Prof. V Kamakoti, the director of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Madras, defended his position on Monday by sharing copies of international scientific journals that have reaffirmed the positive qualities of cow urine, citing evidence for the same, days after he made headlines and received criticism for praising the medicinal benefits of cow urine (gaumutra) at a cultural event.

Kamakoti, an organic farmer, shared his views on the medicinal value of cow urine during an event he attended in a personal capacity at a gaushala (cow shelter) on Mattu Pongal, celebrated on January 15. This day, which is part of the Pongal festival, highlights the importance of cattle in Tamil culture for agriculture and harvest. However, his remarks drew sharp criticism from political and social groups. According to Professor Kamakoti, his "views were taken out of context."

“The anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties of cow urine have been scientifically demonstrated. Top journals in the United States (US) have published scientific evidence. It is important to note that my comments were made in the context of advocating for organic farming and the protection of indigenous cattle breeds, which play a crucial role in agriculture and the overall economy," Professor Kamakoti said. He shared copies of papers published in international journals, including the renowned science journal Nature, with the press. He stated that these papers support his or others' statements on the matter.

An article titled "Peptide Profiling in Cow Urine Reveals Molecular Signature of Physiology-driven Pathways and In-Silico Predicted Bioactive Properties" was shared by the director of IIT, published in Nature. Additionally, Prof. Kamakoti shared papers from the following journals: "Use of Bio-active Fraction from Cow Urine Distillate (Go-Mutra) as a Bio Enhancer of Anti-Infective, Anti-Cancer Agents and Nutrients (published as a US patent);" "Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical Research"; "Chemotherapeutic Potential of Cow Urine": A Review (Journal of Intercultural Ethnopharmacology); and "Benefits of Cow Urine: A Review" (International Journal of Recent Advances in Multidisciplinary Research).

He said that cow urine might also be used as a treatment for irritable bowel syndrome in a segment of the video of his speech at the event, which was recorded in Tamil which went viral. Prof. Kamakoti, however, connected his comments to the larger significance of organic farming by highlighting the economic and agricultural significance of native cattle as well as the pressing need to transition to native farming practices.