Bovine Science: A Key to Sustainable Development

Since the beginning of civilization, humans and animals developed very strong associations to their mutual benefits. The lives of humans and animals have been connected in all aspects. Early humans learned to raise animals for food and this continues today. Ruminant livestock are the most domesticated animals that includes bovines, ovines and caprines.

Livestock, particularly bovines, are important contributors to total food production in the world. Moreover, their contribution increases at a higher rate than that of cereals. These animals play very important economic and socio-cultural roles for the welfare of rural households. They help in employment, soil fertility, livelihoods, transport, agricultural traction, agricultural diversification, food supply, source of income and also in sustainable agricultural production. These animals play an important role in food supply for rural and urban areas and contribute to family nutrition. Products such as milk, eggs, and meat are used as a source of food, with other livestock products used for domestic consumption.