Punganur cow: India's smallest and cutest bovine marvel
In the town of Punganur in Andhra Pradesh, a diminutive yet remarkable creature, the Punganur cow, has captured national attention. Despite its size, smaller than a Great Dane, this breed recently gained recognition, thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He shed light on the urgent need to safeguard indigenous cow breeds, emphasizing the Punganur cow as a symbol of preserving India's rich farming traditions.
Social media fame
The Punganur cow garnered widespread recognition when PM Modi, in celebration of Makar Sankranti on January 14, 2024, personally fed and interacted with the cows at his residence. As images of this endearing moment were shared on social media, it quickly went viral, and the public was fascinated, eager to know more about this unique breed.
Bred by Rajas of Punganur
The Punganur cow, also referred to as Punganur dwarf cattle, traces its roots back to the Chitoor district of Andhra Pradesh. Renowned as one of the tiniest humped cattle breeds, the cow was developed by the Rajas of Punganur, for serving in milking and light agricultural tasks. Today, it is on the verge of extinction, with just a few remaining.
Friendly cow
Due to their compact size, Punganur cows are well-suited to be cherished as pets in numerous Indian households. Known for their gentle and friendly temperament, Punganur cows are easily manageable. Favored in traditional and rural settings, they are valued for their ability to thrive in limited spaces while still serving dairy purposes. Their friendly demeanor makes them excellent companions for children and adults alike.
Nutritious milk
Primarily valued for milk production, the Punganur cow stands out due to its exceptionally high-fat content in comparison to other cattle breeds. While typical cow's milk comprises 3-5% fat, the Punganur cow produces milk with an impressive 8% fat content. The cow's milk being abundant in omega fatty acids, is believed to have medicinal properties.
Endangered
The Punganur cow, a rare and endangered breed, teeters on the brink of extinction with only a handful of individuals left. Lacking official recognition due to its dwindling numbers, the Livestock Research Station in Palamaner, Chittoor district, affiliated with SV Veterinary University, takes care of the conservation and breeding efforts to safeguard the remaining population of this unique and threatened breed.
