Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in South Asia
Edited by Nure Alam Siddiky
SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation
i Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in South Asia
Regional Expert Consultation on Animal Breeding Polices and Strategies for the Genetic Improvement of Indigenous Animal Resources in South Asia held on 11-13 April 2018 at Hotel da yatra, Pokhara, Nepal
Edited by Nure Alam Siddiky Senior Program Officer SAARC Agriculture Centre 2018
@ 2018 SAARC Agriculture Centre
Published by the SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC), BARC Complex, New Airport Road, Farmgate, Dhaka-1215, Bangladesh (www.sac.org.bd)
All rights reserved No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, recording or otherwise without prior permission of the publisher
Citation Siddiky, N.A., ed. (2018). Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in South Asia. SAARC Agriculture Centre, Dhaka-1215, Bangladesh, p.172
The book contains the papers and proceedings of the regional expert consultation meeting on animal breeding policies and strategies for the genetic improvement of indigenous animal resources in South Asia held on 11-13 April 2018 at Hotel da yatra, Pokhara, Nepal organized by SAARC Agriculture Centre, Dhaka, Bangladesh. The authors for country paper preparation and presentation were the focal point experts nominated by respective SAARC Member States. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not imply any opinion whatsoever on the part of SAC, especially concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries.
ISBN: 978-984-34-5243-6
Price US$ 10 for SAARC Countries US$ 20 for Other Countries
Printed by Natundhara Printing Press, 277/3, Elephant Road (1st Floor) Kataban Dhal, Dhaka-1205, Bangladesh
ii Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in South Asia
iii Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in South Asia
Edited by Nure Alam Siddiky Senior Program Officer SAARC Agriculture Centre
October 2018
SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation BARC Complex, New Airport Road Farmgate, Dhaka-1215 Bangladesh
iv FOREWORD
Livestock sector, since time immemorial, is an integral part of regional agriculture and in the era of “ever green revolution” its significance is further amplified. Livestock sector plays an important role in the national economy and in the socio-economic development of the country. South Asia is blessed with high diversity of indigenous animal genetic resources. There are many potential promising animal breeds are inhabitant in the region. The density of farm animal population is highest in South Asia compared with any other region of the word. The contribution of livestock in this region to agricultural GDP varies between 8-56%. SAARC Member States share less than 10% of total world meat production despite rearing a large herd of ruminants. These valuable animal genetic resources have been developed over a period of thousands of years through natural selection and human intervention, therefore, well adapted to their respective habitat. The productivity of indigenous animal is very low due to low genetic potential. Most of the indigenous animals are non-descriptive with poor genetic makeup for production. The genetic improvement of large number of livestock is possible through cross breeding/ selective breeding with superior quality male germplasm. In SAARC region, the coverage of artificial insemination (AI) is not adequate because of non-availability of quality male germplasm at the door step of farmers, lack of breeding infrastructure, non- availability of quality fodders, lack of awareness of rural households and many other problems directly and indirectly associated with the genetic improvement of local animal genetic resources. As a result, the productivity of indigenous animals are low in SAARC Member States. The adoption of AI would reduce the indiscriminate use of breeding bulls, inbreeding among animals and also reduce the chance of reproductive problems of animals due to various sexually transmitted diseases. Each SAARC Member States have their own breeding policy and strategy for genetic improvement of the local animal resources. The indigenous animals are more adapted in the local climate and environment rather than exotic high yielding animals. So, it is time to take appropriate breeding policy and strategy to increase the productivity of the indigenous animals through genetic improvement to meet up future demand of milk and meat. This book is compiled with the resources of country study reports along with meeting recommendations. This book provides the useful and worthy information on breeding policies and strategies that has been adopted in different SAARC
v Member States. The stakeholders of the region would be benefitted through consulting the resourceful document. I highly acknowledge the contribution made by the focal point experts of SAARC Member States in preparing a comprehensive and informative country paper and participating in the expert consultation meeting. I acknowledge the contribution and effort made by Dr. Md. Nure Alam Siddiky, Senior Program Officer, SAARC Agriculture Centre to the conceptualization, technical guidance, inputs, reviewing and editing of this publication. I personally hope that this publication would provide detail and comprehensive information on animal breeding policies and strategies in South Asia. I would appreciate to receiving feedback, comments and suggestions from users for our future endeavors.
S. M. Bokhtiar Director, SAC
vi Contents
Foreword v
Country Papers Chapter 1 Policies for Animal Breeding: Strategies for 1 Sustainable Genetic Improvement Nure Alam Siddiky Chapter 2 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh 6 Zeenat Sultana Chapter 3 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan 28 Jigme Wangdi Chapter 4 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India 52 Bhushan Tyagi Chapter 5 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal 84 Rudra Prasad Poudel and Lok Nath Paudel Chapter 6 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Pakistan 107 Khalid Ashfaque Chapter 7 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka 119 P.G. Seneviratne
Special Invited Papers Chapter 8 Strategies for Buffalo Development and Genetic 136 Improvement in Nepal Bhumi Nand Devkota Chapter 9 Strategies for Genetic Improvement of Dairy Cattle 142 and Buffalo in Nepal Lok Nath Paudel Chapter 10 Genetic and Phenotypic Diversity in Nepalese Sheep 151 and Goats: Implication for Exploitation and Conservation Neena Amatya Gorkhali Report of the Consultation Meeting 160 Recommendations of the Consultation Meeting 165 List of the Participants 169
vii Policies for Animal Breeding: Strategies for Sustainable Genetic Improvement
Chapter 1 Policies for Animal Breeding: Strategies for Sustainable Genetic Improvement Nure Alam Siddiky SAARC Agriculture Centre, Dhaka-1215, Bangladesh Email: [email protected]
1. Ground Reality of South Asian Region for Animal Genetic Resources and its Improvement South Asia is blessed with high diversity of indigenous animal genetic resources. There are many potential promising animal breeds inhabitant in the region. The density of farm animal population is highest in South Asia compared with any other region of the word. Contribution of livestock in this region to agricultural GDP varies between 8-56%. SAARC countries share less than 10% of total world meat production despite rearing a large herd of ruminants. About 25% of world‘s cattle and buffaloes, 15% of the sheep and goat, and 7% of the camel are inhabitant in SAARC region. Among the SAARC Member States, India had huge dairy animal population with 517.08 million heads which shares 69.4% of the total dairy animal in the region followed by Pakistan with 138.12 million heads sharing 18.54%. The dairy animal population in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal and Sri Lanka all accounted for 12.06% of the total dairy animal population in the SAARC region. The dairy animal population in the world including cattle, buffalo, sheep, goat and camel was 3534.63 million during 2011. Among the dairy animals, cattle dominated with 1399.9 million heads followed by the sheep which was 1043.7 million heads. While the cattle population more or less was increasing at slow pace, the buffalo population increased steadily from 164.11 million in 2000 to 195.3 million in 2011. The productivity of indigenous animal is very low due to low genetic potential. Most of the indigenous animals are non-descriptive with poor genetic makeup for production. The genetic improvement of large number of livestock is possible through cross breeding/ selective breeding with superior quality male germplasm. In SAARC region, the coverage of artificial insemination (AI) is inadequate because of non-availability of quality male germplasm at the door step of farmers, lack of breeding infrastructure, non- availability of quality fodders, lack of awareness of rural households and many other problems directly and indirectly associated with the genetic improvement of local animal resources. As a result, the productivity of indigenous animals are low in SAARC Member States. The adoption of AI would reduce the indiscriminate use of breeding bulls, inbreeding among
1 Policies for Animal Breeding: Strategies for Sustainable Genetic Improvement animals and also reduce the chance of reproductive problems of animals due to various sexually transmitted diseases. In the region, the average milk production per cow during 2011 was 627.86 kg/year, while the average milk production per buffalo stood at 1257.96 kg/year. Still we have enormous scope to increase productivity of the farm animals to meet national demand. Each Member States have their own breeding policy and strategy for genetic improvement of the local livestock. The indigenous animals are more adapted in the local climate and environment rather than exotic high yielding animals. So, it is time to take appropriate breeding policy and strategy to increase the productivity of the indigenous animals through genetic improvement to meet up future demand of milk and meat. Livestock (including poultry) make an essential contribution to food and agriculture and rural development. The products and services they provide include meat, milk, eggs, fibre, draught power and manure for fertilizer and fuel. They make important contributions to livestock keepers’ abilities to manage risk and help maintain social networks within the community. The importance of livestock is increasing as human population growth, rising incomes and urbanization in developing countries fuel a massive increase in demand for foods of animal origin. The projected increase in demand is expected to drive major changes in the livestock sector during the period to 2020, a process that has been termed “the livestock revolution”. Animal genetic resources for food and agriculture (AnGR) provide the biological capital on which livestock production systems and food security are built. Planning for sustainable livestock development should, from the outset, take account of genetic differences among the species, the breeds and the animals considered for use, along with their adaptive fitness to the production environments in which they will be kept. The different ways in which animals are used in different production systems and communities should also be recognized. The State of the World’s Animal Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (FAO, 2007) indicates that the vast majority of developing countries have not been successful in sustaining genetic improvement in their livestock populations. Among the breeds considered to be in active use, 77 percent are located in developing countries. The livestock keepers in these countries certainly have breeding goals and exploit local knowledge and technologies to pursue them, but 94 percent of breeds are not subject to structured genetic improvement programmes. Therefore, many countries are failing to take advantage of the opportunities that such programmes offer to develop animals that better meet the needs of livestock keeping communities and supply the products that consumers demand. Conversely, the majority (77 percent) of breeds subject to structured genetic improvement programmes are located in developed countries.
