Latest news with #Sahiwal
Hans India
7 days ago
- General
- Hans India
SC junks plea for use of indigenous cow milk for Tirumala rituals
Tirupati: Hearing a petition that sought exclusive use of indigenous cow milk for rituals at the famed Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple in Tirumala, the Supreme Court declined to intervene, remarking that matters of devotion should not be confined by breed distinctions and urging the petitioner to approach the appropriate High Court instead. The petition was filed by Yuga Thulasi Foundation and others against TTD and others. A bench comprising Justices M M Sundaresh and N Kotiswar Singh, while hearing the matter, guided the petitioner to approach the respective High Court instead. 'A cow is a cow,' remarked Justice Sundaresh, underlining that distinctions based on cow breeds, languages, or regions are human constructs. 'God belongs to everyone. Can we then claim that God prefers only local cow milk?' he said, cautioning against injecting divisive interpretations into religious practices. The petitioner's counsel had argued that the Agama Shastras prescribe the use of milk from native Indian breeds in temple rituals and pointed out that TTD itself had previously passed a resolution supporting such practices. The plea, the lawyer insisted, was aimed at enforcing TTD's own stated commitment. However, the bench queried whether there was any binding legal framework backing such a demand. Upon being referred to prior constitutional judgments, the court was not convinced to admit the case and declined to interfere. 'Shall we also then ask whether Tirupati laddus should be made exclusively from indigenous ingredients?' Justice Sundaresh remarked in a lighter vein, before allowing the petitioner to withdraw the plea with the liberty to move the High Court. Justice Sundaresh said that devotion must manifest through compassion for all life forms rather than by creating artificial divides. 'Many pressing issues demand the court's attention. My observations were made with utmost respect to religious sentiments', he added. Meanwhile, it was learnt that the temple's cattle shelters house over 3,000 indigenous cows of breeds like Ongole, Gir, and Sahiwal. These cows already supply milk for rituals such as the sacred Abhishekam performed for the deity.
Hans India
7 days ago
- General
- Hans India
SC junks plea for use of indigenous cow milk at Tirumala rituals
Tirupati: Hearing a petition that sought exclusive use of indigenous cow milk for rituals at the famed Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple in Tirumala, the Supreme Court declined to intervene, remarking that matters of devotion should not be confined by breed distinctions and urging the petitioner to approach the appropriate High Court instead. The petition was filed by Yuga Thulasi Foundation and others against TTD and others. A bench comprising Justices MM Sundaresh and N Kotiswar Singh, while hearing the matter, guided the petitioner to approach the respective High Court instead. 'A cow is a cow,' remarked Justice Sundaresh, underlining that distinctions based on cow breeds, languages, or regions are human constructs. 'God belongs to everyone. Can we then claim that God prefers only local cow milk?' he asked, cautioning against injecting divisive interpretations into religious practices. The petitioner's counsel had argued that the Agama Shastras prescribe the use of milk from native Indian breeds in temple rituals and pointed out that TTD itself had previously passed a resolution supporting such practices. The plea, the lawyer insisted, was aimed at enforcing TTD's own stated commitment. However, the bench queried whether there was any binding legal framework backing such a demand. Upon being referred to prior constitutional judgments, the court was not convinced to admit the case and declined to interfere. 'Shall we also then ask whether Tirupati laddus should be made exclusively from indigenous ingredients?' Justice Sundaresh remarked in a lighter vein, before allowing the petitioner to withdraw the plea with the liberty to move the High Court. Justice Sundaresh said that devotion must manifest through compassion for all life forms rather than by creating artificial divides. 'Many pressing issues demand the court's attention. My observations were made with utmost respect to religious sentiments', he added. Meanwhile, it was learnt that the temple's cattle shelters house over 3,000 indigenous cows of breeds like Ongole, Gir, and Sahiwal. These cows already supply milk for rituals such as the sacred Abhishekam performed for the deity.
