Importance of conservation of indigenous breeds of livestock and poultry

Importance of conservation of indigenous breeds of livestock and poultry

Dr. Punith Kumar G V*

Abstract

Indigenous breeds of livestock and poultry are vital for ecological balance, economic resilience and cultural identity. However, the population of indigenous livestock and poultry is rapidly declining, primarily due to crossbreeding with high yielding exotic breeds for increased production. Conserving indigenous livestock and poultry breeds is essential not only for their adaptive traits but also for ensuring food security, biodiversity and long-term sustainability in the face of climate change. Effective conservation strategies, including genetic characterization and assessments of population structure and variability, are needed to preserve their genetic resources. Maintaining this diversity allows us to retain breeds that can adapt to changing climates and emerging diseases, which is crucial for the future resilience and productivity of livestock systems globally.

Key words: Indigenous breeds, Conservation, Indian cattle, Endangered, Adaptation

Introduction:

Indigenous breeds of livestock and poultry are the backbone of rural economies in many parts of the world, particularly in developing countries. Conservation of these indigenous breeds is a critical issue in modern agriculture and biodiversity preservation. These native breeds, developed over centuries through natural selection and traditional farming practices, possess unique genetic traits that make them well-adapted to local environments and resistant to various diseases. Indigenous breeds often demonstrate remarkable resilience to harsh climatic conditions and can thrive on low-quality feed, making them invaluable in regions with limited resources. are vital for preserving genetic diversity, which underpins future breeding efforts for improved productivity, disease resistance, and adaptability to changing environments. These native breeds are deeply tied to cultural heritage and traditional livelihoods, offering not just food but also wool, hides, and draft power. However, the rise of industrial farming and a focus on high-yield commercial breeds have caused a sharp decline in native populations. The FAO reports that 8% of livestock breeds are already extinct, and 22% face extinction risks. Protecting these breeds through strategies like maintaining them in their habitats (in-situ conservation) and preserving their genetic material in gene banks (ex-situ conservation) is crucial. By doing so, we ensure a diverse genetic pool to tackle future challenges in food security, climate resilience, and sustainable agriculture. Collaboration among policymakers, researchers, and farmers is essential to promote conservation and sustainable use of these irreplaceable resources

Historical Significance and Cultural Heritage

Indigenous livestock breeds in India carry deep historical, cultural, and economic significance. Their origins trace back to the Indus Valley Civilization (Kennedy et al., 2018), and in Hindu culture, cows are considered sacred symbols of purity and motherhood (Phillips, 2021). Zebu cattle, easily identified by their distinctive hump, play a key role in traditional festivals and symbolize prosperity. Modern initiatives like gaushalas (cow shelters) and rituals during festivals such as Gudi Padwa and Makar Sankranti underscore their respected status (Kennedy et al., 2018). Environmentally, these breeds contribute to sustainable farming, as their manure enriches soil and they can graze on poor quality forage, supporting biodiversity. However, high-yield foreign breeds now threaten these native livestock. Conservation efforts are crucial to preserving India’s agricultural heritage, sustainable farming practices, and ecological balance.

Status of indigenous breeds of cattle

Indigenous livestock breeds in India are increasingly endangered due to crossbreeding and declining populations. The FAO recommends that conservation efforts begin when a breed’s numbers drop to 5,000 breeding females. According to NBAGR guidelines, Indian cattle breeds are classified by population levels: over 25,000 is normal, 15,000–25,000 is insecure, 5,000–15,000 is vulnerable, 2,000–5,000 is endangered, and below 2,000 is critical (Srivastava et al., 2019). Several indigenous breeds, including Vechur, Punganur, Krishnavalley, Bargur, Ponwar, Binjharpuri, Red Sindhi, Sahiwal, Tharparkar and Amritmahal, are facing low or declining numbers and need conservation attention (Sharma A et al., 2016). Vechur cattle in Kerala are in critical condition, while Punganur in Andhra Pradesh and Krishna Valley in Karnataka face endangered status. The breeds Pulikulam and Bargur in Tamil Nadu, Siri in Sikkim and West Bengal, and Mewati in Uttar Pradesh are vulnerable, and Ponwar in Uttar Pradesh is currently classified as insecure. Kerala’s Vechur cattle are critically endangered; Andhra Pradesh’s Punganur and Karnataka’s Krishna Valley are endangered; Tamil Nadu’s Pulikulam and Bargur, Sikkim and West Bengal’s Siri, and Uttar Pradesh’s Mewati are vulnerable; while Ponwar in Uttar Pradesh is insecure. Conservation measures are urgently needed to preserve these breeds in their native habitats.