2 Policies for Animal Breeding: Strategies for Sustainable Genetic Improvement
Sustained livestock genetic improvement activities that meet national needs without jeopardizing community needs can make a vital contribution to food security and rural development. Lessons learned from countries that have initiated and sustained genetic improvement activity during the past half- century provide a solid basis for the effective use of animal genetic diversity. The results are impressive, especially those achieved in developed countries, where the productivity of breeds subjected to genetic improvement has been doubled or tripled. Around half of this gain has resulted from genetic improvement activity and the other half from a range of non-genetic interventions. The significance of these achievements is further underlined by the fact that most of the genetic improvement is comparatively permanent. The benefits of investments in genetic improvement are recouped year after year by livestock keepers and communities. Genetic improvement activity in developed-country has now become, perhaps without exception, a fundamental and integral element of the ongoing process of improving productivity as a means to maintain profits, use input resources more efficiently and improve product quality, food safety and animal health. There is, however, a need to recognize that improved management should accompany genetic improvement, as higher-producing animals have greater requirements in terms of feeding and husbandry.
2. Lessons Learned for the Animal Genetic Improvement at Global Context It is important to understand why developing countries generally have not been successful in sustaining structured genetic improvement activities. For several decades, it was widely held that developed countries could best assist developing countries to improve their AnGR by introducing highly selected breeds and establishing them as straight-bred or cross-bred populations to substitute for the local ones. Experience has shown that such strategies have serious limitations. They are effective only where the developing country’s production systems are already able to provide the introduced breeds with levels of inputs similar to those provided in their countries of origin. If this is not the case, the introduced breeds and their crosses are often exposed to intense stressors to which they are not well adapted (e.g. periodic feed and water shortages, diseases, climatic extremes and lower-capacity husbandry). Development strategies have also failed because the associated extension and communications focused on technical issues and only on men, neglecting the wider production system and women’s roles in animal management. Reproduction rates among the introduced breeds or crosses often also have been poorer than those of the locally adapted breeds. Even more importantly, the survival rates of the introduced animals frequently have been low. Poor survival rates are a major concern because, in lower-input production systems, animal longevity is essential to productivity and efficient use of
3 Policies for Animal Breeding: Strategies for Sustainable Genetic Improvement resources. The introduction, crossing and diffusion of exotic genetic resources in developing countries have often been well advanced before negative effects have been reported. It is essential that the process of identifying the AnGR from which livestock keepers and communities are likely to derive the most benefit take account of differences among production systems. This applies to production-system differences within an individual country as well as to those between developing- and developed- country production systems. For example, the type of chicken required for poultry production systems that have access to market infrastructure is different from the type that contributes best to sustaining the livelihoods of the poorest in areas where there is no reliable market infrastructure or means to purchase inputs. In the latter situation, the chickens must have the abilities to scavenge for feed and to nest and brood so that they can reproduce without assistance as well as a resistance or tolerance to a range of diseases and parasites. The reasons for the general lack of successful breeding programmes in developing countries can be summarized as follows: Many countries do not have the technical and operational capacities fully to evaluate the range of available AnGR, the production environments in which they may be put to use and the strategies and options for their development. Countries have often adopted policies that favour particular approaches to genetic improvement (e.g. introducing AnGR from developed countries) without fully assessing their long-term implications. Livestock keepers have not been involved adequately in the early planning and development of genetic improvement programmes to which they have been expected to contribute and from which they have been expected to benefit. Genetic improvement programmes have been undertaken without detailed documentation of the operational plans. As a result, only a few livestock keepers, field technicians and/or policy-makers have clearly understood the intended objective of the development strategy and what was to be done, by whom and when. Genetic improvement activities have often been initiated through short- term projects. Conversely, experience from advanced livestock genetic improvement programmes, particularly in developed countries, has shown that long-term, evolving strategies involving the public and private sectors can be highly successful.
3. A Strategic Approach to Sustainable Genetic Improvement A strategic and logistical approach to sustainable livestock development is required. To appropriately address the use of available AnGR and the role of
4 Policies for Animal Breeding: Strategies for Sustainable Genetic Improvement genetic improvement in sustainable development, from the outset all policies, plans and programmes for the livestock sector must; Be based on soundly established and agreed livestock development objectives (LDOs) and well-integrated and realistic livestock development strategies (LDS) that are able to achieve the LDOs; Account for major environmental, structural and socio-economic differences among the production systems concerned; Ensure participation of the end users (the livestock keepers themselves). Both men and women should have access to relevant information, be involved in the formulation of policies and plans and have ample opportunities to give their opinions; Be appropriately funded; Promote step-by-step development and the sustainability of the actions undertaken; Be based on well-documented approaches that are understood and agreed by all the stakeholders involved at each stage; and Take fully into account the fundamental principles of genetic improvement and their technical implications;
4. References FAO. (2010). Breeding strategies for sustainable management of animal genetic resources. FAO Animal Production and Health Guidelines. No. 3. Rome. Siddiky, M.N.A., and Tareque, A.M.M., ed. (2014). Farm animal genetic resources in SAARC countries: diversity, conservation and management. SAARC Agriculture Centre, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
5 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh
Chapter 2 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh
Zeenat Sultana Department of Livestock Services, Dhaka-1215, Bangladesh Email: [email protected]
1. Importance of Animal Farming in National Economy and Livelihood Improvement Bangladesh is an agricultural country having total area of about 147570 sq. km (BBS, 2002) which is consists of low, flat, and fertile land. The economic backbone of Bangladesh is based on agriculture where livestock is one of the major components. The contribution of livestock to national GDP at constant prices was 1.60 percent in FY 2016-17. Its share of agricultural GDP was 14.31%. Though the share of the livestock sub-sector in GDP is small, but livestock serves an essential role as a source of protein, employment generation, export earning, and provision of food security. Livestock resources play an important role in sustenance of landless people livelihood options for the rural poor families particularly women and are potentially important for poverty reduction. In Bangladesh, most of the rural households are rearing livestock including poultry for ready source of cash and it provides them with employment. It is estimated that about 20% of employment is directly associated with livestock and partly employment is about 50%. Therefore, livestock farming is a fundamental need to improve livelihood for rural people. The total production of milk, meat and eggs are 9.28 million ton (MT), 7.15 MT and 14,933 million (M) pieces respectively (DLS, 2017) against the demand of 14.86 MT, 7.13 MT and 16941 M pieces. There is a vigorous increasing trend of production of livestock products in Bangladesh for human consumption. The affordable animal protein gaps can only be met by increasing the economic and biological efficiency of existing animal population in the country and this will also help more income generation leading to rural poverty alleviation.
