manthani, Malavi or Mahadeopuri. This breed has developed into different strains such as light, medium and heavy in size, based on the soil conditions they are bred in. Also, it is said to resemble the Kankrej breed in many ways. Though the Malvi is primarily known as a draught animal, the cows produce little but very good quality milk.
Characteristics:
These cattle are well adapted to native climatic conditions, and show great endurance and ability to carry heavy loads on rough roads.
The bullocks are known to trot very fast and hence are used for quick transportation. They are able to carry heavy loads on rough roads. The bullocks work well in the black cotton soil.
Significantly, in the past three decades, a substantial amount of work has been done in several states through gaushalas and cooperatives, to conserve the indigenous breeds.
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The Ponwar cattle is an indigenous breed of India and is named after the place from where it has originated, viz: Ponwar in Puranpur Taluk in the Pilibhit district of Uttar Pradesh. Its breeding tract lies in the Pilibhit district of Uttar Pradesh. Its breeding tract is a plain area with majority of land area covered with forests. A few of this cattle are also found in the Lakhimpur-Kheri district of Uttar Pradesh.
Ponwar is mainly a draught breed and is carting and agricultural operations. The bullocks of this breed are quick and strong and are well suited for such operations. They are mostly used for light ploughing and carting. The bullocks can easily transport 800 to 100 kgs of load upto 10 kms and can plough one acre of land in six to eight hours.
This breed is also known as Purnea or Kabri (mixture of colours) and is said to have evolved from a mix of hilly cattle (Morang – Nepalese hill cattle) and plain land cattle. The animals are excellent at foraging, and excel under free grazing conditions. This breed is maintained by the Pasi and Yadav communities of Uttar Pradesh, while the Tharu tribe is mainly involved in rearing the pure breed Ponwar.
These animals are of a sturdy kind with rare occurrence of diseases amongst them. A peculiar characteristic of this breed is that they generally move in groups with their heads down, in between each other, due to fear from predators. They have a fiery disposition and are known to be very active and aggressive. They have remarkable speed and stamina.
These animals are maintained under the extensive management system, without provision of sheds. They are relatively tough to control. They are raised entirely on forest-land without any feed supplementation. These animals have been found to mature late. The cows of this breed are said to be fair milkers and the calves are allowed suckle the cows.
Characteristics:
The population of this cattle breed has shrunk to less than 10,000 numbers in the entire breeding tract, mainly due to unplanned and unsystematic breeding. The current situation demands an urgent need for genetic management and conservation. The castration and selling of male calves of 6 to 12 months age, for use in agricultural operations and transportation should be stopped immediately. Active planning and systematic breeding operations should commence without further delay so that this sturdy and locally adaptable draft breed can flourish.
The substantial amount of work done in most states through gaushalas and cooperatives must be promoted further in order to conserve our native breeds. Surabhivana continues its engagement with the movement of conserving the Indian breed of cattle.
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The Red Sindhi is an indigenous milch cattle breed with a reputation of being heat tolerant. It is the most popular of all Zebu dairy breeds. This breed originated in the mountainous region called `Mahal Kohistan’, spread over parts of Karachi, Thattha and Dadu districts in Sindh. Though the original breeding tract is in Pakistan (formerly India), some organised herds are available in Orissa, Tamil Nadu, Bihar, Kerala and Assam.
This breed has a high genetic potential for milk production and are largely maintained for this purpose, across India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
These cattle are also hardy, with a high degree of resistance to heat and ticks. They adapt themselves well to stressful environments, and are docile and quiet. The bullocks are steady workers, and are therefore, well suited for road and field work.
This breed is considered to have originated from Las Bela cattle found in the state of Bela, Baluchistan. This breed is also known as “Malir”, “Red Karachi” and “Sindhi”.
The home-tract of this breed extends to the irrigated areas of Hyderabad (Sindh) and the arid plains of Lasbella district in Balochistan.
Due to its hardiness, its heat resistance and high milk yields, this breed has been promoted to many parts of India, and also to other parts of the world – including at least 33 countries in Asia, Africa, Oceania and the Americas.
