Paws, Hooves, and Highways: Human-Animal Interactions on Indian Roads

Humped Bull (Bos Indicus), Bengaluru, Karnataka Source: Dr. Richa Singh India, a nation rich in cultural diversity and biodiversity, presents a unique picture of human-animal coexistence. This complex link, which combines customs, spirituality, and practicalities, is deeply integrated into the basis of everyday existence. Animals are used in conventional agricultural practices. They play a major role in the livelihoods of rural populations. India's urbanization, the invasion of habitats and stray animals on busy city streets have been on the rise. Evaluating the various aspects of this coexistence, however, exposes a dynamic interplay of difficulties and demands for sustainable approaches. Animal Carts and Working Animals For millennia, India has relied heavily on animal-driven carts for both agriculture and transportation. These customary carts, which are frequently drawn by oxen or other draft animals, are an essential aspect of rural life and have influenced the nat...