6 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh
Table 1. Demand, production, availability and deficiency of milk, meat and eggs Product Demand Production Availability Deficiency Milk 14.86 9.28 157.97 5.58 Million MT (250 ml/day/head) (MT) ml/day/head (MT) Meat 7.13 7.15 121.74 Surplus (0.019 Million MT (120 gm/day/head) (MT) g/day/head MT) Eggs 16941 14933 92.75 2008 Million (104 no/year/head) (M pieces) no/year/head (M pieces) number Source: Department of Livestock Services (DLS), 2017
Table 2. Livestock contribution in GDP 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 GDP 2.06 1.98 1.90 1.84 1.78 1.73 1.66 1.60 (Base: 2005-06) Growth rate of GDP 2.51 2.59 2.68 2.74 2.83 3.10 3.21 3.32 Source: Department of Livestock Services, 2017
2. Animal Population and Demography The total livestock population of Bangladesh is composed of 23.93 million cattle, 25.93 million goat, 1.48 million buffalo, 3.40 million sheep, 275.2 million chicken and 54.01 million duck (DLS, 2017).
Table 3. Livestock population of Bangladesh (in million number) Livestock 2007- 2008- 2009- 2010- 2011- 2012- 2013- 2014- 2015- 2016- Species 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Cattle 22.90 22.97 23.05 23.12 23.19 23.34 23.49 23.64 23.78 23.94 Buffalo 1.26 1.30 1.35 1.39 1.44 1.45 1.46 1.46 1.47 1.48 Sheep 2.78 2.87 2.98 3.00 3.08 3.14 3.216 3.27 3.34 3.40 Goat 21.56 22.40 23.27 24.15 25.12 25.28 25.44 25.60 25.77 25.93 Total 48.50 49.55 50.65 51.68 52.84 53.21 53.59 53.97 54.36 54.75 Ruminant Chicken 212.47 221.39 228.03 234.68 242.87 249.01 255.31 261.77 268.39 275.18 Duck 39.84 41.23 42.68 44.12 45.70 47.25 48.86 50.52 52.24 54.02 Total 252.31 262.63 270.71 278.80 288.57 296.26 304.17 312.29 320.63 329.20 Poultry Total 300.81 312.18 321.3.64 330.49 341.40 349.47 357.76 366.26 374.99 383.94 Animal
7 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh
3. Available Animal Breeds in Bangladesh Bangladesh is rich in farm animal genetic diversity like other developing countries of Asia with particular interest are cattle, buffalo goat, sheep, horse, pig, chicken, duck, geese and pigeon. The dog and cat are also found in all areas of the country whereas elephant, deer, tiger, and goyal (Bos frontalis) live in special forest areas. Most of the aforesaid species are indigenous type except that only about 30% cattle and 75 % chicken are exotic cross and commercial types. These indigenous types possess many positive qualities, e.g. considerable adaptability to harsh climate, poor nutrition and easy or no care management system, resistance to local diseases and parasites and suitability to subsistence farmers‟ economy except that their productivity is low compared to improved breeds/types of livestock available in the country. A wide variation in terms of coat colour, size, body weight, production and reproduction has been found to exist among all indigenous farm animal genetic resources (FAnGR) of Bangladesh. However, in the last 80 years or so exploitation of exotic cattle blood, buffalo, sheep, chicken and duck germplasm has taken place in Bangladesh. As a result, some quasi- indigenous animals have been generated as well but their impact on the total production system is negligible except in the case of cattle. Table 4 shows the animal breeds available in Bangladesh. There are a number of promising well-adapted native livestock breeds in the country (e.g. Red Chittagong cattle, Black Bengal goat, Bengal sheep, Garole sheep, Naked Neck chicken, Aseel chicken etc), which could be developed into high yielding breeds through systematic pure breeding program.
Table 4. List of farm animal breeds/ species present in Bangladesh Species Category Available Breed or Type Indigenous Non-descript local called deshi, Red Chittagong, Pabna, North Bengal Grey, Madaripur, Munshigonj Exotic Jersey, Holstein Friesian, Sahiwal Cattle Holstein Friesian ×Deshi, Sahiwal × Red Sindhi, Sahiwal × Crossbred Holstein- Friesian, Holstein-Friesian × Sahiwal, Holstein- Friesian × Indigenous, Sahiwal-Sindhi × Jersey, Red Chittagong x Deshi Indigenous Non-descript Deshi River Type Nili-Ravi Buffalo Swamp Type Surti Crossbred River type × Swamp type Indigenous Black Bengal , Jamnapari Goat Exotic Beetal
8 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh
Species Category Available Breed or Type Crossbred Black Bengal × Jamnapari Sheep Indigenous Non-descript deshi, Garole Indigenous Non-descript, Naked Neck, Aseel, Hilly Exotic White Leghorn (WL), Rhode Island Red (RIR), Fayoumi, Australorp, White Cornish (WC), Layer (Hybrid for egg) Broiler (Hybrid for meat) Chicken Crossbred WL × Deshi, RIR × Deshi, Deshi × RIR, Fayoumi × Deshi,Deshi ×Fayoumi, Australorp × Aseel, Fayoumi × WL, Fayoumi × RIR (Sonali), RIR × Naked Neck, WL × Naked Neck, Aseel × Australorp, WC ×Deshi Indigenous Non-descript, Deshi White, Deshi Black, Sylhet Mete, Nageshwari Duck Exotic Indian Runner, Khaki Campbell, Jending, Muscovy. Crossbred Indigenous × Exotic
3.1 Cattle The cattle population of Bangladesh consists of indigenous, exotic (sub- continental and European) and crossbreds derived from crossing between exotic and indigenous. From 1936 the situation started to improve by introduction of improved variety of Bos indicus Hariana bull. They were imported from northern India and distributed in this region by the British Viceroy Lord Linlith Gow. After partition in 1947, fresh efforts to upgrade cattle was taken by importing Sindhi and Sahiwal bulls to infuse improved blood and were distributed in the country for natural service. In 1973, some Friesian and Jersey bulls were imported from Australia and this was the initiating point of a new dimension. Cattle of Bangladesh are mostly non- descriptive and indigenous (Bos indicus) type. However, there are few improved varieties of cattle notably Red Chittagong and Pabna localized in some areas of the country (Bhuiyan, 1997). 3.1.1 Indigenous cattle 3.1.1.1 Non-descript deshi cattle Non-descript local cattle are widely distributed in the whole country have no definite characteristics which are commonly called Deshi. Their coat colour varies from red, grey, white, brown, black to a mixture of them. 3.1.1.2 Red Chittagong The Red Chittagong Cattle (RCC) has been originated from greater Chittagong district of Bangladesh. The distinguished physical characteristics of RCC are: (i) red coat color (deep as well as light) (ii) muzzle, horn, hoof
9 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh and eyes are whitish red/ brick red in color (iii) narrow thin headed (iv) flat forehead (v) blocky as well as medium body sized (vi) males are heavier compared to females (vii) physical condition is very strong and stout (viii) large tail with whitish switch (ix) milk vein is compact and not so prominent (x) well developed hump in males but less prominent in females and (xi) dewlap is prominent in males (Habib et al., 2003, Khan et al., 1999 and Hasnath, 1974). 3.1.1.3 Pabna This variety of cattle was evolved in the northern low-lying basins around the estuary of the Pabna and Jamuna river (Shahzadpur, Bera and Sathia upazilla of the greater Pabna district). From crossbred with Hariana and Sahiwal bulls and an intensive selection during the last 50 years for increasing milk production potential in high input production system as compared to other areas of the country. Its coat colour is red, grey or a mixture of both. Cows are in good size and posses better milking ability. Males are bigger in size and coat color is mostly deep grey to white with different shades. 3.1.1.4 North Bengal Grey North Bengal Grey (NBG) cattle are important indigenous cattle genetic resource found mainly in the northern part of Bangladesh. It is an improved variety of gray colored cattle is scattered in the areas of northern districts of Bangladesh known as North Bengal Grey (NBG) variety. About 54% of total cattle population was NBG cattle in the surveyed area of Bangladesh (Al- Amin et al., 2007). The coat colour of these animals is deep grey to white. The coat colour of the neck region in adult bulls was found to be generally ashy with a range of shades. They are of good size and possess draft features. The body is small, compact and less fleshy. 3.1.1.5 Munshiganj variety Another improved variety of cattle found in Munshigonj and adjunct areas of the district. It is mostly of creamy to dull pinkish in coat colour and looks different from other varieties. The cows are good milker and have great demand as milk cows in the surrounding localities and Dhaka city. It is presumed that this variety has evolved in the localities by selective breeding and no authentic history of crossbreeding could be traced (Nasim, 1965). 3.1.2 Exotic pure breeds and their crosses The exotic pure breeds imported to date in Bangladesh (beginning from former East Pakistan) were Hariana, Tharparker, Holstein Friesian, Jersey, Sindhi and Sahiwal. The major crossbreds available in the country are ½ Local - ½ Jersey, ½ Local - ½ Friesian, ½ Sindhi - ½ Sahiwal, ½ Pabna - ½ Sahiwal, ¼ Pabna - ¾ Sahiwal, ½ Friesian - ½ Sindhi, ½ Local - ½ Sahiwal, ½ Sahiwal - ½ Friesian, ½ Local - ½ Friesian, ½ Sahiwal - ½ Friesian, ¼ Local – ¾ Friesian, ¼ Sahiwal – ¾ Friesian, ½ Red Chittagong - ½ Local .
