The Maharashtra government has formally designated the indigenous cow as 'Rajmata-Gaumata' in appreciation of its importance in Indian culture, agriculture, and healthcare. This declaration emphasises the historical, scientific, and spiritual significance of cows in human life, with local cow's milk serving as an important part of the human diet due to its high nutritional value.

Various indigenous breeds, such as Devri and Lalkanari in Marathwada and Dangi and Shavdabhat in northern Maharashtra, are celebrated throughout the state. However, there have been worries voiced about the rapid fall in the number of native cows.