Some animals and life forms have evolved integrally with man's economic and social lives. One glaring example in India is the native cow breeds of Southern Tamil Nadu. These breeds have been interwoven into life, livelihood, and tradition, making it impossible to segregate their lives from those of human beings around them. Their role in sustaining livelihoods, whether for ploughing fields or supplying milk to kids, has made them an essential part of the socio-cultural milieu. The economic importance they played elevated them to the point of being revered and worshipped. With traditions and land ownership undergoing drastic changes, these cows and bulls are being neglected, lost, and at the brim of a severe threat to their survival.
At GoPals, we understand that protecting native-breed cows is essential—not only for preserving agricultural traditions but also for safeguarding an important aspect of our cultural heritage. Many individuals who have observed the alarming decline in cattle populations have reached out to us, urging us to take the lead in reversing this trend. We recognise the importance of this mission and are committed to making a difference.
Just thirty years ago, the landscape looked completely different. Individual farms proudly managed herds of up to 200 cattle, while larger operations could support as many as 500 animals. Family estates, deeply rooted in their ancestral lands, typically maintained herds of 80 to 100 cattle. These figures represented more than mere livestock; they symbolised a living heritage passed down through generations.
Today, however, many of these cattle sheds stand empty. For instance, a family that once cared for over 500 cows in Kanyakumari district now has only a single cart cow. This dramatic decline began in the 1980s and intensified throughout the 1990s, leading to a profound transformation of our rural landscape.
Our field research uncovers a complex series of events contributing to this crisis. The traditional land ownership system has remained rigid and largely unchanged for 50 to 70 years. During the difficult times of the 1980s, when families lost their cattle, many also severed their ties to the land. One elder poignantly stated, “If the cattle went, the family left the next day. When they lost their cattle, they lost their lands.”
Several factors have contributed to this situation:
What we're observing goes beyond the mere disappearance of animals; it signifies the erosion of a cultural practice that has sustained communities for centuries. The decline of native-breed cattle has far-reaching implications for agriculture, the economy, and our cultural identity. If we don’t take action now, we risk losing a vital part of our heritage forever. Let us act N O W! Tomorrow could be a little too late!
At GoPals, we are dedicated to reversing this trend. Our initiatives include:
If you know of any native-breed cows in distress or have observed mistreatment in your area, we encourage you to get in touch with us. Your support can make a meaningful impact, whether through direct involvement or financial contributions. Every cow we save brings us closer to preserving our traditions and honouring the animals that have contributed so much to our way of life.
Headquarters:
GoPals Charitable Trust #78,
2nd Main Road, Kanaka Layout,
Banashankari 2nd Stage,
Bengaluru, Karnataka - 560070, INDIA.