10 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh
Non-descript deshi cattle North Bengal Grey cattle
Red Chittagong cattle
Munshigonj cattle
Pabna cattle Figure 1. Indigenous cattle of Bangladesh 3.2 Buffalo Domestic buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) occupy an important position in animal agriculture of Bangladesh. The buffaloes of Bangladesh are mostly indigenous water types along with some crossbred type. They are distributed throughout the country. However, they are concentrated particularly in agro-
11 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh ecological zones of sugar-cane belt, hilly region, coastal area and marshy land. In Brahmaputra-Jamuna flood plain area, dairy buffaloes are observed along the riverside village of Rangpur, Bogra, Jamalpur and Mymensingh district. They are also distributed along the coastal areas of Noakhali, Feni, Laxmipur, Bhola, Patuakhali and Borguna district. Draught buffaloes are found in sugar-cane belt and forest areas-like Jamalpur and Modhupur (Faruque, 2000). The buffaloes of the country may be grouped into five populations on the basis of their history of domestication, distribution and morphology. These are (i) Indigenous buffaloes in the eastern part (ii) Indigenous buffaloes in the western part (iii) Indigenous buffaloes in the in the central part (iv) Indigenous buffaloes in the southern part and (v) Exotic breed. No clear information is yet available about the origin of the water buffalo available in the country. 3.2.1 Indigenous buffaloes in the eastern part Buffaloes found in the greater Sylhet and Chittagong districts are fallen under this group. They are well adapted to the swamp soil of coastal and marshy land of this area. Their coat color is usually gray and has crescent horns. Most of the buffaloes have chevrons and white stocking. Some water buffaloes have white flecks on each side of the face. Average milk yield is about 272 to 300kg in a lactation period of 240 to 270 days. They are mainly used for draught purposes. 3.2.2 Indigenous buffaloes in the western part Buffaloes of this group constitute about 41% of the total buffalo population. Their coat color is usually black and horns are curly. Some animals have brown coat color with sport in the tail switch. White stockings are also observed in some animals that have brown coat color. Hanging horns are also available. They are the largest buffaloes in the country. Males are used for draught purpose and that of females for dairy. Average milk yield is about 620kg in a lactation period of 270 days. 3.2.3 Indigenous buffaloes in the central part These types of buffaloes are found in the sandy islands of the river Brahmaputra and the Jamuna of the central part of the country. Their morphological characteristics are almost similar to those of the western part. The utility and management practices are the main differences between these buffaloes with those of the western part of the country. They are kept absolutely for dairy purposes. Their average lactation yield is about 990kg for a lactation period of 274 days. 3.2.4 Indigenous buffaloes in the southern part Buffaloes found in the coastal area of southern part of the country are mainly crossbred of indigenous with Nilli-Ravi imported from Pakistan. The
12 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh crossbreeding was started since 1960s and is still going on. Crossbred constitutes nearly 15% of the total buffalo population of the coastal area (Faruque, 2000). They are larger in size than the indigenous buffaloes of that area. Their milk yield is two to three times higher than the indigenous and adaptability is quite satisfactory.
Figure 2. Indigenous buffaloes
3.2.5 Exotic breeds Nilli-Ravi breeds were first imported in the country from Pakistan in 1960s to supply bulls to the farmers in the coastal area of southern part of the country for crossbreeding purpose. The crossbreeding program is still ongoing. Recently Murrah buffaloes were imported from India. 3.3 Goat Goats as far as known, were probably the first domestic ruminant after dogs around 9000-7000BC. Goat occupies an important position as an animal genetic resource in the agro-based economy of the country and distributed in the whole country. They have greater importance, particularly as a cash income to the subsistence farmers. Goats are mainly reared by rural people under semi-intensive production system. As they are, kept by the marginal and landless farmers, the flock size does not reach industrial scale and flock size varies from 2-5 in each of the goat rearer. 3.3.1 Black Bengal Black Bengal goat constitutes nearly 90% of the total goat population of the country and the remaining are Jamunapari and their crosses (Husain et al., 1998). They are more or less evenly distributed throughout the country with a relatively higher concentration in the northwestern areas of Bangladesh. Though majorities of the Black Bengal bear black coat color, black and white, brown, brown and white and white coat colors are also common in the Black Bengal population (Figure 3 and 4). Black Bengal goats are dwarf breed and are known to be famous for its adaptability, higher disease resistance, fertility, fecundity, early sexual maturity, larger litter size, delicacy of meat and superior skin quality (Devendra and Burns, 1983; Husain et al., 1998). However, some authors reported that their growth rate is slow, milk yield is as low that sometimes it is not sufficient for their kids and higher kid mortality (Amin et al., 2000, 2001; Chowdhury et al., 2002).
13 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh
Figure 3. Black Bengal goat
Figure 4. Black Bengal goat (Brown and White) Jamunapari goat
3.3.2 Jamunapari Jamunapari- a bigger sized goat breed popularly known as Ram Chhagal found in the urban and periurban areas of Bangladesh in the forms of pure or Jamunapari Black Bengal cross with varying degrees of inheritance. This breed was introduced in Bangladesh since long ago. It has originated in the vicinity of the Jamuna and the Chambal rivers in India. They are reared both in intensive and semi intensive management system. It is of various coat colored including-white, ten and black. They are characterized by large pendulous ears, short horns, Roman nose and tail. 3.3.3 Other breeds Despite the two types of goats mentioned above, particularly in urban and peri-urban areas of Rajshahi region, there are large number of Sirohi, Beetal and Barbari goats in addition to Jamnapari which occur only in few numbers. These exotic goats are very attractive in appearance, bigger in size, high in price, return more profit to the goat farmers. Thousands of small farms can be seen in the said area which they breed locally as well as some are getting in from India. 3.4 Sheep As of today, only a total of 19 rams were imported in 1965, 1976 and 1984 from Pakistan (Lohi), New Zealand and Australia (Romney Marsh, Suffolk and Parendale) to improve the native indigenous sheep through crossbreeding in some pockets of Bangladesh. But the program did not continue for longer period. Therefore, the impact of imported sheep samples on the national sheep population of Bangladesh is negligible.
14 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh
3.4.1 Non-descript deshi Sheep in Bangladesh are mostly indigenous non-descript type. They are sparsely distributed throughout country with a relatively higher concentration in the coastal region of Noakhali and Cox‟s Bazar enlarged with many char lands, however, the river basin of greater Rajshahi and Tangail districts are also concentrated area of sheep, where farmers maintain larger commercial (meat) flocks. Their body colour is grey, grey with black or white patches. Face, ears and the feet are mostly light black. Males have curly horns but females are polled. Tail is short and thin. Wool is coarse with high medulation (Rahman, 1989).