Characteristics:
The population of this cattle breed has shrunk to even less than 70,000 numbers, according to the year 2013 census. The prevalent situation calls for an urgent need for genetic management and conservation of this breed.
In view of the status and performance of this breed, all organized herds in our country should be declared as conservation units. Attempts should be made to multiply the germplasm of this breed at a faster pace.
An improvement programme incorporating all organized herds (Associated Herd Progeny Testing) should be planned on a priority, for improvement of this breed.
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The Siri is a small-sized indigenous Zebu draught breed, and found in the hill tracts around Darjeeling in Bengal, India and also in Sikkim and Bhutan. Siri is also known as “Trahbum”. This breed is said to be the native of Bhutan where it is known as “Nublang”. Its breeding tract includes Darjeeling, Gyalshing, Namchi, Gangtok, and Sikkim. The males are mainly reared in the hilly area, for draught purposes, and sometimes they are the only source of draught power for the region.
The Siri bullocks are good workers while the cows are fair milkers. These animals graze on the steep slopes of the hilly forests, and are mostly housed in open houses on the slopes. The Siri cattle can survive very well in the mountains, due to their long and powerful legs. The bulls are very valuable as they are one of the strongest amongst the native breeds and are well suited for the purpose of carting. They can carry about 350 to 400 kgs of weight, over the hills. They are also used for agricultural work such as ploughing, cultivating, threshing, etc.
Siri cattle are allowed to graze throughout the year despite the scanty pastures during most of the year. Dry animals and young stock are taken for pasturing in the government reserved forests at higher altitudes during summer months.
Characteristics:
The milking cows and bullocks are stall-fed, and receive rice straw, maize stover or hay along with green grass. Concentrated feed is given in minimal quantities. The population of the Siri cattle has been found to be declining fast, on account of their crossbreeding with Jersey cattle.
In most of the states, either the crossbreds are fast replacing the indigenous cattle or the growth of the crossbreds are far ahead of that of indigenous cattle. This situation needs to be addressed urgently.
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Binjharpuri is a dual-purpose breed, indigenous to the Binjharpur area in the Jajpur district of Orissa. This breed is also known as “Deshi”. These cattle are mainly found in the Binjharpur, Bari, Sujanpur and Dasarathpur area of Jajpur District. They are also found in the adjoining Kendrapara and Bhadrak districts of Orissa where the region is mainly coastal plain and some saline zones.
These cattle are maintained for milk and manure, and also for draught purposes. These cattle are heat and drought tolerant. They are excellent draught animals, and are very active in agricultural operations. Maximum number of small and also landless farmers in Orissa maintain these cattle on account of their unique utility value.
These cattle are housed in sheds made of thatched roof with ‘kutcha’ floor. The walls of the shed are made of bamboo sticks, palm or coconut leaves, thus making the sheds well ventilated.
Characteristics:
The study on “Survey, evaluation and characterization of the Binjharpuri breed, made by Orissa Livestock Resources Development Society(OLRDS), strongly advocates for improvement of this breed through selective breeding for the benefit of the farmers. This effort happens to be the first of its kind in the country towards practical conservation and improvement of newly registered native cattle germ-plasm.
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The Pulikulam is a popular draught and game breed of Tamil Nadu. The cattle originated from Pulikulam, a village located in Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu. Though named after its village of origin, it is also known as Palingu maadu, Mani maadu, Jallikattu maadu, Mattu maadu and Kilakattu maadu.
It breeding tracts are found in the Madurai, Sivaganga and Virudhunagar districts of Tamil Nadu. The bulls are used for breeding for up to 10 years of age. Life span of the animals is around 20 years, with a total calving of 8-10. Milking is usually done only in 10-15% lactating cows in a herd, so as to meet the home consumption of herdsmen.
Characteristics:
The Pulikulam breed of cattle are maintained as migratory herds, and its draught and manure capabilities play a significant role in the rural livelihood of the communities rearing them for draught and organic agricultural production. Almost ninety-nine per cent of the Pulikulam cattle is bred and maintained by the traditional cowherds – mainly the Konar and Thevar communities.
