Thurupu cattle recognition soon

Recognition of ‘Thurupu’ cattle - indigenous to Nallamala region of Telangana State - as the State’s special breed may be around the corner.

Member-Secretary in-charge of Telangana State Biodiversity Board S. Srinivas has informed the process has reached an advanced stage and after a meeting this week with the Animal Husbandry department, it would be forwarded to the Centre. The process may be completed by the month-end, officials have informed.

A report has been commissioned by the Watershed Support Services and Activities Network (WASSAN) about the special status of the cattle, which will be forwarded to the National Board for Animal Genetic Resources for further course of action, including registration of cattle variety and preservation of the germplasm.

No cross breeding

Nearly two years ago, the Animal Husbandry department issued orders to its artificial insemination centres around Mannanur area, where the cattle originates, to stop cross breeding of Thurupu cattle with other hybrid varieties. This measure was taken to protect the species from extinction.

There are an estimated 25,000 cattle surviving in the forest area, distinguished by their brown/ red spots on white skin or white spots on light brown skin and straight, sharp horns.