Livestock is an important source of income for landless and marginal farmers and plays an important role in the national economy. As a reliable "bank on hooves" during difficult times, the livestock sector provides opportunities for employment as well as offers high-quality food for human beings. India possesses the largest livestock population in the world. Globally, livestock production is growing rapidly as a result of increasing demand for animal products. This holds also true for the dairy industry, the centre of which is dairy cows. Their well-being, health and welfare are important for successful production and economic success. Foot and leg disorders tend to increase along with increased production and more confined management systems. Lameness is one of the most serious welfare problems for the dairy cow, and yet it is one of the least well-managed health problems of dairy cattle.