There has been an alarming decrease in the population of this breed. The year 2006 figures show a population of about 45000 whereas the year 2013 figures show a population of about 7500. Efforts to conserve this Indian breed should be stepped up though SEVA (Sustainable agriculture and Environmental Voluntary Action) – an institution specialising in conservation of native cattle breeds – in Madurai has been striving over the years for the protection of our native cattle breeds.
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Khariar is a breed that is named after the place of its origin. This breed is local to Khariar, Komna, Sinapalli and Boden areas of the Nuapada district of Orissa. Its breeding tracts comprises the Nuapada, Kalahandi and Bolangir Districts of Orissa. Like the Binjharpuri cattle of Orissa, the Khariar is also known by the synonym of ‘Deshi’. In appearance, they resemble the Motu breed of Orissa.
Khariar is basically a draft breed. The bullocks are used for agricultural operations and for transportation. These are docile, small-sized, strong animals, heat and drought tolerant, and have a very low incidence of diseases. These are bred around their hilly and undulated, native tracts.
Usually, the cattle of entire village are taken together for during cropping season in order to avoid damage to crops. Though the Khariar is basically a draft breed, the cows of this breed produce considerable quantities of milk, which is mostly used for family consumption, and at times marketed.
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Ghumusari is a breed that is local to Bhanjanagar (Ghumusari) sub-division of Ganjam and adjoining areas of Phulbani district of Orissa. Ghumusari breed has derived its name from the place of its origin, the Ghumusur region.
It’s breeding tracts include the western parts of Ganjam district, with heavy concentration in the Bhanjanagar, Sorada and Aksa areas. Like the Binjharpuri and Khariar cattle of Orissa, the Ghumusari is also known by the name ‘Deshi’.
This breed is mainly a draught cattle breed, though sometimes these are also maintained for milk, manure and fuel.
These cattle are fast declining in numbers, mainly due to non-availability of quality bulls in the native tract. Efforts are being made to stop this decline, and conserve the breed.
The present population of Ghumusari is less than 10,000 in its native tract and is decreasing at a faster rate. Conservation and improvement activities have already been taken up by the Orissa Government in its native tracts with the involvement of the local farming community.
Characteristics:
Selective breeding can bring about sustained development in the productivity of ‘Desi’ cattle. Orchestrated efforts by the locals as well as by the various State Governments will definitely see a rise in numbers of our sturdy, disease-resistant Indian breeds of cattle.
The cows are generally docile by nature. Since the breed is chiefly a draught cattle breed, very few animals are maintained for milk, manure and fuel. The lactating cows and bullocks are fed with straw, rice bran and kitchen waste.
The Ghumusari cattle are maintained in the semi-intensive management system, and are rarely fed any concentrate. These cattle are heat tolerant, and have a very low incidence of diseases. These can sustain on very low-quality feed intake.
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Kosali is a ‘desi’ cattle breed predominantly found in the central plains of Chattisgarh. The ancient name of this region was Kowshal, named after the maternal uncle of Lord Sri Ram, and hence the name Kosali. The breeding tracts lie in the areas of Raipur, Durg, Bilaspur and Janjgir districts. This breed has evolved over the generations, surviving mainly due to its adaptability to harsh climatic conditions and resistance to diseases. The Yadava and Rawuth community of farmers belonging to this region have been maintaining this breed since generations.
These cattle are maintained under the extensive management system. They are provided with a ‘kaccha’ type of housing that shelters the animals from cold, rain and storm. These cattle are allowed to graze during the day and are tied up during the night. They are fed in groups or individually. They are generally allowed to graze for their feed. They are also provided with locally-grown fodder by the farmers. The lactating and heavily pregnant animals are fed with concentrates for additional nourishment.
Characteristics:
According to latest records, the estimated population of this breed is about 32 lakhs in numbers. Breeding strategies, management and conservation models designed for the overall improvement of this breed, have proved to be effective.
