How much of the following grain-food is given to a milch cow to protect its body?

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (a) 1–1.5 kg

Explanation:

• Rations for dairy cattle are divided into 'Maintenance Ration' and 'Production Ration'.
• A maintenance ration is the minimum food required to keep the animal alive and maintain body weight without producing milk or doing work.
• For an average Indian milch cow, approximately 1 to 1.5 kg of concentrate mixture (grain-food) is recommended daily for maintenance.
• Production ration is provided additionally based on the amount of milk the cow produces (usually 1 kg for every 2.5–3 kg of milk).
• This ensures the cow remains healthy and maintains its physiological functions.

• Green fodder and dry roughage are also essential components of a balanced diet along with concentrates.
• Pregnant animals require an additional 'Pregnancy Ration' during the last trimester.

• This amount is typically the maintenance requirement for a buffalo, which has a higher body mass.