The Surti Buffalo, one of India’s most iconic dairy breeds, holds a special place in the hearts of farmers and dairy enthusiasts across the country. Hailing from Gujarat, this breed is renowned for its excellent milk production, adaptability, and calm temperament. With its origins deeply rooted in India’s rich agricultural heritage, the Surti plays a crucial role in sustaining the livelihoods of rural families and supporting local economies.
In this article, you can read the unique qualities of the Surti Buffalo, its importance in the dairy industry, and the best practices for care and management. Whether you are a seasoned farmer or just curious about dairy farming, this guide will provide you with valuable insights into this remarkable breed.
Origin of Surti Buffalo Breed : A Gujarat Legacy
The Surti Buffalo breed originates from the fertile plains of Surat, Gujarat. Its name comes from this very region, where it has been selectively bred by local farmers for its high milk yield and robust constitution. Over time, the Surti Buffalo has become a symbol of sustainable farming, not only in Gujarat but across other states as well.
Farmers have long appreciated this breed for its ability to adapt to varying environmental conditions, making it a reliable choice for dairy production in different regions of India. Their strong connection to the local agricultural practices has made the Surti Buffalo an integral part of Gujarat’s dairy industry.
Surti Buffalo Characteristics
This Buffalo stands out due to its distinct physical features and high milk production capabilities.
- Appearance: Surti Buffalos are medium to large in size, with a dark, often black coat. Their robust frame and broad horns give them a powerful yet graceful look.
- High Milk Yield: Known for producing rich, creamy milk, Surti Buffaloes provide milk that is ideal for dairy products like butter and ghee due to its high-fat content.
- Adaptability: These animals thrive in various climates and are known for their resilience in extreme weather conditions. Their wide-set eyes and a prominent hump over the shoulders contribute to their adaptability.
- Calm Temperament: Surti Buffalos are known for their gentle and calm nature, making them easy to handle and perfect for family-run farms.
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Surti Buffalo Price
The price of a Surti Buffalo can change based on things like its age, health, how much milk it gives, and where you buy it. Usually, the price of a Surti Buffalo in India is between ₹50,000 and ₹1,00,000.
Some important things that affect the price are:
- Milk Production: Buffaloes that give more milk, especially those giving around 6 to 8 liters per day, usually have a higher price.
- Age: Younger buffaloes, which are in their best milking years, cost more than older ones.
- Health: A buffalo that is healthy, with proper vaccinations and no past diseases, will be more expensive.
- Location: Prices can be different depending on the area. In places where dairy farming is common, buffaloes may be more costly due to high demand.
Buffaloes with very high milk production or from famous breeders can be even more expensive than the usual range.
The Care Essentials for Surti Buffalo
Ensuring that your Surti Buffalo is well-cared for is key to maintaining their health and productivity. Below are the important aspects to focus on:
1. Diet and Nutrition
A well-balanced diet is crucial for the health of the Surti Buffalo. Their feed should include green fodder, roughage, and grain concentrates. Some ideal fodder options include Napier grass and legumes like lucerne. Additionally, grains such as maize, wheat, and barley are essential for providing the energy needed for milk production.
Minerals play an important role as well. Adding supplements or salt licks ensures that the buffaloes receive adequate vitamins and minerals, particularly calcium and phosphorus, which are essential during lactation. Fresh water must always be available, as hydration directly impacts milk yield.
2. Housing
Providing a clean, well-ventilated shelter is essential for the comfort of the Surti Buffalo. The housing should have good airflow, especially in warmer climates, to prevent heat stress. Elevated floors and proper drainage systems will help keep the area dry during monsoon seasons, which reduces the risk of diseases.
Bedding made of straw or sawdust ensures that the buffaloes are comfortable and protected from moisture. Regular cleaning of the shelter is necessary to maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of infections.
3. Health and Disease Management
Surti Buffalos, like other livestock, can be susceptible to common diseases such as mastitis and foot-and-mouth disease. Regular health check-ups and vaccinations are essential for keeping your herd healthy.
- Mastitis: This bacterial infection affects milk production. Signs include swelling in the udder (स्तन) and changes in milk consistency. Antibiotic treatment is often necessary to manage this condition.
- Foot-and-Mouth Disease: A contagious disease that affects the hooves and mouth, causing fever and lesions. Immediate veterinary care is required to manage outbreaks.
Vaccinations and preventive measures play a crucial role in protecting Surti Buffalos from diseases and ensuring they remain productive.
Surti Buffalo Milk Per Day & Maximizing Milk Production
Surti Buffaloes are famous for giving a good amount of milk, usually between 5 to 7 liters per day when they are properly cared for and fed. Their milk is also special because it has a high fat content of 7 to 8%, making it perfect for making butter, ghee, and cheese.
However, how much milk a Surti Buffalo gives each day can depend on a few things Like:
- Diet and Nutrition: Giving them the right food, including enough fodder, grains, and minerals, helps them produce more milk.
- Health Care: Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and proper treatment when they are sick are important to keep their milk production steady.
- Environment: Keeping them in a clean, well-ventilated, and calm place helps them give more milk.
- Breeding Practices: Selecting buffaloes that naturally give more milk can help increase their milk output.
- With proper care, some Surti Buffaloes can even give up to 8 liters of milk a day during their best milking period.
How Can Farmarmers Increasing the Value of Surti Buffalo Products
Farmers can increase the price of Surti Buffalo milk and its products by focusing on quality and branding like:
- High-Quality Milk: Improving the fat content and overall quality of the milk through better feeding and breeding practices will raise the product’s market value.
- Brand Visibility: Promoting Surti Buffalo milk on social media platforms by showcasing its richness and authenticity can attract a premium price from consumers who value organic and traditional dairy products.
- Diversification: Instead of selling raw milk, consider creating value-added products like ghee, yogurt, or cheese, which can fetch higher prices.
- Cooperative Approach: Forming cooperatives can strengthen farmers’ bargaining power when negotiating prices with retailers, ensuring fair compensation for high-quality products.
Conclusion
The Surti Buffalo is a true gem of India’s dairy industry, contributing significantly to milk production while holding cultural and economic importance. With their high-fat content milk, adaptability, and calm nature, these buffaloes are invaluable assets to farmers. By ensuring proper care, diet, and health management, and leveraging quality and branding, Surti Buffalo products can command a higher price in India’s competitive dairy market.
For any dairy farmer or enthusiast, the Surti Buffalo represents not just livestock but a legacy of India’s rich agricultural heritage.