NDTV
22-07-2025
- Health
- NDTV
What Is A2 Ghee And Why Are People Calling It A Superfood
In a time when people are actively reading ingredient labels and swapping refined oils for ancient fats, A2 Ghee has found itself at the centre of conversations around wellness, cooking, and clean nutrition. Referred to as "liquid gold" in Indian kitchens and Ayurvedic texts alike, A2 Ghee is now being called a modern superfood-and for good reason. Its rise is not driven by hype alone. It is backed by nutritional science, traditional preparation methods, and a growing interest in going back to basics. But what makes A2 Ghee different from regular ghee or clarified butter? And why is it being praised not just in India but increasingly across global health circles? Let us break it down. What Is A2 Ghee and How Is It Different From Regular Ghee? The core difference between A2 Ghee and regular ghee lies in the type of milk used to make it. A2 Ghee comes from the milk of indigenous Indian cows like Gir, Sahiwal, and Rathi, whose milk contains only the A2 beta-casein protein. In contrast, most commercially available milk (and ghee) in India and abroad comes from hybrid or Western breeds such as Jersey or Holstein, which contain A1 beta-casein, a protein some researchers have linked to inflammatory and autoimmune issues. Also Read: Cooking Parantha In Ghee? Stop Making This Mistake That Harms Your Health Some studies have associated A1 beta-casein with: Type 1 diabetes Coronary heart disease Arteriosclerosis Autism and schizophrenia Sudden infant death syndrome A2 Ghee, being free of this protein, is considered easier on the stomach and safer for long-term health. The Bilona Method: Why Traditional Preparation Makes All the Difference The process matters. A2 Ghee, made using the Bilona method, is not just ghee; it is a labour of care and tradition. This 5,000-year-old method involves: Boiling A2 cow milk Cooling and adding curd to ferment it overnight Hand-churning the set curd using a wooden churner (bilona) to separate butter Simmering the butter to extract ghee Each step preserves vital nutrients, boosts digestibility, and produces ghee with a beautiful golden hue, a nutty aroma, and that signature grainy texture that indicates purity. Nutritional Profile: What Makes A2 Ghee a Superfood A2 Ghee is not just fat. It is a nutritional powerhouse that supports multiple systems in the body. Here is what it contains: Vitamin A: Essential for vision, skin, and immunity Vitamin D: Aids calcium absorption and bone health Vitamin E: An antioxidant that fights free radicals Vitamin K2: Supports heart health and bone mineralisation Omega-3 & Omega-9 fatty acids: Known for improving heart and brain function Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA): Helps in fat metabolism and may reduce inflammation It is especially beneficial for children, pregnant women, athletes, and people recovering from illness, thanks to its easy digestibility and nutrient density. High Smoke Point: Is A2 Ghee Better Than Oil for Cooking? Yes, and this is one of the reasons chefs and nutritionists swear by it. A2 Ghee has a smoke point of around 250°C, making it ideal for: Deep frying Stir frying Baking High-heat roasting Unlike many refined oils that break down into harmful free radicals when overheated, A2 Ghee remains stable, protecting the integrity of your food and your health. Is A2 Ghee Good for Gut Health and Digestion? Absolutely. The probiotic-rich fermentation process of the Bilona method, combined with the absence of the A1 protein, makes A2 Ghee easier on the digestive system. It also helps: Support a healthy gut microbiome Soothe inflammation in the digestive tract Improve absorption of fat-soluble vitamins Balance the body's doshas, according to Ayurveda Many people who cannot tolerate milk or paneer often report no issues when consuming A2 Ghee. Does A2 Ghee Help With Immunity, Skin, Hair and Cholesterol? Yes, and not just anecdotally. The nutrient-rich composition of A2 Ghee contributes to overall wellness in many ways: Strengthens the immune system Nourishes skin and promotes a natural glow Improves hair texture and reduces hair fall Contains healthy cholesterol that supports heart health when consumed in moderation A2 Ghee stands out as a remarkable embodiment of age-old knowledge. It offers a comprehensive perspective on nutrition, earning acclaim not just as a mere ingredient but as a genuine modern superfood. How to Spot Fake or Low-Quality A2 Ghee The popularity of A2 Ghee has led to many subpar products entering the market. Here is what to check: Cow breed: Make sure it is sourced from Indian desi breeds like Gir, not crossbreeds Bilona method: Cold-pressed or machine-made versions often skip key steps Grainy texture: Authentic A2 Ghee solidifies with a grainy look, not like wax Smell and taste: Good A2 Ghee has a nutty aroma and deep flavour, not bland or burnt Transparency: Brands should list the breed, method, and farm source clearly Should You Replace All Oils With A2 Ghee? Not necessarily. A2 Ghee is excellent, but balance is still key. You can: Use A2 Ghee for high-heat cooking Add it to rice, dals, roti or khichdi for flavour and satiety Use other cold-pressed oils (like mustard or groundnut) in rotation Ayurveda also recommends ghee as a carrier (anupana) for herbs and medicines, making it multifunctional. Is A2 Ghee Worth the Price? A2 Ghee is often significantly more expensive than regular ghee or refined oils-but for good reason: Indigenous cows produce less milk Bilona preparation is manual and time-intensive No additives or shortcuts are used If you view food as medicine and value quality, A2 Ghee is a long-term investment in your health. Also Read: Beyond Kitchen: 7 Surprising Ways How Ghee Can Be A Part Of Your Daily Routine Final Thoughts: A Superfood Rooted in Culture and Science A2 Ghee is not a fad-it is a nutritional comeback story grounded in traditional wisdom and modern needs. From gut health to brain function, and from high-heat cooking to boosting immunity, A2 Ghee ticks multiple boxes. It is one of the few ingredients that connects cultural heritage, scientific validity, and day-to-day usefulness. In a world full of dietary confusion, A2 Ghee is simple, time-tested, and remarkably versatile. It is no longer just grandma's favourite-it is what future-forward food looks like. About the Author: Arvind Patel is the Managing Director of Bharat Vedica, a Patel venture rooted in tradition and driven by innovation (Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.) Advertisement For the latest food news, health tips and recipes, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and YouTube. Tags: A2 Ghee Ghee Ghee Benefits Show full article Comments
New Indian Express
20-07-2025
- Business
- New Indian Express
OMFED-NDDB pact to empower 15 lakh dairy farmers across Odisha: CM Mohan Charan Majhi
CUTTACK: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday announced a series of initiatives aimed at propelling the state's dairy sector into a new era of growth. Addressing a function organised at the OMFED dairy plant in Arilo under Cuttack's Barang block, the chief minister informed that the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) and Odisha State Cooperative Milk Producers' Federation (OMFED) have entered into an agreement to enhance milk production and empower over 15 lakh dairy farmers across the state. 'As per the pact, NDDB will provide around 4,000 cows of high-yielding Gir, Sahiwal and other cross-bred varieties to dairy farmers of Odisha. Along with this, a cow dung gas plant will also be set up in the state with the help of NDDB in the coming days to promote sustainability. The plant will generate fuel from cow dung providing both cooking gas and organic fertiliser, thus reinforcing Odisha's vision of a thriving Gaumata Economy,' Majhi said. 'OMFED is the backbone of Odisha's White Revolution and has become a driving force in increasing milk production while making the state's dairy farmers self-reliant. Through strategic partnerships and upgradation of infrastructure, the government aims to substantially increase milk production, from the current 72 lakh litres to 165 litres by 2036 and 274 lakh litres by 2047,' the CM informed.
