Punganur Cow, World’s Smallest Cattle Breed, Draws Attention at Bhubaneswar Convention

Bhubaneswar: The Fish and Animal Husbandry Convention in Bhubaneswar has turned the spotlight on the Punganur cow, a rare and indigenous miniature cattle breed known as the world’s smallest Indian zebuine breed.

The breed gained national recognition after a video of Prime Minister Narendra Modi petting a Punganur cow at his residence on Makar Sankranti, January 14, 2024, went viral on social media. This exposure has further fueled interest in the conservation and promotion of this unique breed.

Native to Andhra Pradesh, the Punganur cow stands at just 70-90 cm in height and weighs between 115-200 kg. Despite its small stature, it is highly valued for its ability to thrive on minimal fodder, making it an ideal choice for farmers in hot and dry climates.

Beyond its resilience, the Punganur cow is known for its rich and nutritious milk, producing around 3.5 liters per day with an impressive 8% ghee content. The breed holds cultural significance as well, with its ghee used in the preparation of the famous Tirupati Ladu.

At the convention, livestock farmers, dairy entrepreneurs, and conservationists have shown keen interest in the economic and environmental benefits of the breed. With increasing awareness about indigenous cattle and their role in sustainable dairy farming, the Punganur cow is gaining prominence as a symbol of India’s rich agricultural heritage and self-sufficient farming practices.