Planning an A2 milk dairy in Gujarat. Confused between Gir and Sahiwal for yield, heat tolerance and milk price.
3 Answers
Both Gir and Sahiwal are indigenous breeds that give A2 milk, and both suit hot dry conditions well. A good Gir cow typically gives around 8 to 12 litres per day in a lactation, sometimes more with selected genetics, while Sahiwal usually gives around 8 to 14 litres with good feeding. Gir milk often fetches a premium in the A2 market and the breed is very heat tolerant and tick resistant, which suits Saurashtra. Sahiwal generally has slightly higher average yield and a calmer temperament. For an A2 brand in Gujarat, Gir is the popular local choice with strong buyer recognition. Buy animals with milk records and have them examined by a veterinarian before purchase.
I keep Gir in Rajkot and sell A2 milk directly to customers. Yield is lower than HF but the price per litre is much higher and feed cost is manageable. Pick from a known herd with records.
I run Sahiwal cows near Junagadh and find them very steady milkers with an easy temperament, which makes hand milking and handling simple. They handle our summers without much fuss. If your buyers do not specifically ask for Gir, Sahiwal can give you a slightly higher average yield for the same feed.