Question

In traditional livestock based livelihoods, the primary economic function of cattle in India was:

• A. Draught power for agriculture
• B. Hide and skin processing
• C. Meat production
• D. Milk production

Hint:

Traditional India → Cattle = Power source, not just milk source

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept:
In traditional Indian agriculture, livestock played multiple roles, but their primary economic importance historically differed from modern dairy-oriented systems.

Step 1: Understanding Traditional Livestock Role

• Agriculture was predominantly manual and animal-driven.
• Mechanization was absent or minimal.
• Cattle were used mainly as working animals.

Step 2: Draught Power (Option A)

• Bullocks were used for ploughing, transportation, irrigation.
• Backbone of agricultural operations.
• Provided continuous utility throughout the year.

Step 3: Other Options Analysis
Hide and Skin (B)

• By-product after death
• Not primary economic function Meat Production (C)

• Limited in traditional Indian context due to cultural reasons Milk Production (D)

• Important, but historically secondary to draught usage

Step 4: Final Conclusion

• Primary function = agricultural work \[ \boxed{\text{Draught power for agriculture}} \] \[ \boxed{\text{Option (A)}} \]