SEVAI-OFI Volunteers cow project: “Jercy cross breed cows have greater economy of production”

Jercy cross cow in SEVAI-OFI Volunteers project

In SEVAI-OFI Cow farm, around 50 % of the mulching cows are Jercy cross. The role of cow in larger perspective of Indian society needs to be ecological sustainability and social importance, immediate past, current situation, and plan for future. Jersey cattle are a small breed, the breed is popular for the high butter fat content of its milk and the lower maintenance costs attending its lower body-weight, as well as its genial disposition. The Jersey cross cow is small, ranging from 400–500 kilograms. Under British rule Jerseys were transported to India  and cross bred with Asian breeds to improve the quality of milk produced by domestic breeds - the practice of importing pure bred Jerseys for cross-breeding continues to this day^. The main factor contributing to the popularity of the breed has been their greater economy of production, due to the ability to carry a larger number of effective milking cows per unit area due to lower body weight, hence lower maintenance requirements, and superior grazing ability, Calving ease and leading to their popularity in crossbreeding to reduce calving related injuries, High fertility, High butterfat conditions, 4.84% butterfat and 3.95% protein, and the ability to thrive on locally produced food. Jerseys are adaptable to hot climates. They are calm and docile animals, but tend to be a bit more nervous than other dairy cow breeds. They are also highly recommended cows for first time owners and marginal pasture. Jerseys are well known as curious and gentle cattle. Average Jersey milk production is about 5000 liters/lactation. This milk productivity also matches the best potentials of Indian cows’ milk production.-Govin