The Rathi cattle breed is a well-known source of income for dairy farmers, especially farmers in desert areas of Rajasthan. It’s one of the top 10 highest milk-producing indigenous cow breeds. Besides this, it is a significant dual-purpose desi cow breed popularly known for its milking and is reared for a draught. The two locally known variants of this cattle are Rathi & Rath. The Rathi is a Bos indicus cow breed utilized in the dairy segment and draft. Rath is a pure milch variant.
The name of Rathi cattle is derived from a pastoral group called Raths, who prefer to cherish a nomadic lifestyle and belong to the tribe of Muslims of Rajput descent. The breeding tract of this breed is nestled in the Jaisalmer, Bikaner, and Ganganagar districts of Rajasthan and the heart of the Thar Desert. It is said that they are the outcome of crossbreeding of Red Sindhi, Sahiwal, Dhanni, and Tharparkar breeds with a Sahiwal bloodline heavy in appearance and size. You can find them in reasonable numbers in Lunkaransar Tehsil, situated in the Bikaner district, usually known as the Rathi tract.
Despite the scarcity of water in Rajasthan, lack of facilities, and less availability of green fodder, the milk yielding capacity of cows is somewhat close to the milk production capacity of Sahiwal cows. They are popularly regarded as a distant cousin of the Sahiwal breed. Its phenotype resembles the phenotype of the Sahiwal cow. Besides this, patches on their body make them look like Gir cows up to a certain extent. Rathi Cattle breed belongs to the family of Indigenous Indian cows that are productive and excellent milkers at the same time.
This Bos indicus breed originated from Ganganagar, Hanumangarh, and Bikaner districts in Rajasthan state. Its home tract is mainly Lunkaransar Tehsil, Bikaner. Different places in Karnataka, such as Ballari, Kalaburagi, Sandur, etc., are suitable for the Rathi Cattle breed. Mahajan, Arjansar, Bhadra, Suratgarh, Pilibanga, Nohar, etc., are different places known for the origin of this breed.
The characteristics of the Rathi Cattle breed are mentioned below-
The Rathi cattle breed is used for dual purposes. As they are one of the highest milk producing breeds and are efficient in terms of yielding milk, they are utilized for producing milk. Besides this, they are utilized for draught purposes.
When it comes to milk production capacity, Rathi cows have proved their worth. In some cases, they have given tough competition to Sahiwal cows as well. On average, Rathi cows yield 5-10 Ltr milk per day. There were some rare instances when Rathi cows produced 15-20 Ltr milk per day. The lactation milk yield of this cattle breed ranges from 1500-3000 Ltr.
It’s a known fact that Rathi cows have failed to steal the limelight even though they are more adaptable to diverse climatic changes. As per National Dairy Development Board (NDDB)[1] officials, the perfect climatic condition of the Marathwada and Vidarbha regions will meet the requirements of the Rathi Cattle breed. These two regions are known for their dry climates and open grazing-free zone for summers.
The benefits of Rathi cow milk are showcased below-
Effective against Stomach Discomfort
Rathi cows yield A2 milk that includes A2 Beta-casein protein. Its consumption is helpful against stomach discomfort and constipation. Regular intake of A2 Rathi cow milk will bring significant improvement in gastrointestinal symptoms. The feeling of bloating will go away once you start consuming A2 milk.
Prevents and Manages Arthritis
Drinking A2 milk will be beneficial in the prevention and management of Arthritis. Since milk is known for strengthening the bones, it is capable of slowing down the progress of Arthritis. It also reduces the inflammation in joints.
Reduces Oxidative Stress
Disease-fighting antioxidant Glutathione is present in Rathi cow milk in sufficient quantity. It is responsible for making the immunity system proactive against pathogens. The presence of Magnesium, along with Glutathione, reduces oxidative stress when this form of natural goodness is consumed on a frequent basis.
Aids in Oral Health
A high concentration of minerals and vitamins, along with the presence of Calcium and Phosphorus in A2 milk, ensures improvement in oral health. It provides protection to tooth enamel. Thus, it’s better to include it as part of the daily diet regime.
Enhances Memory and Concentration Power
The problem of forgetting and the inability to remember for a long time is common these days. In order to tackle this problem, A2 milk obtained from desi cows can be highly effective. Natural antioxidants present in it boost memory power and improve the ability to concentrate and focus better.
Prevents Neurological Impairment
Its regular intake will help in the prevention of neurological impairment. As A1 milk worsens the symptoms of neurological disorders, A2 milk obtained from the Rathi cattle breed is a better and preferred option. Cerebrosides in it work well in the treatment of problems pertaining to the brain.
Reduces Risk of Heart Disease
Several studies conducted in the past have found possible evidence of milk produced from foreign cow breeds, i.e., A1 milk, as a factor that leads to Coronary Heart Disease. Omega-3 Fatty Acids in A2 milk keeps Triglyceride level under control and thereby minimizing the possibility of stroke and heart-related ailments.
Clears the Accumulated Fat Deposits
A high concentration of Conjugated Linoleic Acid clears the layers of fat deposits around the liver & heart. Removal of fat deposits will keep your health in a better state.
Rathi Cattle Breed Profile
| Indigenous Cattle Breed |
| Rathi Cow |
| Specialty- Milking Potential & Draught Purpose |
| Milk Type- A2 Milk |
| Breed Size- Medium |
| Climate Bearing Ability- All Climates |
| Average Milk Yield- 5-10 Ltr per day |
| Horned- Yes |
| Origin Place- Rajasthan, India |
Rathi Cattle Breed is highly productive and consistent in milking with multi-climatic tolerance potential. This breed is popularly known as the queen of Rajasthan. After witnessing a decline in its population, many dairy farmers and Gausevaks are coming ahead to preserve this precious indigenous cattle breed. At SwadeshiVIP, we are winding up this write-up with a message for all gausevaks that we must work for the conservation of desi cow breeds such as Gir, Sahiwal, Rathi, Tharparkar, etc. We need the support of Indian people as well since the Cow protection movement can only be successful if people will keep consuming their milk and other dairy products obtained by using their milk and saying no to packet milk and milk obtained from the foreign cow breed.
Read our Article: Tharparkar Cow: Characteristics, Benefits, and Cost
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