TTD Pushes Indigenous Cow Breeding with Embryo Transfer Tech

 Nellore:  The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has intensified its efforts to preserve and promote indigenous cattle breeds by introducing Embryo Transfer Technology (ETT) at the Sri Venkateswara Gosamrakshana Shala in Tirupati, in collaboration with Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University. As a result, 47 high-quality Sahiwal calves have already been born, marking a major milestone in native cattle conservation. Announcing this during Gokulashtami celebrations on Saturday, TTD executive officer (EO) J. Syamala Rao said protecting indigenous cows was integral to both animal welfare and the safeguarding of India’s cultural heritage. “By safeguarding cows, we also safeguard our Hindu culture,” he said. The Goshala currently shelters 2,789 animals, including 1,827 cows and 962 bulls, along with elephants and horses. Daily cow worship is performed at Tirumala, Tirupati, Tiruchanur Goshalas and at the Sapta Go Pradakshina Mandiram near Alipiri. Milk, curd, butter and ghee from the Goshala are supplied for temple rituals as well as to pilgrims at the Vaikuntham Queue Complexes, infants, the elderly, Annaprasadam centres, TTD canteens, schools and hospitals. With donor support, 539 native cows have already been added to the Goshala, while another 500 indigenous breeds such as Gir, Kankrej, Tharparkar, and Red Sindhi will soon be brought in. TTD has also distributed cows and calves free of cost to 195 temples across India under its ‘Gudiko Gomata’ scheme, enabling devotees to perform cow worship at local temples. To ensure proper nutrition and enhance milk yield, TTD has established a ₹12.25 crore SV Cattle Feed Plant for balanced fodder production. A committee of experts has also been formed to guide cattle care, breeding, and welfare. The Gokulashtami celebrations featured special rituals, cultural programmes including Annamayya Sankeertanas, Bhajans, Kolatams and concluded with a Harikatha in the evening. Tirupati MLA Arani Srinivasulu, TTD officials, and a large number of devotees participated in the festivities.