With the objectives of development and conservation, the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) has initiated programmes for genetic improvement of these indigenous dairy breeds. Thus, the future holds promise for improvement in the productivity of our indigenous breeds of cattle.
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Belahi is a ‘desi’ breed of cattle and are also known as Morni or Desi. It is a dual type cattle breed, reared for milk and draught by the Gujjar community in the foothills of Haryana.
Belahi cow produces about 3.25 Kg milk per day. This breed is named after the term ‘Belaha’ – a term used to describe a mixture of colours. The breeding tract of Belahi lies in the foothills of Shivalik in Haryana State and includes Ambala, Panchkula, Yamunanagar districts of Haryana and Chandigarh.These are hardy, enduring cattle, resistant to endo-ectoparasites and other contagious diseases and mastitis.
These cattle are housed in the open during migration. During winter months when the cattle do not migrate, they are housed mostly in pucca houses. These cattle are exclusively kept on grazing. Only some of the milch cows are provided with concentrate feed at the time of milking.
These cattle are kept in herds of hundreds of females with two to three bulls which are replaced every 3-4 years. The young calves are usually sold for agricultural purpose. Females, though kept in herd, are never sold. Because of high replacement of this cattle, its livestock strength is increases year after year.
Characteristics:
According to the last count, there are more than 20,000 cattle heads in the breeding tract where this breed needs conservation due to the continuous decline in pastures and water bodies in its native tract. The breed is under threat due to stray bulls of the breed particularly the exotic cow bulls during migration and non-resident halts. Nevertheless, the breeders are constantly maintaining the pure-bred animals.
The Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Haryana has launched the scheme for conservation and development of indigenous cattle (Gausamvardhan) 2017-18. The three-pronged purpose of the scheme is to identify top quality germplasm for sustainable genetic improvement, procurement of pedigreed young indigenous male calves for further supply in the State or Country and encouraging the farmer to rear better yielding Belahi cattle.
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Alambadi cattle is a wonderful indigenous breed that derives its name from a village called Alambadi on the banks of river Kaveri, in the Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu. In this tract, there are plenty of uncultivated forest lands that allow the cattle an abundant pasture and unrestricted roaming grounds. Alambadi cattle are also found in the Erode district of Tamil Nadu. Raised on the hilly regions of Tamil Nadu, the breed survives on the grazing in the forest regions. The Alambadi cattle in the North are said to be the descendants of the Hallikar breed of Mysore.
Alambadi is mostly bred by Konga Vellalas, Lingayats, Vanniyars and Vokkaligas of the region, in the hilly forest areas of the upper Kaveri basin Mettur (Salem dt.) Pennagaram, Dharmapuri (both in Dharmapuri dt.) Kollegal, Bangalore rural (both in Karnataka state). It is considered to be one of the rarest of breeds in the world. Alambadi is capable of existing even in extremely hot temperatures and its disease resistance capacity is remarkable. Today, this breed has become almost extinct.
The cattle are brought back to villages during harvest times when the harvested fields provide pasture for some time, and the cattle supply the necessary manure for the fields. This breed of cattle mostly exist on grazing and dry fodder only.
Characteristics:
Like the other Indian breeds the Mewati have good adaptability to extreme climatic conditions and can easily withstand environmental stress or diseases. However, in the recent years, the population of all this breed has gone down considerably and the situation is alarming.
As is the case in all other Indian breeds, the primary factors contributing to this sharp decline are adoption of crossbreeding for enhanced milk productivity, mechanization of agricultural operations diminishing the utility of bullocks, shrinking of common grazing land and several other factors.
These cows can produce good amount of milk though the quality of milk needs to be improved upon. However, since these are mostly considered as poor milkers, they are used only for draught purposes. The cattle mostly live in a semi-wild state in the forests most of the year, especially from the month of July to January, when they are kept in pens during the night.