Figure 5. Non-descript deshi sheep Garole sheep
3.4.2 Garole It is a small sized breed known for its prolificacy and found in Sundarban area in the southern part of Bangladesh (Islam and Shahjalal, 2001). Garole sheep have the ability to graze in knee deep conditions in marshy land. Their color is generally white. Some animals of black or brown color are also seen. The male is generally horned and females are pooled. Ears are of small, medium and long types. Twin and triplet births are common (Sahana et al., 2001). 3.5 Chicken Bangladesh have a long historical record of poultry raising under traditional backyard farming system and the situation is changing day by day toward commercial farming. Chicken population of Bangladesh is composed of indigenous, exotic breeds and their crossbreds, and commercial hybrids (broiler and layer).
Figure 6. Indigenous deshi chicken Aseel chicken
15 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh
3.5.1 Indigenous deshi chicken The indigenous chicken population is composed of non-descript Deshi, Aseel, Naked Neck and Hilly. The distribution pattern of these varieties of native chicken is very interesting. Normal neck and Naked Neck indigenous birds are found in different region of the country though the distribution of Naked Neck bird is comparatively very thin. Aseel is a rare variety found only in some restricted areas of Brahmanbaria district and some parts of Chittagong Hill tracts. Jungle fowl as the name implies is found in the forest areas of Hill tracts, Sundarbans and also found in the Madhupur and Rajendrapur forest areas. The Hilly birds are found in the Chittagong region around the hilly areas. 3.5.2 Exotic breeds and their crossbred Exotic breeds imported in Bangladesh mostly to upgrade our indigenous stock includes-White Leghorn, Rhode Island Red, White Rock, Australorp, Fayoumi , Barred Plymouth Rock and others. Crossbreds of these breeds are used in the smallholder rural farmers‟level under semi- scavenging management system. But their number is not so noticeable. Among the crossbreds Rupali (Fayoumi x White Leghorn) and Sonali (Rhode Island Red x Fayoumi) got popularity to the rural smallholder farmers. 3.5.3 Commercial hybrid Commercial farming system is developed in the private sector and completely based on imported germplasm. The commercial farming system has got comparatively higher annual growth than scavenging system. A number of commercial strains (broiler and layer) are widely used by the entrepreneurs. 3.6 Duck Ducks constitute a considerable percent of the total poultry population in Bangladesh. The rural peoples raise ducks in adjunct with other agricultural operations. Usually no extra feed is provided to them in addition they pick-up from the surrounding of the vicinity. Duck population of the country is composed of indigenous and some exotic breeds and their crosses. 3.6.1 Indigenous deshi duck Deshi ducks were probably evolved through natural selection. They are distributed throughout the country especially in low lying areas that are around the river, cannel, ditches, ponds and natural surface water reservoirs. Similar to chicken, a wide variation is observed in terms of morphological and production point of views among the indigenous duck population.
16 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh
Figure 7. Indigenous ducks of Bangladesh
3.6.2 Exotic breeds of duck Exotic breeds of duck available in the country include- Khaki Campbell, Pekin, Zindin and Indian Runner. They perform satisfactorily at the farm levels. However, a large number of crossbreds between exotic and indigenous are available in the country.
4. Productivity of Indigenous Animal Resources The production performances of indigenous animal resources in terms of meat, milk and eggs are far below than high yielding breeds of cattle, buffalo and chicken breeds found in the overseas countries. The potentiality of Non- descript local animal resources of Bangladesh in terms of production and reproduction is presented in table 5.
Table 5. Productive performance of farm animal breeds/ species in Bangladesh
Production performance Species Types/Varieties Parameter Average value
Cattle Non-descript local Birth weight 14-16 kg cattle Milk yield 1.17-1.50 kg/day
Lactation Length 242 days
Red Chittagong Birth weight 14-15 kg Cattle (RCC) Milk yield 2.0-2.5 kg/day
Lactation Length 250 days
North Bengal Gray Study indicated that the productive and reproductive (NBG) performance of NBG was better than other non-descriptive cattle of Bangladsesh. The recorded highest milk production per day was 3.5±0.18 kg, lactation length was 219±6.1 days, and the dry period was 180±6.8 days. The average birth weight of calves was 18.4±0.52 kg and mature live weight of cows 241.0±4.0 kg (Al-Amin et al., 2007)
17 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh
Production performance Species Types/Varieties Parameter Average value
Munsigonj Birth weight 14-15 kg
Milk yield 2.0-3.5 kg/day
Lactation Length 255 days
Buffalo Indigenous Buffalo Birth weight 22-28 kg
Milk yield 2.0-3.5 kg/day
Lactation Length 242 days
Goat Black Bengal goat Birth weight of kid 1.13-1.30 kg
Kids/birth(Litter size) 2.31
Adult body weight 12-26 kg
Milk yield 241-556 g/day
Lactation Length 32-83 days
Kidding interval 192-223 day
Jamnapari Adult body weight F-36-63 kg , M-44-91 kg
Lactation Length 187-261 days
Kidding interval 229-349 day
Sheep Indigenous Sheep Birth weight 1.22 kg
Lambing interval 253 day
Fleece yield 356 g
Staple length 5.13 cm
Chicken Indigenous chicken Mature live weight 1.14-1.5 kg
Egg production 35-40/hen/year
Egg weight 35-39 g
No of egg/clutch 10-16
No of clutch/year 3-4
Duck Indigenous Duck Adult body weight(kg) 1.60
Feed consumption(g/duck/day) 178.13
Age at onset lay(d) 126.0
18 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh
Production performance Species Types/Varieties Parameter Average value
Age at peak production(d) 213.0
Egg production at the peak(%) 77.0
Duck house production(%) 44.0
Mean egg weight(g) 71.17
Source: BLRI, 2001
5. National Animal Breeding Policy and Strategy Livestock development through the application of science-led methods of breeds and breeding in Bangladesh is still at a rudimentary stage. Use of inappropriate breeds, weak infrastructure (human capacity, national service delivery, breeding farms), and limited technical knowledge has constrained the development of improved breeds. Importation of inappropriate genetic material coupled with indiscriminate crossbreeding and a clear neglect of indigenous breeds has created a situation, where a number of native breeds of livestock are under threat of extinction (MOFL, 2007). There are a number of promising well-adapted native livestock breeds in the country (e.g. Red Chittagong cattle, Black Bengal goat, Bengal sheep, Garole sheep, Naked Neck chicken, Aseel chicken etc), which could be developed into high yielding breeds through systematic pure breeding program. Unfortunately, there is no regulatory body or national breeding act to regulate breed imports, prices of breeding materials, merits and quality of breeds, breeding materials and breeding services. Within the existing cattle breeding services (including artificial insemination), farmers have little or no idea of the merit and quality of the semen being offered by the breeding service providers. The same is true for other species such as goats and buffaloes, and applies also to imported germplasm (live animals, semen, embryos, etc). 5.1 Breeding policy for increasing milk, meat and egg production The main aim of livestock development program in Bangladesh should be to assist farmers to produce and sustain livestock of high economic potential. As mentioned before only a small proportion of cattle and poultry industry are under commercial operation, the rest of the livestock breeds/types are predominantly indigenous and are under traditional subsistence mixed farming systems. The future efforts should, therefore, be focused on the in situ development and conservation of potential breeds/types. Taking account the human population growth rate, socio-economic trend of the country and land available for agricultural operation of the country in future, the
19 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh following cattle, buffalo, goat, sheep and duck and poultry breeding policy is being recommended. The following tools and techniques should be implemented: (i) The breeding programs will be based on proper animal identification system (ii) Animal recording systems approved by ICAR (International Committee of Animal Recording) should be implemented and the semen of proven bulls/ pedigree bulls should be used (iii) Attempts should be taken to produce bulls that are tested for growth, semen and are free from vertically transmissible infectious and hereditary diseases, and have quality and quantity semen, and finally have desired milk yield capacity and (iv) all stakeholders (GO, NGOs and private entrepreneurs) must follow this policy. 5.1.1 Cattle 5.1.1.1 Short term policy (Up to 5 years) (i) For cows reared under intensive system i.e. high level of inputs supply and zero grazing. Target/Goal To produce dairy cattle that will yield more than 6000kg milk per lactation (305 days lactation period) at the end of 5 years. Policy Inseminate the top most cross bred Holstein-Friesian cows (daily yield 10 kg or more) reared under intensive management system with imported semen of progeny tested bulls of Holstein- Friesian cattle having milk yield capacity of 9,500-10,000kg in 305 days lactation period. One million doses of such semen should be imported by department of livestock services (DLS) and to be inseminated maintaining proper records. Private sector should be encouraged to import such semen. Action to be taken The farmers should be selected from 10% top farmers depending on the production performance of the registered farms of DLS, who wish to maintain animal identification and recording system, be trained on modern techniques and intensive management of dairy farming including recycling of farm wastages and environmental friendly farming. The herd size of the farm should be 5 breedable cows or more. (ii) For cows reared under semi-intensive system i.e. medium level of inputs supply and minimum grazing Target/Goal To produce dairy cattle that will yield more than 3000kg milk per lactation (305 days lactation period) at the end of 5 years.
