Possessing a Punganur cow is synonymous with prestige, often finding a cherished place in the pastoral landscapes of temples, goshalas, and the residences of affluent landowners. (Photo: News18)
Breeding Punganur cows, a rare and diminutive breed native to Andhra Pradesh, has become an accessible endeavor, even for those with limited space. On Makara Sankranthi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was seen tending to these unique cows at his New Delhi residence. The Punganur breed, renowned for its small size, can thrive in apartments, making it an appealing option for home breeding.
According to Dr. BL Chidananda, a retired professor of Animal Sciences, Punganur cows are a ‘gold mine’ due to their highly nutritional milk, containing elements akin to gold (Au). Temples in Andhra Pradesh, including the famed Tirupati Thirumala Temple, use the milk for ceremonial offerings. The milk is rich in A2 milk with high-fat content, Omega fatty acids, calcium, potassium, and magnesium, promoting excellent health.
Punganur cows yield approximately 1 to 3 liters of milk per day, with an impressive 8% fat content compared to 3 to 4% in other native breeds. The quality of the milk is influenced by factors such as feed quality, genetics, and proper maintenance. These cows, considered divine and visually striking, have a gentle temperament, making them ideal companions for families, especially those with children.
Owning a Punganur cow is considered prestigious, with prices ranging from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 10 lakh, depending on breed purity and overall health. Hindus hold cows in high regard, associating them with prosperity and compassion. Punganur cows, once on the brink of extinction, have experienced a revival through initiatives like Mission Punganur, launched by the Andhra government in 2020 to popularize and conserve the breed.
The Punganur breed faced extinction as farmers prioritized high milk-yielding hybrid cows, relegating Punganur cows to the sidelines. To counter this decline, concerted efforts were made to revive their numbers, and Mission Punganur played a crucial role in this conservation endeavor. The Prime Minister’s Office has actively contributed to this cause by rearing a group of Punganur cows as part of their commitment to conservation.
In addition to governmental efforts, agri-scientists are exploring techniques such as embryo transfer to further conserve and safeguard the Punganur breed. The significance of these efforts goes beyond mere conservation, as Punganur cows embody cultural reverence, symbolizing purity, love, and warmth in Hindu tradition.