Introduction
The per capita consumption of beef / buffalo in India is 2.8 kg, about
half that of fish, but more than twice the average intake of mutton,
pork and poultry. According to statistics compiled by the Food and
Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the total number
of animals slaughtered for meat in India rose from 66,299,600 head in
1980 to 106,239,000 head in 2000, nearly doubling. There was a rise in
the total number of cows and buffaloes slaughtered for meat in India
from 15,644,000 head in 1980 to 24,300,000 head in 2000, an increase in
total
beef meat and
buffalo meat production of 1,673,972
in 1980 to 2,863,400 in 2000.
Production area
It should be kept in mind that due to social reasons, the consumption
of buffalo meat is restricted in India. While over 70% of Indians are
non- vegetarian by choice or religious belief, consumption of beef and
pork is limited. The slaughter of cow / Bull is prohibited in all but
two states (Kerala and West Bengal). Although more emphasis is given on
beef imports and states of Hyderabad, Delhi, Mumbai and others
metropolis do witness beef production.
Growth promotional activities
India is trying to build markets for
animal meat, Indian
buffalo meat in Indonesia, South Africa, and the Commonwealth of
Independent States (CIS). Exports of
animal meat products
continue to grow at a fast clip. The allocation for various program in
meat sector have been increased from Rs.1384 crores to Rs.1804 crore.
Establishment of National Meat Board to implement, monitor and guide
developmental programs in Meat Sector. An estimated cost of Rs. 2 crores
to be shared by GOI, Meat Exporters and Leather Exporters in the ratio
of 50:25:25. Review of State Animal Preservation Acts and suggest
Amendments in view of the changing Animal Production and Utilization
Scenario. Restrictions on slaughter of buffaloes should be removed.
However, pragmatic age limit for slaughter of bullocks and removal of
ban on beef export to improve cow economy and prospects of cattle.
Types
Beef meat available in India is the meat of the water buffalo.
The meat consumed is generally lamb or goat, poultry etc. However, per
capita consumption of meat, fish and poultry is far below that of the
developed countries.