20 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh
Policy Inseminate crossbred Holstein- Friesian cows (yielding 6-10kg milk a day) reared under semi intensive management system with semen of progeny tested 50% Holstein-Friesian bulls (50% Holstein-Friesian X 50% Local) having milk yield capacity of about 4,500kg in 305 days lactation period. The Sahiwal or Sahiwal crossbred cows should be inseminated with semen of Sahiwal bulls having at least 2,500kg or more milk production potential per lactation. Action to be taken The farmers should be selected from the registered farms of DLS, Bangladesh milk producers cooperative union limited (BMPCUL), char livelihood project (CLP) and non-government organizations (NGOs) who maintain animal identification and recording system, wish to be trained on modern techniques and management of dairy farming and interested to practice recycling of farm wastages. (iii) For cows reared under low input production system Target/Goal to produce native dairy cattle that will yield more than 1000kg milk per lactation (305 days lactation period) at the end of 5 years. Policy Inseminate native cows reared under low input production system with semen of progeny tested/ pedigree bulls of Sahiwal, Pabna cattle, RCC, Munshigong, other improved deshi cattle. Action to be taken The farmers should be selected from the registered farms of DLS, BMPCUL, CLP and NGOs who maintain animal identification and recording system, wish to be trained on modern techniques and management of dairy farming and interested to practice recycling of farm wastages. (iv) Special breed test program for Jersey imported by BMPCUL (MilkVita) The performance of Jersey should be tested by Bangladesh livestock research institute (BLRI) and Bangladesh agricultural university (BAU) at Baghabari and in another operational area OF BMPCUL. If found suitable, this breed should be introduced under semi- intensive system. (v) Special conservation and improvement program for RCC, Pabna cattle and local variety The existing conservation and improvement program on RCC run by BAU, BLRI and DLS should be continued. Another conservation and improvement program on Pabna cattle should be undertaken immediately by BLRI, DLS, BMPCUL and BAU. All local variety should be preserved. 5.1.1.2 Medium term policy (6 -10years) (i) For cows reared under high level of inputs supply and zero grazing
21 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh
Target/Goal To produce dairy cattle that will yield more than 4500kg milk per lactation (305 days lactation period) at the end of 10 years. Policy Inseminate the top most cross bred Holstein-Friesian cows reared under intensive management system with imported semen of progeny tested bull of Holstein-Friesian cattle having milk yield capacity of 9,500-10,000kg in 305 days lactation period. The herd size of the farm should be 10 breedable cows or more. (ii) For cows reared under medium inputs production system Target/Goal To produce dairy cattle that will yield more than 15kg milk daily in 305 days lactation period (4,500kg per lactation) at the end of 10 years. Policy Inseminate cross bred Holstein- Friesian cows (yielding 6-10 kg milk a day) reared under semi intensive management system with semen of progeny tested 50% Holstein- Friesian bulls (50% Holstein-Friesian X 50% Local) having milk yield capacity of 6,000kg in 305 days lactation period. The Sahiwal or Sahiwal crossbred cows should be inseminated with semen of Sahiwal bulls having at least 2,500kg or more milk production potential per lactation. (iii) For cows reared under low inputs production system. Target/Goal To produce native dairy cattle that will yield more than 1500kg milk per lactation (305 days lactation period) at the end of 10 years. Policy Inseminate the native cows reared under semi intensive management system with semen of progeny tested Pabna cattle, RCC and improved deshi bull etc. (iv) Special breeding program for Jersey imported by BMPCUL ( Milk Vita) A decision will be taken from the field trail (to be carried out by BLRI and BAU) whether jersey breed will be used for breeding purpose in Bangladesh as 4th breeding line. (v) Special conservation and improvement program for RCC, Pabna cattle and local variety The conservation and improvement program on RCC run by BAU, BLRI and DLS should be continued. Another conservation and improvement program on Pabna cattle should be continued. All local variety should be preserved.
22 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh
5.1.1.3 Long term policy (10 years and beyond) A national seminar involving all concerned institutes will be organized to review the results of implementation of short and medium term breeding policy. Decision will be taken accordingly. Cattle for more meat (i) Use dual purpose crossbred males (Friesian x Deshi) in the high input production system (ii) Use up-graded Brahman x Deshi (50 % - 50 %) germplasm under research trial (iii) Procure small doses of high merit Brahman semen from beef rich countries (iv) Use only improved deshi males (Red Chittagong, Pabna and typical indigenous) in the subsistence low input production system. 5.1.2 Buffalo for more milk (i) For buffaloes reared under intensive system i.e. high level of inputs supply and zero grazing Continuous up gradation of dairy buffaloes in the plain land with imported semen of Murrah, Nili-Ravi or Mediterranean Breed having milk yield production potentiality of 3,000kg per lactation. (ii) For buffaloes reared under semi- intensive system i.e. medium level of inputs system Use and fixed 50% gene of Murrah or Nili-Ravi 50% genes of native buffaloes. Practice of inter se mating. (iii) For buffaloes reared under low input production system fix and use 50% gene of Murrah or Nili-Ravi Breed and 50% genes of native buffaloes. Practice inter se mating. (iv) For swamp buffaloes of greater Sylhet and Chittagong districts Special conservation program should be undertaken to conserve the swamp buffaloes of greater Sylhet and Chittagong districts through establishment of farms in respective regions. 5.1.3 Goat for more meat (i) Use high merit purebred Black Bengal buck or semen all over the country (ii) Ensure steady production of consistently superior pure Black Bengal buck or semen by government or other stakeholders 5.1.4 Sheep for more meat (i) Use and fix up crossbred (Lohi/Romney Marsh x Deshi (50% X 50%) in the sheep pocket areas of the country
23 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh
(ii) Ensure steady production of consistently superior Lohi/Romney Marsh x Deshi ram or semen by government or other 5.1.5 Chicken for more egg (i) Use of specialized germ lines for high input production system (ii) Initiate program for in–country strain development using exotic and deshi chicken genetic resources (e.g. improved deshi). 5.1.6 Chicken for more meat (i) Use of specialized germ lines for high input production system (ii) Initiate program for in–country strain development using exotic and deshi chicken genetic resources (e.g. Naked Neck, Aseel, improved deshi). 5.1.7 Duck for more egg (i) Use of specialized germ lines for high input production system (ii) Initiate program for in–country strain development using exotic and deshi duck genetic resources (e.g. Khaki Campbell and Deshi). 5.1.8 Duck for more meat (i) Use of specialized germ lines for high input production system (ii) Initiate program for in-country strain development using exotic and deshi duck genetic resources (e.g. Khaki Campbell and Deshi)
7. Breeding Infrastructure/ Institutes/ Capacity The infrastructure for the improvement of indigenous animal resources is not up to the standard in Bangladesh. However, the following institutions have been playing a significant role for up gradation of local indigenous resources: Central Cattle Breeding Station & Dairy Farm, DLS, Savar, Dhaka Central Artificial Insemination Laboratory, DLS, Savar, Dhaka Regional Artificial Insemination Laboratory, DLS, Rajshahi 22 District Artificial Insemination Centers throughout the country Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute (BLRI), Savar, Dhaka Dairy Farm, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh Poultry Farm, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh Private owned cattle, buffalo and poultry breeding farms
