[radikal]

Namaskara. This discussion of Sri Krishna and milk cows brought to mind the lines "brahmanya devAya go-brAhmana hitAya ca/jagaddhitAya......"

Of course, the "go" here means several things, in addition to cows, e.g. gAm iti vedalakShaNAm, etc. But certainly, "cows" included!

Since the Holy Lord is engaged in the "hita" of brahmanas, and of the entire universe, the brahmana samaja can certainly follow the example set by Him and engage in the "hita" of cows and all other beings as well.

It occurred to me, and I say this with great humility, that the Tamil brahman samaja can set a shining example for India by creating a truly effective dairy research program. We lack an effective modern program that researches the milk quality of the various Indian breeds and attempts to link this up with modern advances in the genomics of the milk cow. Owing to vigorous "triple cross" programs, indiscriminate & ongoing slaughter of the best lactating animals in urban dairies, and export of breeding stock, our native breeds are in great danger in spite of current interest and even hoopla surrounding them.

There are important thermodynamic issues surrounding the milk production and physiology of the Indian humped cattle that is physiologically different from the Bos taurus or humpless cattle of Europe. Our cattle have geentics for higher fat content but less milk volume, which places them at a disadvantage in the modern market economy. This is a fundamental thermodynamic and genetic issue. Thus we need the support of the brahman samaj for research into milk fat and organoleptic qualities of the Vechur, the Gir, and other Indian breeds.

We then need to link up with other Indian brahman groups, which will have their pride injured by being beaten [AGAIN!] by the Tamils in a progressive and remarkable idea: the well-being of cows. Of course there will be great approbation from ALL religious bodies, and this will snowball.

We need to do this, because our Government is profoundly against the Sanatana Dharma, and every symbol or idea connected with the Dharma. So are large sections of the modern or English educated people, including officials & intellectuals, some of them Tamil brahmans like the current editorial staff in a famous Chennai English daily. Some group needs to take a stand, and it is my feeble hope that here one migh find enough sympathetic souls to spread the word. Pray forgive me if I have offended anyone inadvertently.

Namaskara.