Context
The Union Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying has announced plans to establish a Centre of Excellence for the conservation and development of Siri cattle in Sikkim. The initiative aims to support the conservation of this indigenous cattle breed.
About Siri Cattle
- Type: Indigenous, dual-purpose cattle breed, used for both draught work and milk production.
- Origin and Distribution: Native to the Eastern Himalayan region, mainly found in Sikkim, Darjeeling hills of West Bengal and Bhutan.
- Other Name: Also known as Trahbum.
- Adaptation: A small-sized, draught-purpose breed suited to the hilly terrain of Sikkim and West Bengal.
Key Physical Features
- Colour: Generally black or brown with white patches, although completely black or brown animals are also found.
- Hump: Has a cervico-thoracic hump, often covered with tufts of hair.
- Horns: Medium-sized horns that curve outward, forward and slightly upward, with sharp, pointed tips.
Economic Importance and Uses
- Draught Power: Males are mainly used for agricultural and other draught purposes in hilly areas. In some regions, they are the only available source of draught power.
- Milk Production: The breed produces relatively small quantities of milk, averaging around 425.8 kg per lactation.
- Milk Fat Content: Milk fat percentage ranges from approximately 2.8% to 5.5%.
Significance of Conservation
- Preservation of Indigenous Breeds: Helps protect India’s native livestock genetic resources.
- Agricultural Support: Preserves a locally adapted source of draught power for hilly farming communities.
- Livestock Development: A Centre of Excellence can support research, breed improvement and scientific conservation.
Conclusion
Siri cattle are an important indigenous livestock resource of the Eastern Himalayan region. Establishing a Centre of Excellence can strengthen their conservation while supporting sustainable livestock development in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is Siri cattle, and where is it found?
Siri is an indigenous, dual-purpose cattle breed of the Eastern Himalayas. It is mainly found in Sikkim, the Darjeeling hills of West Bengal and Bhutan, and is also known as Trahbum.
Q2. What are the major physical features of Siri cattle?
Siri cattle are generally black or brown with white patches. They have a cervico-thoracic hump, often covered with hair tufts, and medium-sized horns that curve outward and forward.
Q3. What are the major uses of Siri cattle?
Siri cattle are used for both draught work and milk production. Males mainly support agricultural activities in hilly areas, where they may be the only available source of draught power.