8. Recommendations for Future Breeding Plan and Strategy National Livestock Development Policy 2017 for conservation and utilization of potential indigenous animal breeds for subsistence farming need to be developed;
24 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh
Artificial insemination act will be formulated for the regulation and quality control of artificial insemination activities and development of breeds in the private sector; A comprehensive human resource development program in animal breeding needs to be developed; Frozen semen production units need to be established/extended for wider scale artificial insemination of cattle, buffalo and goats to face the challenges of service shortage of proven bull/buck throughout the country; Breeders association needs to be established and/or reformulated for monitoring and coordination of livestock breeding activities with the help of government bodies in the country; National Technical Regulatory committee (NTRC) will be strengthened to regulate and quality control of imported semen, bulls and other live animals; A suitable animal identification system should be developed and applied for all farmers. ICAR approved animal recording system should be implemented in all registered herds; Advanced animal biotechnologies in the field of livestock breeding and reproduction particularly in the focal areas of embryo transfer, genetic engineering, production and use of sexed semen should be encouraged and implemented both at public and private sectors; Modern herd health and fertility management system should be ensured;
9. Conclusion The farm animal genetic diversity of Bangladesh in general are distributed all over the country, agro-ecological zone and subsistence or traditional production and management system (low to zero input system) except that some breeds / types are found only in specific areas of the country where improved feeding and management system is practiced. The positive attributes of indigenous cattle are small size, resistant to prevailing local diseases and parasites, adaptable to a wide range of environment, can thrive very well in fluctuating nutrient supply condition (draught, flood and natural calamities), lower calf mortality, posses a lot of more unique characteristics, high co-efficient of phenotypic variation, regular breeder and better utilization of low quality roughages. Major threat to indigenous cattle are scarcity of pure indigenous bull, indiscriminate national crossbreeding program, lack of well planned initiative for sustainable conservation and development program and farmers move towards crossbred to meet immediate need. Early effort to improve local cattle through Hariana, Tharparker, Red Sindhi etc produced positive results and is still the basis of
25 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh improved blood in several milk-shed areas in the country. However, no sustained policy has been pursued to maintain the selection process for continuous improvement of local breeds. Bangladesh is a signatory of important global farm animal genetic resources (FAnGR) for conservation and management policy agreements. Involvement of private sector in implementing national conservation policy is almost absent in Bangladesh. Therefore, rapid improvement of farm animal productivity for food security and livelihood for poverty reduction is needed in Bangladesh. For that to attain programs with concurrent conservation and sustainable development of FAnGRs is required which must be: (a) sound and sustainable (b) simple and easy (c) economic (d) acceptable to farmers/producer (e) guarantee active participation of all stakeholders and (g) should create employment opportunity.
10. References Al-Amin, M., Nahar, A., Bhuiyan, A.K.F.H., Faruque, M.O.(2007). On-farm characterization and present status of North Bengal Grey (NBG) cattle in Bangladesh. Animal Genetic Resources Information (AGRI), FAO, Italy, 40, 55-64. Amin, M.R., Husain, S.S., and Islam, A.B.M.M.(2000).Reproductive peculiarities and litter weight in different groups of Black Bengal does. Asian-Australasian Journal of Animal Sciences, 14(2), 1-5. Amin, M.R.; Husain, S.S., Islam, A.B.M.M., and Saadullah, M.(2001). Direct selection response to growth and correlated response to lactation traits in Black Bengal goats. Asian-Australatian Journal of Animal Science, 14(7), 899-904. BBS. (2002). Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, Statistics Division, Ministry of Planning, Government of the Peoples‟ Republic of Bangladesh, Dhaka. Bhuiyan, A.K.F.H.(1997).Cattle Breeding and Improvement Strategy in Bangladesh - past, present and future. Keynote paper presented at a National seminar on “Pashur Jat Unnayan and Jatiya Pashu Prajanon Niti” organized by the Directorate of Livestock Services, Govt. of the People‟s Republic of Bangladesh, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC), Dhaka, Bangladesh, 25 May, 1997, 1-16. BLRI. (2001).An Overview. Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute, Savar, Dhaka. CBD, 1992. Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), UNEP. Chowdhury, S.A., Bhuiyan, M.S.A., and Faruque, S. (2002).Rearing Black Bengal goat under semi-intensive management 1. Physiological and reproductive performances. Asian-Australasian Journal of Animal Sciences, 15(4), 477- 484. Devendra, C., and Burns, N.(1983).Goat production in the tropics. Commonwealth Bureau of Animal Breeding and Genetics. Commonwealth Agricultural Bureaux, Farnham Royal, UK Technical Communication, pp, 19,183.
26 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bangladesh
DLS. (2017). Expansions and Activities. Department of Livestock Services, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. Annual Report. Faruque, M.O.(2000).Identification of best genotype of buffalo for dairy purpose in Bangladesh and to improve their productivity. Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council, Farmgate, Dhaka. Hasnath, M.A. (1974). Studies on crossbred cattle. Research Bulletin 1. Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh. pp: 1-24. Habib, M.A., Bhuiyan, A.K.F.H., Bhuiyan, M.S.A., and Khan, A.A. (2003). Performance of Red Chittagong cattle in Bangladesh Agricultural University Dairy Farm. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science, 32(1-2), 101-108. Husain, S.S., Amin, M.R., and Islam, A.B.M.M.(1998). Goat production and its breeding strategy in Bangladesh. First National Workshop on Animal Breeding.Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh. 26 November, 1998. pp. 17-36. Islam, A.B.M.M., and Shahjalal, M. (2001). Ruminant Production and Research. Agricultural Research in Bangladesh in the 20th Century. Khan, M.K.I.; Ali, A., Husain, S.S., and Bhuiyan, A.K.H.F.(1999).Reproductive performances of different genetic groups of cows under farm condition. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science, 27(1-2), 59-64. MOFL. (2007).National Livestock Development Policy. Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Government of the Peoples‟ Republic of Bangladesh, Dhaka. Nasim, M. (1965).A thought on cattle breeding policy for East Pakistan. Seminar on East Pakistan Livestock, pp. 21-32. Rahman, M.M. (1989).Sheep production and development in Bangladesh. In: Sheep Production in Asia. Proc. of the Workshop on Sheep Production in Asia. PCARRD, Los Banos, Laguna, The Philippines, Ed. C. Davendra and P.S. Faylon, IDRC, 81-95. Sahana, G., S.C., Gupta, S.C., and Nivsarkar, A.E. (2001).Garole: The prolific sheep of India. Animal Genetic Resources Information, 31: 55-64.
