Srinagar, Jan 22: Three unique livestock breed from Ladakh have been officially registered in the National Animal Breed Register under the National Mission of zero non-descript Animal Genetic Resources (AGR), spearheaded by the ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR), Karnal, and coordinated locally by SKUAST-K’s Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Leh.
A statement said that the newly registered breeds include the Ladakhi Yak, Ladakhi Donkey, and Changkhi Dog, all of which are well-adapted to the harsh agro-ecological conditions of Ladakh. These animals have developed unique traits over centuries of natural selection and contribute significantly to the region’s socio-economic stability, livelihood security, and cultural heritage.
Dr. Feroz-ud-din Sheikh, Head of KVK Leh, was felicitated and presented with the breed registration certificates during a ceremony in New Delhi by Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Director General ICAR, in the presence of Dr. Raghvendra Bhatta, Deputy Director General ICAR, and other senior officials.
The registration of these breeds is part of a larger Network Project on Animal Genetic Resources, which aims to document and register non-descript livestock populations across the country. Of the 10 animal breeds registered this year, three were from Ladakh. Previously, SKUAST-K registered the “Anz” Kashmir Geese, the first and only registered geese breed in India. Vice-Chancellor of SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir A. Ganai, expressed satisfaction with this achievement and congratulated Dr. Feroz, the ICAR-NBAGR team, and field veterinarians from the Department of Animal Husbandry for their collaborative efforts. He emphasised the significance of these registrations in preserving and promoting the valuable germplasm resources of Ladakh. “These unique breeds not only reflect the biodiversity of Ladakh but also hold immense potential for scientific research, economic upliftment, and cultural preservation. We hope to document and register more precious germplasm from Ladakh in the coming years,” said Prof. Ganai.
The recognition of these breeds underscores the importance of conserving indigenous livestock that have adapted to extreme conditions, ensuring sustainable livelihoods, and preserving Ladakh’s rich agro-pastoral traditions.
