(a) whether introduction of hybrid cows for higher milk production
has led to the neglect of indigenous cow breeds in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereto;
(c) whether the Government proposes to take measures to protect,
improve and promote indigenous cow breeds in the country; and
(d) if so, the details thereof and the steps being taken in this regard?
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE, CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (PROF. K.V. THOMAS)
(a) to (d) No, Madam. For the first time, breed-wise census has been conducted by the Government during 2007. which is yet
to be published. Therefore, it is not possible to compare the current popuiation of indigenous breeds with their population
in the earlier censuses and to draw any definite conclusion.
However, considering the importance of indigenous breeds in the national economy, Government has undertake;
the following steps for their development and conservation:
(i) Department is implementing National Project for Cattle and Buffalo Breeding since October 2000, which focus
on development and conservation of indigenous breeds. During Phase-I of the project an amount of Rs. 58 crore
has been released exclusively for development and conservation of indigenous breeds. An amount of Rs. 356.78
crore has been exclusively earmarked for development and conservation of indigenous breeds under Phase-II of
NPCBB.
(ii) Government is also implementing three central sector schemes, namely Central Cattle Breeding Farms, Central Frozen Semen
Production and Training Institute and Central Herd Registration Scheme for production of genetically superior breed of bull
calves, good quality frozen semen and identification of location of superior germplasm of cattle and buffaloes to meet the
requirement of bulls and frozen semen of some of the important indigenous breeds in the country.