Synonyms: Lola, Montgomery, Lambi-Bar, Multani
Sahiwal cow is one of the finest dairy cattle cow of India, originally hailing from the dry regions of central and southern Punjab, particularly the Montgomery district in present-day Pakistan. Over the years, this breed has been successfully reared in various parts of India including Punjab, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh, where several pedigree herds are now being maintained.
Breed Characteristics
Sahiwal cattle are known for their distinct physical features. The animals have a deep body with loose skin—hence the name “Lola”—along with short legs and a broad head. The horns are short, thick, and typically under 3 inches in length, with females often having loose horns. Their coat color ranges from pale red to deep reddish-brown, often splashed with white.
Males are easily identified by their massive hump, pendulous sheath, and voluminous dewlap. The tail is long and whip-like, almost reaching the ground with a black switch at the tip. Females show a prominent navel flap, and although the sheath is pendulous in males, it should not be excessively loose or elongated. On average, males weigh about 522 kg, while females weigh around 340 kg.
Milk Production and Utility
Sahiwal is considered one of the best milking zebu breeds in India. Under village conditions, a cow typically yields around 2,150 kg of milk during a 300-day lactation period. On well-managed farms, herd averages can reach between 4,000 to 5,000 kg per lactation. In addition to dairy performance, Sahiwal bullocks are valued for slow but steady draft work.
Wider Impact and Distribution
Today, Sahiwal cattle are maintained at several major institutions including the National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), the Government Dairy Farm in Lucknow, and R.B.S. College Farm in Agra. Their value is recognized internationally as well—Sahiwals have been exported to many tropical countries. In Jamaica, they have been crossed with Jersey cattle to develop the Jamaica Hope breed. In East Africa, they have played a key role in improving local Zebu populations.