PM Modi Feeds Punganur Cows On Makar Sankranti, Here’s Why You Should Adopt This ‘Golden’ Breed Makar-Sankranti, the festival marking the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn, is celebrated with fervor and joy across India. In a unique celebration, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been making headlines by feeding Punganur cows on this auspicious day. This ‘Golden’ breed holds a special place in his heart, and there’s much to learn and appreciate about the significance of this gesture.
PM Modi Feeds Punganur Cows On Makar Sankranti, Here’s Why You Should Adopt This ‘Golden’ Breed
The Makar Sankranti Connection
Makar Sankranti witnessed Prime Minister Narendra Modi embracing the tradition of feeding Punganur cows at his New Delhi residence. This unique breed hails from Andhra Pradesh, showcasing its versatility by thriving even in apartment settings.
Punganur Cows: A ‘Golden’ Breed
Revered expert Dr. BL Chidananda describes the Punganur breed as a ‘gold mine.’ The milk from these cows contains the element Au, symbolizing gold, a fact utilized in religious practices in Andhra Pradesh temples.
Nutritional Value Beyond Gold
Highlighted by animal sciences experts, Punganur cow milk is a nutritional powerhouse. With high-fat content A2 milk, it offers essential nutrients like Omega fatty acids, calcium, potassium, and magnesium crucial for maintaining good health.
Quantity and Quality
A Punganur cow yields 1 to 3 liters of milk daily, boasting an 8% fat content compared to 3-4% in other native breeds. The milk’s quality is intricately linked to factors such as feed quality, genetics, and maintenance.
Beauty and Temperament
Known for their divine appearance, Punganur cows exhibit a unique glow in their eyes and stride. Beyond aesthetics, their docile nature and friendliness make them an excellent choice as pets, especially for families with children.
Prestige in Ownership
Owning a Punganur cow is a matter of prestige, with these bovines being maintained in temples, goshalas, and the homes of affluent landowners. Prices vary between Rs 1 lakh to Rs 10 lakh, reflecting the purity and health of the breed.
Cultural and Symbolic Significance
Cows, symbolizing prosperity and compassion, hold a sacred place in Hindu culture. Punganur cows, once on the brink of extinction, have been revived through Mission Punganur, aligning with cultural beliefs and practices.
Threat of Extinction and Conservation
Facing extinction due to the preference for higher milk-yielding hybrid breeds, Punganur cows witnessed a decline in numbers. Mission Punganur, launched in 2020, played a pivotal role in their conservation, involving efforts from the Andhra government and the PMO.
Revival and Cultural Importance
The resurgence of the Punganur cow, from near extinction to cultural significance, underscores the success of conservation initiatives. The breed’s adaptability, resilience to drought, and nutritional value make it a symbol of sustainability.
Conservation Initiatives
Efforts led by the Livestock Research Station Palamaner and Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University utilize advanced technologies like Embryo Transfer and In Vitro Fertilization to enhance reproductive efficiency and boost the breed’s population.
Prime Minister’s Nod to Conservation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s involvement in feeding and caring for Punganur cows highlights the breed’s importance. His participation in Pongal celebrations emphasizes the unity and cultural significance of this festival.
Sustainability Symbol
The Punganur cow serves as a beacon of sustainability, challenging resource-intensive agricultural practices. It signifies the wisdom in traditional farming, offering hope for the conservation of other indigenous breeds at risk.
Conclusion
In embracing the Punganur cow, Prime Minister Modi not only revives a unique breed but also reinforces cultural and environmental values. The success of Mission Punganur showcases the potential for conserving indigenous breeds and promoting sustainable practices.
FAQs
1. Can Punganur cows be raised in apartments?
Yes, the Punganur breed is diminutive and can thrive even in apartment settings, making them a feasible choice for urban dwellers.
2. What makes Punganur cow milk special?
Punganur cow milk is rich in nutrients, including high-fat content A2 milk, Omega fatty acids, calcium, potassium, and magnesium, contributing to its nutritional value.
3. Why are Punganur cows considered ‘divine’?
Beyond their physical beauty, Punganur cows are considered divine due to their docile temperament, friendliness, and their role in cultural and religious practices.
4. How much does a Punganur cow cost?
The cost of a Punganur cow can range between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 10 lakh, depending on factors like breed purity and overall health.
5. How did Mission Punganur contribute to the breed’s conservation?
Mission Punganur, launched in 2020, involved conservation efforts by utilizing advanced technologies like Embryo Transfer and In Vitro Fertilization to increase the reproductive efficiency of Punganur cows.