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| Ipe Kutty & Manoj, Punchakkara, Vatakara, near Koothattukulam, Ernakulam |
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A family that was traditionally farmers through the generations, the Punchakkara family used to rear cattle for work in the field. As tractor and tiller slowly started replacing bulls, the upkeep of cattle also suffered a set back. However, Ipe Kutty and his son Manoj carried on with the scientific rearing of cows.
And the good work has been appreciated by those in the know of things. Some of the honours that have come his way include the award instituted by Hightec, Ernakulam, the gold medal from Milma for the best cow shed, the best farmer award from the Pambakkuda Block Panchayat, the award from Thirumaradi Panchayat etc. The 16 cows together produce 140 litres of milk daily.
His low-cost yet airy and clean cowshed attracts many visitors. Grass cultivation in 1 acre results in considerable reduction in expenses.
At 2.30 in the morning they get into the shed, clean it and feed the cows. Milking is done after bathing the cows. At noon they are again fed before milking.
Eternal vigilance, according to both, is the essential requirement for rearing cows.
Ipe and Manoj in the cowshed
Courtesy: K.V.John, Koothattukulam, Malayala Manorama, February 8, 2003
Contributed by: Administrator
