Una, April 12: The Calf Rally, organized at the Haroli Ground in Rora on the second day of the State-Level Haroli Festival–2026, emerged as the main center of attraction. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri was specially present on this occasion and encouraged the participants. Mr. Agnihotri stated that livestock constitutes the backbone of the rural economy; thus, events like this calf rally not only encourage livestock farmers but also play a pivotal role in inspiring the youth to engage in animal husbandry. He congratulated the organizers on the successful conduct of the rally.
Livestock farmers from across the region participated enthusiastically in the calf rally, where approximately 50 milch animals were showcased. A palpable sense of excitement was observed among those associated with the animal husbandry sector throughout the competition.
As part of the rally, various competitions were organized for animals falling within the 0 to 6 months age group. Additionally, the presence of calves aged between 5 and 6 days particularly captured everyone's attention.
In the competition, animals were evaluated based on criteria such as growth, physical conformation, physique, dental condition, and hygiene standards, assessed according to their respective age groups. Contests were held across three primary categories: Indigenous Breeds, Exotic Breeds, and Female Buffalo Calves (Katris). In the Indigenous Breeds category, Gir, Sahiwal, and Red Sindhi cows distinguished themselves. Meanwhile, in the Exotic Breeds category, Holstein Friesian (HF) and Jersey cattle breeds remained the focal point of attraction. In the category for female buffalo calves, the Murrah breed drew special attention from both the audience and the experts.
This event not only provided a platform for livestock farmers to showcase their superior breeds but also conveyed a significant message regarding the promotion of modern animal husbandry practices, breed improvement, and milk production. The Calf Rally presented a vibrant glimpse of rural prosperity, livestock development, and an agrarian economy during the festivities.
*Here are the results of the Calf Rally:*
In the indigenous cow competition, Desraj of Kangad secured the first position with his Sahiwal-breed cow. Swami Yamuna of Ghaluwal took the second spot with a Sahiwal-breed cow, while Sudarshan of Haroli secured the third position with a Gir-breed cow. Similarly, in the Murrah buffalo category, Rajneesh Kumar of Sansowal won the first prize with his female calf (heifer), followed by Pradeep Kumar of Beetan in second place, and Amandeep of Malukpur in third.
Furthermore, in the exotic breed category, Abhinav Minhas of Churudu secured the first position with his female calf, followed by Hemraj of Pubowal in second place, and Dhruv of Palakwah in third.
The Deputy Chief Minister honored the owners of the winning calves and heifers by presenting them with gift hampers and sacks of livestock feed. Additionally, certificates of appreciation were awarded to all participants who took part in the Calf Rally.
Present on this occasion were SDM Vishal Sharma, Deputy Director of Animal Husbandry Dr. Virendra Singh Patial, along with senior veterinary doctors, pharmacists from the Animal Husbandry Department, and a large number of livestock farmers.