Names: White Sindhi, Grey Sindhi, Thari
Conservation status: Not Endangered
Country of origin: India
Distribution: Thar Desert region of Rajasthan, India
Use: dual-purpose dairy
Tharparkar, often simply called Thar, is a district in the Sindh province of Pakistan, with its main town being Mithi. Before India gained independence, the area was known by different names over time—between 1901 and 1947, it was called Thar and Parkar, and even earlier, from 1860 to 1901, it went by the name Eastern Sindh Frontier District.
Tharparkar cattle are mainly raised for their milk, but they’re also strong and sturdy enough to be used for draught work, like pulling carts or plows. What makes them stand out is their toughness and ability to adapt to harsh, dry climates. Plus, for their size, they produce quite a bit of milk, which makes them a valuable breed in challenging environments.
Tharparkar cows are appreciated for being reliable milk producers. On average, they give about 8 to 15 liters of milk a day, and with the right care, some can produce even more. Their milk is of good quality too, with around 4% fat and a solid amount of protein, which makes it great for making ghee, butter, and other traditional dairy products that are a big part of everyday life in the region.
Tharparkar cows tend to mature early, usually reaching breeding age around 2 to 2.5 years. They're known for being quite fertile, with short gaps between calvings and a high success rate when it comes to giving birth. That makes them a dependable choice for farmers who count on both milk and calves for their livelihood.
Another thing that makes this breed special is its ability to conserve water—a huge advantage in dry, drought-prone areas. This natural trait helps them survive even when water is scarce, making them well-suited for tough, arid environments.