GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE

LOK SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO: 5596

ANSWERED ON:30.04.2013

RATE OF MILK PRODUCTION

ANANT KUMAR HEGDE

(a)whether the rate of milk production in native cows has been found to be lower than that of imported cross-breed cows;

(b)if so, the average daily rate of milk production of imported and native cows separately, and the estimated number of imported and native cows in the country, at present;

(c)whether maintenance of imported cows is costlier than that of the native cows;

(d)if so, the details thereof; and

(e)the steps taken by the Government to protect the native cows?

Will the Minister of AGRICULTUREbe pleased to state:- 

 THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR AGRICULTURE AND FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES

(Dr. CHARAN DAS MAHANT)

(a)Yes, Madam. It is a fact that the rate of milk production in native cows is lower than that of imported i.e. exotic/cross-breed cows.

(b)The details of the average daily rate of milk production of imported i.e. exotic/ cross-breed and native cows and the estimated number of imported i.e. exotic/cross-breed and native cows in the country is given below.

Sr.No. Variety Estimated Average daily rate Number of of production (Kg/Day) Cows (000, Nos.) 

1 Native or Indigenous Cows 31,591 2.27

2 exotic/cross-breed Cows 11,697 6.97

Source: State/UTAnimal Husbandry Departments 

 (c) & (d) The maintenance of imported cows is comparatively higher than the native cow, as it demands intensive feeding and health management and mainly used for commercial purpose in the country

 (e) Genetic improvement in bovines including cattle and buffalo is a long term activity and Government of India has initiated a major programme `National Project for Cattle and Buffalo Breeding` (NPCBB). The NPCBB envisage genetic upgradation on priority basis with a focus on development and conservation of important indigenous breeds. Under the project 100% grants-inaid is given to State Implementing Agencies.