Key Economic Traits of Indigenous Cattle

Traits of economic importance impact farm profitability, shaped by both genetics (species, breed, or strain) and environmental factors (like climate season and management). Sahiwal cattle are high milk producers (2200 kg, 4.5% fat) and have supported breed improvements like the Frieswal, a high-yield crossbreed (4000 kg, 4% fat). Disease resistance is a valuable economic trait in livestock. Indigenous cattle show strong resistance to parasites and tick-borne diseases, while studies reveal that crossbreeds like Holstein Friesian and Jersey are more prone to such infections. Crossbred cattle, such as Holstein Friesian and Jersey, have a higher risk of diseases, including haemoprotozoan infections (common in 2–7-year-olds). They’re also more likely than native breeds to catch Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and tick-related diseases and struggle with heat stress. In India, indigenous cattle produce an average of 3.20 kg of milk daily, with Punjab having the highest yield at 8.86 kg, while Haryana and Rajasthan follow with 6.26 kg and 5.62 kg respectively, and Gujarat at 4.56 kg. The rise in milk production in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Gujarat is likely due to better management practices and access to quality breeds like Sahiwal and Hariana. In different parts of India, indigenous cattle produce between 1.00 and 2.78 kg of milk daily. Most of these cattle have low productivity, highlighting the need for better breeding and management practices. Improving their feeding and health could help raise their milk output, benefiting both the farmers and the overall milk supply.

Importance of conserving indigenous cattle

Cattle genetic diversity is reduced by increased production intensity, lack of focus on locally adapted indigenous breeds, and the replacement of these breeds with high-producing hybrids, resulting in higher inbreeding and a diminished gene pool that can hasten breed extinction. The Central Herd Registration Scheme has documented the lactation yields of indigenous breeds, highlighting high producers like Gir (3038 – 3263 kg), Ongole (2000 – 2544 kg) and Hariana (1671 – 4015 kg). Even low-input Malnad Gidda cattle, weighing 80-120 kg, can yield 3-4 kg of milk daily. Recognizing this potential, state and central governments are implementing measures to boost milk production. Backyard poultry farming in India contributes to 17.8% of total egg production and has the potential to alleviate poverty, eradicate malnutrition and empower women. Indigenous goats contribute to food security and economic livelihood for smallholder farmers in rural areas, with women playing a vital role in goat rearing (Monau et al., 2020). Indigenous breeds like Satpura Desi chickens contribute to the livelihood of small-scale farmers in India by providing increased egg production and better market prices. Indigenous cattle breeds produce A2 milk, have heat resistance, illness resistance, immunity to ticks and parasites and low maintenance requirements (Rai et al., 2023). By preserving indigenous breeds, small-scale farmers not only sustain their livelihoods but also contribute to biodiversity and resilience within agricultural systems.

Table 1. Indigenous breeds and their unique characterstics

 India’s Role in Preserving Indigenous Cattle Populations          

The Government of India, along with various state governments, has implemented several initiatives to conserve indigenous cattle breeds that are under threat. One of the main challenges to conservation is farmers’ preference for high-yielding breeds, which can overshadow local breeds. To address this, the government has launched programs like the Rashtriya Gokul Mission and National Dairy Plan I. These programs focus on promoting and improving indigenous breeds and were supported by the World Bank. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) established the National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR) to manage livestock resources, offering technical assistance and incentives to local breeders through collaborative efforts with state universities and NGOs. Additionally, the National Animal Gene Bank preserves over 120,000 doses of semen from indigenous cattle breeds like Gir and Sahiwal to safeguard genetic diversity. Gaushalas and pinjrapoles also contribute to the improvement and conservation of these breeds. Indigenous cattle exhibit remarkable adaptability to local conditions, which helps ensure their survival even under environmental and feed-related stresses. With appropriate support, including financial incentives and fair milk pricing.

Conclusion

The conservation of indigenous cattle is not only critical for maintaining biodiversity but also essential for ensuring sustainable food production and food security. Indigenous breeds, with their unique adaptive traits, play a vital role in sustaining agriculture and livestock production in challenging environments. However, to achieve long-term success, it is important to implement sustainable livestock practices that support the health and productivity of these breeds. The use of biotechnology offers significant potential in identifying and conserving suitable local breeds, contributing to the conservation of livestock diversity. By embracing these strategies, we can secure the future of indigenous cattle and enhance food security for generations to come.

Exploring Future Opportunities and Research Gaps

The future of indigenous cattle depends on tackling pressing issues, from preserving their genetic diversity to adapting them for new climates. Climate change and feed shortages make it vital to develop resilient breeds that can handle heat and thrive in mixed farming systems. Research must prioritize selective breeding within native populations while limiting crossbreeding. By identifying productive, heat-tolerant cattle and improving breeding and disease control strategies, we can ensure these animals remain a cornerstone of sustainable farming.

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