TheHimachal Pradeshgovernment will launch a three-year Rs 4.64-crore centrally sponsored project for the period from 2020-21 to 2022-23 financial years for the conservation and propagation of thePahari cow, which has been recognised as an indigenous breed by theNational Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources(NBAGR), Karnal.
Recognized as Himachali Pahari Cattle by NBAGR, the bovine breed constitutes about 7.59 lakh (41.52%) of the total cattle Population in the state and contributes about 7.46% to the states total milk production and 10.73% of milk obtained from cattle. Due to changes in the socio-economic Environment, this cattle breed is under threat of extinction.
The will set up three ultra-modern sheds at an initial cost of Rs 75 lakh to rear 50 disease-free Pahari cows (30 adult and 20 heifers) at Bagthan. The cattle will be purchased from farmers at an estimated cost of around Rs 17 lakh.
Department will spend Rs 2,520 every month on each cow and Rs 1,572 on each heifer to meet feeding requirements. The department will purchase three bulls for natural service under the project, he said, adding that the procurement of animals will be done from farmers whose animals have a record of lactation yield.