Time of India
20-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Govt to distribute 10k high-yielding cows to farmers: CM
1 2 3 Bhubaneswar: State govt will distribute 10,000 high-milk yielding cows to farmers under the Mukhyamantri Kamadhenu Yojana, announced chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday. An MoU was signed between the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) and the Odisha State Cooperative Milk Producers' Federation (Omfed) in Cuttack on Saturday, under which NDDB will facilitate the supply of 3,000 to 4,000 high-milk-yielding cows of Gir, Sahiwal and cross-bred varieties to dairy farmers in the state. Plans are also underway to set up a biogas plant with NDDB's support, aiming at sustainable energy and added income for livestock owners. Majhi launched milk powder packaging machines and handed over 22 new milk tankers to various dairy societies. Built at an investment of Rs 7.5 crore, the capacity of the tankers ranges from 2,000 to 15,000 litres. Additionally, three advanced milk packaging machines worth Rs 3.5 crore were inaugurated to increase processing capacity. "The initiatives will enhance milk procurement from farmers, with the state aiming to increase its current daily milk production of 72 lakh litres to 165 lakh litres by 2036 and 274 lakh litres by 2047," Majhi said. He further said that a contract has been signed between Omfed and Shree Jagannath Temple Administration for supplying around 30 metric tonnes of ghee for Mahaprasad and other rituals. Besides, the federation is now focusing on producing value-added dairy products such as paneer, butter, chhenapoda, ice cream, flavoured milk, mishti doi, peda and rabdi, among others. "These initiatives are also opening new income avenues for Odisha's youth," Majhi said. During the event, the CM interacted with dairy farmers, inquiring about their challenges and receiving feedback. The event was attended by minister for fisheries and animal resources development Gokulananda Mallik, Cuttack MP Bhartruhari Mahtab, Omfed chairman Kishore Chandra Pradhani, NDDB dairy services director Debanand, Omfed director Vijay Amrut Kulange, among others. Bhubaneswar: State govt will distribute 10,000 high-milk yielding cows to farmers under the Mukhyamantri Kamadhenu Yojana, announced chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday. An MoU was signed between the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) and the Odisha State Cooperative Milk Producers' Federation (Omfed) in Cuttack on Saturday, under which NDDB will facilitate the supply of 3,000 to 4,000 high-milk-yielding cows of Gir, Sahiwal and cross-bred varieties to dairy farmers in the state. Plans are also underway to set up a biogas plant with NDDB's support, aiming at sustainable energy and added income for livestock owners. Majhi launched milk powder packaging machines and handed over 22 new milk tankers to various dairy societies. Built at an investment of Rs 7.5 crore, the capacity of the tankers ranges from 2,000 to 15,000 litres. Additionally, three advanced milk packaging machines worth Rs 3.5 crore were inaugurated to increase processing capacity. "The initiatives will enhance milk procurement from farmers, with the state aiming to increase its current daily milk production of 72 lakh litres to 165 lakh litres by 2036 and 274 lakh litres by 2047," Majhi said. He further said that a contract has been signed between Omfed and Shree Jagannath Temple Administration for supplying around 30 metric tonnes of ghee for Mahaprasad and other rituals. Besides, the federation is now focusing on producing value-added dairy products such as paneer, butter, chhenapoda, ice cream, flavoured milk, mishti doi, peda and rabdi, among others. "These initiatives are also opening new income avenues for Odisha's youth," Majhi said. During the event, the CM interacted with dairy farmers, inquiring about their challenges and receiving feedback. The event was attended by minister for fisheries and animal resources development Gokulananda Mallik, Cuttack MP Bhartruhari Mahtab, Omfed chairman Kishore Chandra Pradhani, NDDB dairy services director Debanand, Omfed director Vijay Amrut Kulange, among others.
