India’s agricultural backbone has always been closely intertwined with its native cattle breeds. These indigenous cows are more than just livestock — they are symbols of sustainability, resilience, and nutrition. With growing awareness around high milk yielding cows in India, farmers are increasingly appreciating the value of native desi breeds that offer rich A2 milk, low input costs, and exceptional adaptability to local climates.
Here’s an insightful look at the Top 10 desi cows in India that every progressive farmer should consider when planning a dairy or mixed-farming venture:
1. Gir
Arguably the most famous Indian cow breed, Gir cows are celebrated for their excellent milk production and hardy nature. They are one of the prime examples of high milk yielding cows in India, producing nutritious A2 milk that caters to both rural and urban markets.
2. Punganur Cow
The Punganur cow is one of the rarest and most unique indigenous cattle breeds of India, originating from the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. Despite being the smallest desi cow breed in the world, Punganur cows hold immense cultural, medicinal, and economic value.
3. Red Sindhi
This heat-tolerant breed is well-adapted to varied Indian climates. Red Sindhi cows are known for good daily milk yields and a long lactation period, helping farmers manage sustainable dairy operations.
4. Tharparkar
A resilient breed from Rajasthan’s desert belt, Tharparkar cows combine drought hardiness and reliable milk yields, making them ideal for farmers in arid regions.
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5. Kankrej
A dual-purpose breed known for both strength and dairy potential, Kankrej cows provide reasonable milk volumes along with draught power — a valuable trait for small-scale farmers.
6. Rathi
Popular in Rajasthan’s Bikaner area, Rathi cows are lauded for their docile temperament and consistent milk yields, ranking them among reliable dairy choices in semi-arid conditions.
7. Hariana
Native to North India, particularly Haryana and surrounding states, Hariana cattle are known for balanced milk production and adaptability, suited to both intensive and free-range dairy systems.
8. Deoni
This breed from Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh performs well under extensive grazing and delivers moderate to good amounts of milk, making it suitable for farmers transitioning to commercial dairy models.
9. Krishna Valley
Originating from the black soil belt of Karnataka, Krishna Valley cows are recognized for solid milking capacity and robustness in harsher environmental conditions.
10. Vechur
Although small in size, the Vechur breed is prized for its unique genetics and the quality of milk. While not the highest yielding in volume, its milk is rich in nutrients and highly valued in niche dairy markets.
Why Indian Farmers Should Choose Desi Breeds
Indigenous cattle are not only culturally significant in India but also economically advantageous. These breeds:
- Produce A2 milk, which is easier to digest and increasingly demanded in health-conscious markets.
- Are disease-resistant and more suited to local climatic stressors.
- Require lower maintenance costs than many crossbred or exotic cattle.
- Support sustainable farming through organic manure and natural farm inputs.
By focusing on high milk yielding cows in India, indigenous breeds can help farmers enhance productivity, improve livelihoods, and tap into premium dairy markets that value A2 milk quality.
Final Thoughts
At Manu Shatrupa Foundation, we believe in empowering rural dairy farmers through knowledge and access to superior native cow breeds. Choosing the right desi cows — especially those known for high milk yields — can transform dairy farming into a profitable and sustainable enterprise.