It is not the first time when Rajasthan Agriculture Minister Prabhu Lal Saini has glorified indigenous cows over foreign, crossbred cattle. Concerned by the withering number of Indian varieties in Rajasthan, the minister has warned all the ranchers.”If immediate steps were not taken to increase the production of milk of indigenous cows, the day is not far away when it would be sold through medical stores,” said Dr. Prabhulal Saini. (Quote: Indian Express).
Why Does Saini Patronize ‘Desi’ Cow Varieties?
According to Dr. Saini, the health conscious people prefer to have fresh cow milk on a daily basis. Indigenous cows like Gir, Tharparkar, and Rathi produce milk rich in A2 Beta casein protein. The same protein is a major component in mother’s milk. Doctors believe that A2 Beta casein is good for health. It has amazing disease-fighting properties. It:
- Prevents cancer
- Helps in diabetes
- Boosts digestion
- Cures high blood pressure
There is a huge demand for indigenous cow milk in the market because of its high nutritional value! Because of exotic, cross-bred varieties dominating the market, the farmers aren’t interested in the Desi varieties. They prefer exotic breeds like Holstein and Jersey for reasons unknown. Foreign breeds produce milk rich in A1 beta casein protein. A1 beta casein is not as effective as A2 beta casein. The farmers need to realize the nutritional value of ‘Desi’ cow milk. Rearing Indian cows gives them a chance to boost monthly income through animal husbandry.
Having propagated the importance of Indian breeds, the minister proposed a solution to cow owners. The farmers must pay attention to the health and feeding habits of the animals to enhance milk production. It’s essential to feed them healthy foods. Regular health check-ups and immediate treatment are equally important.
Saying so, the minister added, “Cattle rearing will play an important role in fulfilling the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and chief minister Vasundhara Raje to double the income of farmers by 2020.” Hopefully, promoting Indian cows will help farmers accomplish this aim.
