Conserving Indigenous Cattle: Haryana Farm Champions 'Breed in India' With Semen and Embryo Exports

On a quiet farm near Sohna in Haryana, a unique blend of cows and cars tells a story not just of heritage, but of survival. While SUVs rest in the shade, the real pride of place goes to India's pure indigenous cattle breeds — Gir, Nari, Red Sindhi, Hariana, and Punganur — roaming the pastures of Gir Amritphal Gaushala.

But this isn’t just about nostalgia or reverence for native breeds. It's about economic viability and sustainable conservation, built not around milk or dung, but something far more modern: the marketing of frozen semen and embryos.

The Crisis of Indigenous Breeds

India has historically been home to over 50 well-documented indigenous cattle breeds. Yet, due to the preference for crossbred and exotic breeds — particularly Holstein Friesian and Jersey cows — many native varieties have suffered a dramatic decline.

Farmers often avoid indigenous cattle because:

• Milk yields are comparatively lower

• Commercial dung use is limited

• Feeding and maintaining bulls is expensive

But what if there was a way to generate revenue from breeding, not milking?

Rearing for Breeding: The New Model

Madan Mohan Yadav, President of the International Federation of Indigenous Zebu Cattle of India (IFIZCI), believes the future lies in "Breeding in India" — not just Make in India.

“We must allow the export of frozen semen and embryos of indigenous breeds. This not only promotes conservation but also offers farmers a lucrative revenue model,” Yadav told The Indian Express.

At Gir Amritphal Gaushala, located on a 20-acre plot, the focus is on maintaining the genetic purity of breeds. The farm boasts sophisticated semen collection facilities, embryo transfer labs, and has already seen international inquiries from South American and African buyers.

Which Breeds Are Being Conserved?

The farm houses several key indigenous breeds, each with unique characteristics:

• Gir: Known for high heat tolerance and good milk yield

• Red Sindhi: Adaptable to harsh climates

• Hariana: A dual-purpose breed used for both milk and draught work

• Punganur: One of the world’s smallest cow breeds, prized for its A2 milk

Each of these breeds holds potential for global breeding programs focused on disease resistance, climate resilience, and sustainable farming — particularly in the face of climate change.

Why Milk and Dung Aren’t Enough

Farmers rearing indigenous cattle often complain that:

• Milk yields of even the best native cows rarely exceed 8-10 litres/day, compared to 20+ litres in high-yielding foreign breeds.

• Cow dung, once a vital resource for rural energy and compost, now fetches little in commercial markets.

• Bull calves, often seen as an economic burden, are culled or abandoned.

With semen and embryo sales, however, even a non-milking bull becomes a valuable asset.

Government Support Still Lacking

Despite the potential, the sector faces multiple challenges:

• No clear policy for the export of cattle genetic material.

• Bureaucratic hurdles in breeding certification and registration.

• Lack of awareness among farmers on breed value and semen demand.

“We need urgent policy changes,” says Yadav. “Allowing exports and simplifying certifications can make India a global hub for indigenous cattle genetics.”

Global Demand for Zebu Cattle Genetics

Zebu cattle, known for their hump and heat resistance, are sought after in tropical regions. Their genes offer:

• Natural immunity to many parasitic diseases

• Adaptability to poor fodder and water scarcity

• Improved fertility in crossbreeding with local cattle abroad

Brazil, the Philippines, Ethiopia, and Nigeria are among the countries exploring partnerships or imports.

Cars Meet Cows: The Cultural Symbolism

Interestingly, the Gir Amritphal Gaushala also houses a collection of vintage and luxury cars, a nod to both India's modern aspirations and its rich pastoral past. It's a reminder that tradition and innovation don't have to be at odds.

The farm hosts visitors — both breeders and curious citizens — who are surprised to learn how cow breeding tech is evolving alongside AI-driven tractors and biotech-driven seeds.

Final Thoughts

As India grapples with the consequences of indiscriminate crossbreeding, farms like this Haryana gaushala are leading a quiet revolution — by creating economic incentives to preserve what was almost lost.

Breeding could very well become the lifeline of conservation, turning every indigenous bull and cow into a biological asset for the world, not just India.