Yaks

Scientific Name

Bos grunniens (Domesticated Yak), Bos mutus (Wild Yak)

Common Names

Tartary Ox, Grunting Ox, Hairy Cattle

Regions Found

Himalayan region (Gilgit-Baltistan, Nepal, Sikkim), Tibetan Plateau, Tajikistan, Mongolia, Siberia

Physical Characteristics

Heavily built with long fur, sturdy legs, and cloven hooves. Wild yaks are dark-colored, while domestic yaks have varied colors. Bulls have long, curved horns; cows have shorter, upright horns.

Weight

Males: 350-585 kg (772-1,290 lb); Females: 225-255 kg (496-562 lb); Wild bulls can reach up to 1,000 kg (2,200 lb).

Height at Withers

Males: 111-138 cm (44-54 in); Females: 105-117 cm (41-46 in)

Physiology

Adapted to high altitudes with larger lungs and heart, greater oxygen transport, thick subcutaneous fat, and minimal sweat glands. Struggle at low altitudes and high temperatures.

Reproduction

Mating occurs between July-September. Gestation lasts 257-270 days, resulting in one calf. Calves are weaned at one year, and females usually give birth every other year.

Husbandry

Domesticated for milk, fibre, meat, and as beasts of burden. Yaks' milk is used for making butter tea and cheese. Droppings are used as fuel.

Hybridization

Crossbreeding with domestic cattle in Nepal, Tibet, and Mongolia produces infertile males (dzo) and fertile females (dzomo). Second-generation crosses are primarily for meat production.

Research and Domestication

ICAR-National Research Centre on Yak established in 1989 in Arunachal Pradesh, India. Domestication evidence dates back to 2,500 years BP.

BORDER ISSUES AND BORDER COMMUNITIES

Rising Tensions and Ongoing Conflict

In recent years, India has expressed growing concerns over the mobilization of Chinese troops and equipment along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh. Relations between India and China deteriorated significantly in 2020 following a violent clash between troops in the Galwan Valley. Efforts to restore the status quo included multiple rounds of talks aimed at disengagement along the LAC, with the latest corps commander-level meeting taking place in July 2022 at the Chushul border. Despite these efforts and assurances from both governments, the LAC remains tense, leading to adverse effects on the livelihoods of border dwellers and herders.

Impact on Border Communities

Border villages in Ladakh, such as Chushul, Chumur, Dungti, Phobrang, and Demchok, have experienced unrest and Chinese incursions since the 1962 Sino-Indian War. The undefined border between the two countries has perpetuated disputes, with the Changpas—nomadic pastoralists living along the LAC—bearing the brunt of the conflict. They face restricted access to grazing grounds due to Chinese surveillance and Indian border agreements that limit their movement.

Challenges for the Changpas

The Changpas face dual challenges: first, their livestock, crucial for their livelihood, are restricted from grazing in traditional areas due to Chinese military presence. Second, they are excluded from Indian development schemes because of the region's remoteness and political sensitivity. The ongoing military tensions and shrinking pastures, compounded by harsh climatic conditions, further threaten their way of life.

Erosion of Traditional Grazing Lands

China’s incremental marking of territory in Ladakh and development of infrastructure in disputed areas have led to a reduction in available grazing land for Indian herders. This has pushed many cattle out into the cold, with significant livestock deaths reported. The shrinking pastures and declining cattle populations threaten the livelihood of border communities and the Pashmina wool sector.

Need for Immediate Intervention

If the interests of the Changpas are not addressed, there is a risk of mass migration from border villages, potentially weakening India's strategic position. The Changpas play a critical role as local informants, providing vital intelligence to the Indian army. Establishing effective communication channels between border communities and the military is crucial for protecting India's interests and ensuring timely responses to Chinese incursions.

Lack of Development in Border Villages

Despite Ladakh’s prominence as a tourist destination, border villages lack basic infrastructure such as roads, communication services, and electricity. These areas receive minimal attention from civil administration, exacerbating the challenges faced by residents. Protests from border villagers regarding infrastructure deficits and military restrictions often go unheard due to limited media coverage and communication channels.

Towards a Comprehensive Ladakh Policy

India views China's ongoing actions in Ladakh as undermining past political compromises and confidence-building measures. There is a pressing need for India to reassess its policy towards China, with a particular focus on Ladakh. The migration of herders to larger towns like Leh highlights the urgency of developing a fresh strategy that addresses both national security and the livelihoods of local communities.

Engaging with Local Communities

India must prioritize engagement with border communities and involve local experts and government bodies in formulating a new policy. There is also a need to address the developmental disparities between Leh and the frontier villages, with a focus on improving infrastructure and integrating these areas into the mainstream. Given the anticipated continued militarization of the LAC, investing in and supporting border communities should be a central element of India’s strategy.

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Analyze the impact of the ongoing Sino-Indian border tensions on the livelihoods of border communities in Ladakh. What are the primary challenges faced by these communities due to the conflict, and what measures should India consider to address these challenges and improve conditions in the border villages?