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Kasaragod dwarf or Kullan is one amongst the three prime dwarf cattle in India, the other two being Malnad Gidda and Vechur breed of cattle. Kasaragod dwarf is mostly found in Kasargod, the northern-most district of Kerala, flanked by a vast coastal area in the West, plains in the South and hilly tracts towards the North. The breed is also found in Mangalore, Coorg and some other parts of Karnataka. Some centuries ago, this breed of cattle was known as Sahya Pashu (Sahyadri Hill Cows) and was also found in Kannur and other parts of Kerala.
This breed is small-sized, friendly and understanding, and is well adapted to the hot and humid climate of Kerala. It possesses high heat tolerance and disease resistance, and can survive on kitchen scraps and jungle forage. This breed is also less susceptible to mastitis, a common udder infection.
Kasaragod Dwarf breed is in much demand due to the popularity of zero-budget farming. Those who know this breed are confident that conservation of these cattle could actually help the agrarian communities to deal with their problem of sustainable progress, and could also play a vital role in the growth and development of rural areas.
This breed has not been included in the list of India’s 41 native cattle breeds that have been documented by the National Bureau for Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR) Karnal, Haryana though moves have already begun to get this breed included in the list of native cattle breed of Kerala.
Characteristics:
The Kasargod Dwarf Conservation Society was established in 2010 with objective of improving Kasargod dwarf breed. Currently more than 200 breeders and organic farmers are associated with this initiative.
Organic farmers in north Kerala are determined to conserve and popularise this dimunitive breed of cattle. A positive development is that Bela Cattle Farm in Badiadukka panchayat in Kerala is now being developed as a research centre under the Central Veterinary University to study, research and popularise this rare breed of Kasaragod Dwarf.
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Red Purnea or Purnea cattle is a distinct indigenous breed, distributed in the entire district of Purnea and the adjoining Araria and Katihar districts of Bihar. Most of its breeding tract has sandy soil deficient in micro-nutrients, with water logging condition. These cattle are naturally bred, and are resistant to diseases.
These cattle which exist in grey and red varieties, are not listed amongst the recognised breeds of cattle in India. Its estimated population is about 2.5 lakhs.
These cattle are small to medium-sized animals. These are low milk yielders, and are extensively useful in agricultural operations and pulling loads. On an average, they work 7 to 8 hours a day and a pair of bullocks can plough an acre of land in approximately six hours.
This breed is mostly provided housing sheds, or are kept in front of the farmer’s house or under shades of nearby trees. Almost 70% of the cattle are stall-fed with straws from paddy, wheat and maize that are cultivated locally. These are rarely fed with green fodder or any type of concentrate. The remaining 30% are allowed for community grazing.
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Selective breeding may be the best tool for genetic improvement of this breed of cattle.
There is considerable variation in the milk production among Red Purnea cows which could be exploited for further development of the cattle in order to enhance the milk productivity. Strategies for genetic improvement of the cattle are being undertaken. However so far, this breed has not been registered under the National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR).
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Hissar is a hybrid ‘desi’ breed developed in course of over a century with the crossing of the several native breeds including the Hariana breed. Currently, the population of this breed is very low, since the present government policy is to develop the Hariana breed. Hissar cattle have their origin from Indian state “Hissar” but are found in fair number in areas adjoining Indian border including districts of Bahawalnagar and Bahawalpur in the Punjab province of Pakistan. The home of this breed is Hansi tehsil of Hissar district, and these cattle are present in the Hissar and Hansi districts. These are also found abundantly in Punjab, and is generally found to be white coloured. It was observed that farmers of certain areas of Punjab had a special liking for white and others for the dark grey colour of these cattle. The herd was, therefore, divided on these lines and this made the breed more popular in the region. This breed is famous for its draught power capacity, endurance and agility at work. These are seen in cattle fairs at Hansi, Hissar, Bhiwani, Sirsa, Rewari and Singar.
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Not much details are available about the Hissar cattle. More so, since the Hariana cattle have been considered as an alternative to the Hissar cattle.
