Hidden Gem of Indian Dairy Farming: Alambadi Cattle Breed

The domestication of animals was a significant event in Indian history, occurring 12,000 years ago. This led to the development of different cattle breeds in different places. One such breed in southern India is the Alambadi cattle breed, found in the Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri districts of Tamil Nadu and along the border of Karnataka state.

Over the years, the increasing utilisation of exotic breeds and the intensification of cattle farming have resulted in a massive downfall in the Alambadi cattle population. The importance of Alambadi cattle lies in their ability to work as draught animals, tolerate heat, resist diseases, adapt to harsh agricultural and climatic conditions, and survive with minimal feed and fodder.

History & Origin of Alambadi Cattle Breed

The Alambadi Cattle breed comes from the Southern regions of India, particularly the Tamil Nadu area. They were initially employed as working animals to till fields and transport goods. This robust breed is medium in size, with greyish-white fur and reddish-brown heads and backs. Their ears are longer than those of other breeds, which provides heat-dissipating benefits.

An Alambadi bull typically weighs around 650 kg, while a heifer can weigh up to 500 kg. These cattle are known for their ability to survive in areas with minimal rainfall due to their mental hardiness and resilience against diseases without much intervention from humans.

It is considered one of the rarest breeds globally; the Alambadi can survive in scorching temperatures and has remarkable disease resistance. However, the breed is now nearly extinct. During harvest times, the cattle are brought back to villages to graze in the harvested fields, providing necessary manure for the soil.

This native breed is named after a village known as Alambadi, situated on the banks of the Kaveri River in the Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu. The region provides ample uncultivated forest lands, offering abundant pasture and open grazing areas for the cattle. Alambadi cattle breed can also be found in the Erode district of Tamil Nadu. Raised in the hilly regions of Tamil Nadu, these cattle survive by grazing in forested areas. It is said that Alambadi cattle breed in the North are descendants of the Hallikar breed from Mysore.

Characteristics of Alambadi Cattle Breed

Alambadi cattle, originating in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, are highly valued as an Indian cattle breed and have traditionally been utilised as working animals. Its exceptional appearance and efficiency distinguish it from other cattle breeds, making it an attractive choice for any farming enterprise seeking success. Various initiatives have been undertaken to enhance and popularise Alambadi cattle breed, elevating its standing to a coveted asset for farmers and breeders.

1. These cattle are medium to large and have a reasonably deep but compact body. They have a loose frame, well-arched ribs, heavy shoulders, and tight skin.

• The body colours vary from grey, dark grey, and black to shades of fawn. Some individuals are flesh-coloured, while others have dark skin with a black muzzle. White markings can be seen on the forehead, limbs, and tail.

• The head is dark, moderately long, with a narrow face, and they have sweeping horns that curve backwards, ending in sharp points. The forehead is prominent and bulging. They have short, thick necks and a broad, thick dewlap. The ears are small and pointed.

• These cattle feature a reasonably large, well-developed hump and a generally small to medium penis sheath. The tail is medium-long, tapering to a black switch. The legs are short but intense, and the feet are large and complex with a prominent coronary band. The hindquarters are narrow and slope from the croup to the tail.

• On average, males are 124 cm tall and 134 cm long and weigh about 347 kg. Females are typically 115 cm tall and 124 cm long and weigh an average of 282 kg. The average chest circumference is 167 cm for males and 155 cm for females. The calving interval ranges from 16 to 24 months.

• It yields pure A2 desi cow milk beneficial for the health and well-being of the children and adults.

Role of Alambadi Cattle in Indian Farming

The Alambadi Cattle has been a draught animal for centuries, aiding farmers in labour-intensive farm tasks. However, modern breeders are working to increase the population of Alambadi Cattle by expanding its usage beyond just being a draught animal. They envision this breed playing a more integral role in Indian farming, particularly as the country’s agricultural output and demand grow.

 By recognising these animals’ hard work and unique capabilities, farmers can effectively integrate them into their farming operations, creating a sustainable system that enhances their crops and livelihoods.

Concluding Words

The Alambadi cattle breed is a distinct Indian breed with a rich heritage that needs to be preserved by improving access to resources and supporting farmers in Tamil Nadu. This breed of cattle plays a vital role as draught animals in Tamil Nadu’s agricultural heritage. It is an asset for both animal farming and agriculture.

However, farmers need more access to resources and improved infrastructure to raise their Alambadi cattle successfully. Supporting Tamil Nadu farmers through government aid, grants, and investor funding will help ensure the success of Alambadi cattle breed. These efforts will ensure that these remarkable cows continue positively contributing to farming life in India well into the future.

Frequently Asked Question