Indigenous cattle breeds have co-evolved with local landscapes, climates and cultural practices for centuries. In contrast, exotic breeds were introduced primarily for increasing milk production during colonial and post-colonial periods. Indigenous and crossbred cattle contribute 24 % and 16 % to the total cattle milk pool in India. This historical context forms the backdrop for the comparative analysis of their productivity and resilience. Though exotic breeds of cattle often receive attention for their high milk yield characteristics, indigenous cattle have quietly thrived in their local environments, embodying an extraordinary combination of adaptability, genetic resilience and cultural significance.
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