Question

What are the important categories of cows? Give significant features of each one of them. 

Answer 1

Cows are classified into three important categories according to their principal use.

1. Draught breeds

1. These are strong and sturdy animals used mainly for agricultural work.
2. Their bullocks draw carts, plough fields and transport materials.
3. The cows generally yield less milk. Examples include Malvi and Nageri.

2. Dairy (milch) breeds

1. These breeds are selected for high milk production.
2. Their bullocks are generally not suitable for heavy draught work.
3. Examples include Red Sindhi, Gir and Sahiwal.

3. Dual-purpose breeds

1. These breeds provide a useful combination of milk production and draught ability.
2. The cows are fair milk yielders, while the bullocks can be used for agricultural work.
3. Examples include Tharparkar, Dangi, Deoni and Haryana.

The category selected depends on whether the primary need is milk, farm labour or both.