Well, this is quite a difficult choice you see as there are almost 40 well-defined breeds of cattle and 13 breeds of buffaloes. And narrowing down to six is quite a lot of job. Just so you know the breeds have evolved over generations. The reason why they are surviving is their adaptability to the harsh climatic conditions plus their ability to perform even on low-quality food. Coming back to the title, here are the top 6 cattle in India;
1. Gir
Also known as Kathiawar, Surati, Desan, Gujarati, Sorthi, and Bhadawari, it originated from Gir forest of the South Kathiawar. They can be found in Maharashtra as well as places adjacent to Rajasthan. As for their physical features, they have dark red or chocolate brown patches on their skin. Their horns are curved, appearing like a half moon. Typically, they can yield 1200-1800 kgs milk per lactation. This type of breed is best known for its disease resistance genes.
2. Red Sindhi
Often termed as Red Karachi, Sindhi, and Mahi, this breed originated from Karachi and Hyderabad of Pakistan (region of undivided India). They are also reared in a few organized farms in India. Mostly, they are red in color with white stripes. They are capable of yielding 1250 to 1800 kgs (lactation). Additionally, this kind of bullocks is used for fieldwork.
3. Sahiwal
Originating from Montgomery region of undivided India, it is also known as Teli, Lambi Bar, Multani, Lola (loose skin) and Montgomery. This is the best indigenous dairy breed with reddish dun or pale red skin and sometimes with white patches. Sahiwal is a heavy breed having loose skin. They can yield an average milk of 1400 and 2500 kgs per lactation.
4. Hallikar
Originating from Vijayanagarm, currently part of Karnataka, they are usually grey or dark grey in color. They are medium in size and are compact and muscular. Also, they have a prominent forehead, strong legs, and longhorns. Hallikar is best known for its trotting ability and draught capacity.
5. Amritmahal
Hailing from Chitradurga district of Karnataka, Hassan, and Chikmagalur, these are usually grey cattle; shades varying from white to black. They have long horns and sharp black points. And their muzzle, tail, and feet are black.
6. Khillari
Hailing from Sholapur and Sitapur districts of Maharashtra, this breed resembles Hallikar breed to a lot. Their skin color varies between grey and white. Significantly, they have long black horns that turn forward in a queer pattern. They are extremely powerful and fast.