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Ladakhi breed is found in the high-altitude desert region where the main source of water is the winter snowfall on the mountains. These cattle are native to the Leh-Ladakh region of Jammu & Kashmir, and have their breeding tracts in and around the Leh and Kargil districts of Jammu and Kashmir. Ladakhi cattle is a unique germplasm having excellent adaptation to high atmospheric conditions.
The regions on the north flank of the Himalayas experience heavy snowfall and remain virtually cut off from the rest of the country for several months in the year, while summers are short but long enough to grow crops. The proportion of oxygen is comparatively less due to a lack of vegetation. Nevertheless, these are well adapted to the extreme cold climatic and hypoxic (decreased oxygen supply) conditions.
This breed like the other native breeds are known for their resistance to diseases and their ability to thrive on low input system.
These cattle are reared under the extensive system for milk, draft and manure purposes. This cow is a great source of A2 milk. In spite of extreme climatic conditions, subsistence on poor quality feed and low availability of water, it produces around 2 to 5 kg of milk per day.
Milk of this breed serves as an important protein source for local people, particularly during lean winter periods. Since its milk has a high fat percentage, it is used for producing butter and churpi – an important part of the local diet.
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Incidentally, a technical bulletin “Ladakhi Cattle: A Unique Animal Genetic Resource Adapted to High Altitute of Leh-Ladakh” released by ICAR provides insight into the research conducted by scientists and researchers.
It is very important to take up measures for the improvement, protection and conservation of this breed of cattle. Necessary efforts are being put in place.
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Konkan Kapila is a native breed distributed along the Konkan region of Maharashtra and Goa. This breed has been recently registered with the National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, India.
The Kapila is an exceptional and revered breed in terms of its spiritual quotient, and has inherited its name from the ancient sage Kapila who is said to have tended this cattle breed. Kapila is native to the regions of Dakshina Karnataka and Kasaragod in Kerala. This breed is easy to maintain as it is not labour-intensive. It can survive on jungle forage and minimal added fodder. Its food comprises highly diverse forest flora, including many of the wild medicinal plants.
The Kapila breed has excellent tolerance to diseases. Its products are regarded as the holiest among all cow products, and are used extensively for performing rituals. Its milk, dung and urine are utilised for the curing of cancer. The milk produced by these cows contain immense medicinal properties and healing capabilities. Due to its small stature, Kapila bulls and cows can easily ingest small-sized grass, plants etc. and these are highly nutritious. The nutritional values are naturally passed on to its milk, dung and urine.
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Swarna Kapila has golden-coloured nose, skin and eyes. This breed produces a substance called “Go-rochana” in its horns that are shed once in two years. Go-rochana has great therapeutic value. It eases off fever and weakness, is effective against skin problems, and is an antidote to poison. It is a spiritual product, and wards off negativities, promotes clear thoughts, etc.
Males of this breed possess good draft ability. They are best suited to hilly terrain and hot, humid climate- as found in its native tract. It possesses a high level of heat tolerance. It can survive on scanty grazing, even in sloppy forest areas, without any fatigue.
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If a cow cannot stand up, then it is usually only a matter of time before it will give up the will to live and pass away. When a cow is down, the critical step to take is to help it stand up. This is important so that its own body weight doesn’t put pressure on its organs, and to ensure it is able to receive proper veterinary care. The process of lifting up a downed cow and holding it in that position is very difficult and requires people and resources. People who care about cows go to all sorts of lengths to hire laborers, buy materials and take turns trying to rehabilitate the cow while its condition improves. Others sell the cows to slaughterhouses.
The bottom line is – the sooner we help the cow stand up, the greater its chances of recovery. This is where Cow Lifting Equipment have proved to be invaluable miracle aid. These machines enable people to act quickly to help a downed cow stand up and be tended to, without the need for additional labor or supplies, immensely improving and almost guaranteeing its chance of recovery. More importantly, these machines become life-savers for cows in surrounding areas.
By Mahaperiyava’s grace and overwhelming support from donors, we have donated Cow Lifting Equipment so far that are stationed in key locations across Tamil Nadu, and routinely help at least cows every week in their surrounding areas.
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