Status of Badri Cow (Cattle 2400 Badri 03040) Rearing and Management in Selected Mountain Districts of Uttarakhand, India

Abstract

The indigenous cattle of Uttarakhand, specifically the Badri breed, have become the first certified cattle breed of Uttarakhand, as listed under accession no. INDIA CATTLE 2400 BADRI 03040 by the ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal, India. This first-ever registered breed of Uttarakhand is short-statured, sturdy, adapted to the hilly terrain, and primarily reared for milking. Because of its low rearing cost and disease-resistant characteristics, this breed is the backbone of a hill farmer's economy. It also helps ensure nutritional security for Uttarakhand's local population, including those involved in agricultural operations. A multi-district survey was conducted across five districts of the Kumaun region (Nainital, Almora, Bageshwar, Champawat, and Pithoragarh), Uttarakhand, India, using a structured questionnaire administered to 63 cow herders. A total of 594 Badri cattle were surveyed and 63 milk samples were collected for nutritional evaluation. Key findings indicate that Badri cattle produce 1-4 kg of milk per day, with lactation periods ranging from 5 to 18 months. Over 70% of farmers across all districts preferred indigenous breeds over exotic or hybrid alternatives. Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) was the most prevalent health condition reported. This study establishes baseline data on population structure, coat colour diversity, morphometric traits, disease prevalence, and farmer perceptions, underscoring the ecological fitness and socio-economic significance of this indigenous breed. Targeted research on selective breeding, nutritional profiling, probiotic potential of curd and antimicrobial properties of cow urine is strongly recommended to enhance conservation and market value of Badri cattle.