Feb 10: In a significant milestone for freight transportation and agricultural development, the Jammu Division of Northern Railway has successfully transported 23 exotic breed bulls from Bengaluru to Jammu and Kashmir, marking a first-of-its-kind initiative in the region.
Of the total consignment, six high-quality bulls were unloaded at the Bari Brahmana goods shed in the Jammu division, while the remaining 17 bulls were delivered at the Budgam goods shed in the Kashmir division. The transportation was carried out safely through railway parcel vans, showcasing the railways’ expanding role beyond conventional freight movement.
This initiative forms part of the breeding development programme of the Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Departments, with logistical support provided by the railways. Traditionally used for transporting commodities such as automobiles, apples, steel and food grains, freight trains are now being innovatively utilized for livestock transportation, reflecting a diversification of railway freight services.
Officials said the long-distance movement of these valuable animals through rail ensured cost-effective, safe and timely delivery, even amid challenging weather conditions. Compared to road transport, rail-based freight significantly reduces logistical expenses while minimizing stress and risk to the animals.
The arrival of these high-quality foreign-breed bulls is expected to play a transformative role in improving local cattle genetics in Jammu and Kashmir. Experts believe that cross-breeding with superior stock will lead to a substantial increase in milk production capacity, strengthening the region’s dairy value chain.
Beyond logistics, the initiative is being viewed as a game-changer for Kashmir’s dairy economy. Enhanced milk yields are likely to improve the livelihoods of local dairy farmers, raise household incomes, and contribute to long-term rural economic growth. Officials stated that the move aligns with broader efforts to modernize agricultural and animal husbandry practices in the Union Territory.
The successful operation also highlights the evolving capabilities of Indian Railways in supporting developmental initiatives by providing innovative freight solutions. The use of parcel vans for livestock transport opens up new avenues for farmers and government departments to transport high-value agricultural assets efficiently over long distances.
With reduced costs, increased reliability and improved safety standards, the rail-based livestock transportation model is expected to be replicated in the future. Stakeholders believe this initiative will usher in a new phase of the ‘White Revolution’ in Jammu and Kashmir, reinforcing the dairy sector as a key pillar of the region’s agrarian economy.
