A modular, flexible cattle cage developed by researchers that can be adjusted to fit different vehicles, complete with a ramp that doubles as a door can help ease transport of cattle in villages, particularly take farm animals to the cattle market. In the heart of India’s rural landscapes, where cattle are vital companions to farmers, the journey from one town to another can often be perilous—not just for people, but for the animals.
Simultaneously, the Madras High Court has implemented strict regulations to enforce humane transport standards. These include adequate space, proper ventilation, regular access to food and water, and mandatory veterinary checks. The court’s guidelines aim to curb abusive practices such as overcrowding and the use of harmful stimulants during cattle transit.
In another related move, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched a pilot project to construct cattle shelters along highways. These shelters are expected to reduce road accidents caused by stray animals and offer basic facilities like water, fodder, and medical care. Contractors responsible for highway stretches will manage and maintain these shelters.
Technology is also playing a growing role in livestock management. In Kerala, an RFID-enabled tracking system is being used to monitor cattle health, activity, and breeding patterns in real time. Meanwhile, the Ridlan AI Foundation has introduced the “Gau Raksha Kavach,” an AI-powered pendant that provides health alerts and vaccination reminders via QR code.
In the private sector, JioGauSamriddhi has developed smart neck tags and a mobile app that allows farmers to track their cattle’s health, movement, and milk yield, further empowering India’s rural economy through precision livestock farming. These developments mark a critical shift in India’s approach to cattle welfare, blending legal oversight with digital innovation to improve safety, productivity, and animal well-being across the country.