55
300. In my last Administration Report, I stated that Gurdaspur was one
of the most backward districts in the Punjab as far as horse breeding is con-
cerned, but I am pleased to be able to note a great improvement during the
past year which is mainly due to the interest taken in the matter by the local
authorities. Gurdaspur can never aspire to be ranked amongst first class
horse-breeding districts, but with continued interest taken in the matter, I feel
that it could produce many a useful Native Cavalry remount.
301. On this occasion, 276 horse stock was present as compared with 178
last year; this must be looked upon as very satisfactory.
302. Referring to this show, the Superintendent, Civil Veterinary Depart-
ment, reports:—
"There was an increase in number in all classes competing for prizes, but notably in 'Gelding' and
'Produce of District Board stallion' classes. In the former, 22 competed as compared to 8 last year, and in
the latter 21, as compared to 10.
"The six prize-winners in class II.—Fillies ont of branded mares by Government stallions, viz.,—'Clarion,'
Thoroughbred English, 'Gulzar,' Arab, and 'Red Prince,' Arab (two of each), were exceptionally good and
as promising as they could have been.
"The quality and stamp of each class of animal competing for prizes is given in the columns of remarks
on the attached 'Statement showing competition and prizes awarded.'
"The Arab was the class of sire which produced by far the most number of prize-winners. In the class
'Produce of District stallions', twelve prizes were awarded to the produce of two Arab stallions, the property
of the District Board. These were all fillies, and they showed great improvement on the class of mares
covered by District Board stallions', which were all said to be by country stallions."
303. The Deputy Commissioner, in his report on the show, remarks: —
"Generally speaking, the prospects of horse breeding in this district are improving. There is a good market
for stock at Amritsar and at Lahore."
Gujrat Horse
Show.
304. This show was held on 23rd and 24th March 1897. The Superin-
tendent, Civil Veterinary Department, reports as follows:—
"The show, both as regards number of animals and competitors for prizes, was considerably smaller than
last year, due no doubt to the great scarcity prevailing. This district has suffered more than any other in
my circle, but the average quality of those competing was far better than most shows, and the animals carried
more condition than I expected. The number of animals present was 746 against 960 last year, while 290 only
competed for prizes against 452 last year."
305. No young stock was purchased by the Remount Department, but
some good ones were taken away by the dealers. Only four remounts were
purchased against 14 last year. On this point the Superintendent, Civil
Veterinary Department, states:—
"I understand that a great many horses were bought and taken away by dealers before the show, so that
although the figures read disappointingly, many of those so purchased will be bought as remounts later on.
"Ten excellent donkeys for breeding purposes were purchased by the Inspector-General, Civil Veterinary
Department; some of them being by far the best country Jacks I have seen in this country."
306. As will be alluded to under the heading of the supply of donkey
stallions, this Department is endeavouring to obtain an indigenous supply,
and I am glad to note that the quality of the stock is rapidly improving.
307. Again, a very good lot of mares were branded at this show. I care-
fully supervise the work done by the various Superintendents, and am pleased
to be able to record my opinion that we are gradually raising the standard of
mares that are selected for the Imperial stallions; this we are able to do in all
districts that are well supplied with District Board stallions, as any that are
rejected can be covered by them; but in districts that are not supplied, we are
compelled to fix a moderate standard.
Hansi Horse
Show.
308. This show was held from 19th to 21st October 1896, and must be
considered disappointing in every way, for not only did a smaller number of
horses attend, but a lesser number competed for prizes; and although more
remounts were bought than in former years, they are generally reported to
have been wanting in quality. This is all mainly due to the failure of crops,
and I fear that there can be no doubt that the Hissar district does not possess
the same number of fine mares which it used to do; whether scarcity has driven
the owners to sell, or whether it is that they have been sent to other districts
where fodder is more plentiful, we cannot at present say, but this will be proved
by next year's coverings—at least it will be if we have good rains, and that
fodder is plentiful; it will then be seen whether the mares return to the districts
or not.