History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c27.s3.t5.4

v1.c27.s3.t5.4

Cattle breeding apparently was one of the important aspects of animal husbandry practices in ancient India. The administrative authorities appeared to be fully aware of its importance. The king was enjoined to preserve the breed of cattle in the country and a government officer called Superintendent of Cattle was entrusted with the exclusive task of supervising the livestock in the country, keeping census and ensuring their proper breeding and rearing. He was also supposed to maintain a record (register) classifying the cattle as male calves, steers, tamable cows, draught oxen, yoke and breeding bulls, cattle fit for slaughter, buffaloes, female calves, heifers, pregnant cows, milch kine, barren cattle etc.