PUNGANUR COWS

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Context

• On the occasion of Makar Sankranti, PM Modi fed Punganur cows at his residence.

Punganur Cows

• The Punganur breed of cows is a small-sized indigenous breed primarily found in the Punganur region of Chittoor district in Andhra Pradesh.

Characteristics:

Size:

• Punganur cows are known for their small size, making them one of the smallest cattle breeds in the world.

Color:

• They are generally red or brown in color.

Horns:

• Punganur cows typically have short and straight horns.

Adaptability:

• These cows are well-adapted to local environmental conditions and are known for their hardiness.

Utility:

• Primarily used for milk production, they are considered good milkers for their size.

Conservation Status:

• Punganur cows are classified as a "rare" breed by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. Efforts are being made to conserve and promote this indigenous breed.

Importance:

• The conservation of indigenous cattle breeds like Punganur is essential for maintaining biodiversity and preserving genetic resources.

PRACTICE QUESTION Question: Why are Punganur cows considered significant in the context of biodiversity conservation? a) They are known for their unique horn shapes. b) They are one of the largest cattle breeds globally. c) They are classified as a "rare" breed, emphasizing their importance for genetic diversity. d) They are primarily used for wool production. Answer: c) They are classified as a "rare" breed, emphasizing their importance for genetic diversity.