27 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
Chapter 3 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
Jigme Wangdi Department of Livestock, Ministry of Agriculture and Forests, Bhutan Email: [email protected]
1. Importance of Animal Farming in National Economy and Livelihood Improvement Bhutan is a small kingdom situated in the Eastern part of the Himalayan range between latitudes 26°45′ N and 28°10′ N, and longitudes 88°45′E and 92°10′ E. It is a landlocked country bordered by Tibet in the north, the Indian states of Bengal and Assam in the south, Arunachal Pradesh in the east and Darjeeling and Sikkim in the west. Bhutan is an agrarian country with agriculture sector providing livelihood to about 66% of the population in the country (NSB, 2008), despite only about 7.7% land area is recorded suitable for agriculture and human habitation. Bhutan has an area of 38394 km2 with a population of 779,666 (NSB, 2017). The scattered population and low density (16 person per square kilometer) (PHCB, 2005) makes the consumer- base small for large production of any goods for domestic market, moreover there is high competition from neighboring countries. Bhutan is considered as one of the ten global biodiversity hotspots due to presence of rich flora and fauna, and it is also endowed with diverse domestic indigenous livestock species including yaks, cattle, horses, sheep, goats, buffaloes, poultry and pigs.Livestock is an integral component of agriculture farming system in Bhutan. The livestock development is aimed at attaining self-sufficiency and self-reliance in livestock products (milk, egg and meat) through enhanced livestock productivity which would ultimately contribute to improvement in nutritional intake and socio-economic prosperity of rural farming communities. The organized livestock development (poultry, pig and dairy) in Bhutan started from the first five-year plan (in early 1960s) with emphasis on increasing productivity through crossbreeding indigenous livestock population with introduced exotic livestock breeds. Accordingly, the government initially focused on establishing breeding institutions (Table 12) to bred and produce quality breeding inputs, which ultimately supplied to farmers for crossbreeding. The population of improve livestock are on rise due to economic advantages; and on the other hand, indigenous livestock
28 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan population are declining (Figure 1) offsetting the positive traits of indigenous livestock such as adaptability under extreme conditions, low inputs farming and high resistance to diseases. Nonetheless, many rural farmers continue to rear indigenous livestock although low in productivity, and it makes substantial contribution to their livelihood. Livestock development is governed by the livestock act of Bhutan 2001, the livestock rules and regulation 2017 and draft livestock breeding guidelines 2017 which all regulate livestock breeding, health and production aimed at enhancing their productivity and preventing diseases to enhance rural income and livelihood. The percent contribution of livestock sector to GDP has declined from 7.44% in 2004 to 3.69% in 2016, but in terms of monetary value the contribution has increased from Nu. 1468.38 million in 2004 to Nu. 5779.41 million in 2016 (NSB, 2017). The present contribution from livestock to GDP excludes animal draft power and manure. In overall, the livestock industry is growing and correspondingly domestic production have increased by manifold in Bhutan, but in parallel import of livestock products particularly meats continue to increase with the growing demand.
Local Improve 12000
10000
8000
6000
4000 Population(No) 2000
0 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Year
Pig
29 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
Local Improve
1000000
800000 600000 400000
200000 Population (no) Population 0 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Year
Poultry
Local Improve
12000
10000 8000 6000 4000
Population (No) Population 2000 266 650 180 409 0 2014 2015 2016 2017 Year
Sheep
Local Improve
50000
40000
30000
20000 11517
Population (No) Population 10000 3067 1500 2555 0 2014 2015 2016 2017 Year
Goat
30 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
Local Improve
18000 16000
14000
12000 10000 8000
6000 Population (No) Population 4000
2000 803 589 494 464 382 345 0 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Year
Horses
300000 Local Improve
250000 200000 150000 100000
Population(No) 50000 0 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Year
Cattle Figure 1. The population trend of improve and indigenous livestock from 2012 to 2017
Dairy farming among other livestock is widely accepted by the general populace across the country. Nublang (Bos indicus), the indigenous cattle breed of Bhutan is the most important genetic resources that support nearly 69% of Bhutanese agriculture farming communities through provision of
31 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan animal traction, manure and dairy products. The existing Nublang gene pool also serves as the main base population for crossbreeding with exotic breeds (Jersey and Brown Swiss). Today jersey remained as the most preferred breed of dairy breed and recently Holstein Friesian is also gaining popularity among the dairy farmers in the recent years. Mithun (Bos frontalis) is preferred by the migratory farmers in particular for crossbreeding with the local cattle population to obtain F1 crossbred progeny called Jatsha (male) & Jatsham (Female). The F1 crossbred progeny yield more milk and higher butter content as compared to local cattle. Yaks (Bos grunniens) are reared by the highlanders in northern frontier of the country locally known as job. The livelihoods of these highlanders are mainly dependent on yak that utilize vast rangeland resources and provide milk. Sheep (Ovis aries) was an important livestock species in the past in addition to yak and horse in northern alpine pastoral communities of Bhutan. They are primarily kept for wool and a species associated with annual ritualistic sacrificial animals in some communities. Merino and comeback were introduced in Bhutan. Goats are reared mostly in southern part of the country mainly for meat at subsistence level. Today the goat meat (chevon) is gaining popularity and to complement chevon production new goats breed-Sirohi, Barbari, Jamunapari, Boer and Beetal from India were introduced in the recent years. Buffalo is reared mainly for the milk and draft purpose. The buffalo population is insignificant and found mostly concentrated in the southern foothill districts. The buffalo population was reported declining at the rate of 6% per annum starting year 1984 (Dhendup, 2011). Poultry industry among other livestock is growing fast in the country due to high economic return. Many small part-time and a few fulltime poultry farmers have grown quickly and achieved 100% self-sufficiency in egg. The native chickens once constituted 95% of the chicken population in Bhutan (Nidup and Tshering, 2007) but now improve poultry breed (Hyline brown) dominate poultry population. Interestingly, despite introduction of several exotic poultry breeds or strains by the Bhutanese government native chickens although declining in population continue to thrive attributing mainly to socio-cultural and economic importance of indigenous poultry has on the livelihood of many rural populations. The native birds are slaughtered to please local deities, feed guests, and supplement the diet (with eggs and meat) of pregnant and lactating women (Nidup et al., 2005). Pigs too have socio-economic and cultural importance to the livelihood of many Bhutanese rural communities. While there is evidence of increased religious disapproval of pig raising in Bhutan, the pork consumption, which is mainly met from imports is increasing every year. There is an evidence of a slow but steady increase in the population of improved pigs in the country
32 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
(Figure 1). In contrast, a drastic decline in local pig population from more than 85932 indigenous pigs in 1985 and to 16959 in 2008 comprising 9863 males and 7096 females was reported (FAO, 2011). The first exotic breed of pig introduced by the Bhutanese government to promote pig development was Wessex Saddleback followed by Large White (Yorkshire) Landrace, Duroc Jersey (1981) and Large Black (1985).
2. Animal Population and Demography In overall, the domestic livestock is owned by about 69% household in Bhutan. The major domestic livestock owned are cattle, poultry, pig, yak, goat, horse, sheep and buffalo. All these livestock have either socio- economic or religious significance in livelihood on many rural farmers. The detail of population recorded from year 2012- 2017 are presented in the table 1 below:
Table 1. Livestock population recorded for Bhutan from 2012 to 2017 Livestock type 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Improve cattle 71756 76051 83128 92380 99544 107848 Pure Mithun 997 624 1173 742 388 312 Pure local 122664 121791 127854 115950 114484 103226 Mithun crosses 98320 100260 87769 91671 87025 89759 Jaba 3658 4424 2580 2743 1685 1682 Pure yak 38011 39543 37412 38222 40438 41528 Yak crosses 5260 6297 7581 8269 9179 8806 Buffalo 740 691 574 586 532 550 Poultry 523863 551185 550715 638501 1011087 1067700 Sheep 10783 9917 10778 11410 10866 9913 Goat 39019 39264 48864 41983 39362 42539 Pig 17879 15373 14204 15727 14344 16244 Equine 22550 22692 21221 20253 18804 18150
The overall cattle population comprising of improved - Jersey, Jersey x Brown Swiss, Brown Swiss x Holstein Friesian, local cattle - Nublang (male) and Thrabam (female), pure Mithun, Mithun crosses and Jaba have stabilized to about 300,000 heads over last six years. The Nublang, pure Mithun, Mithun crosses, Jaba, buffalo, horses, sheep, pig and equine population were observed to be declining over the last six years. Interestingly, population of yak, poultry and goat was recorded increasing over the same period. The household owning local cattle have declined over the last six-year from 60766 households in 2012 to 52630 households in 2017. Whereas, in contrast the number of household rearing improve cattle have increased from 24333
33 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan households in 2012 to 31700 households in 2017 (Figure 2) demonstrating success of crossbreeding program pursued and preference of farmers for high yielding exotic cattle breed 100000
90000
52630
54543
61061
56628 60766
80000 58113
70000
60000
50000 30033
40000 28515
31700
26559 25065
30000 24333 Household(no) 20000 10000 0 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Year Local cattle Exotic cattle Figure 2. Trend of cattle owning household (no) from year 2012 to 2017
Table 2 presents the trend of total households holding other livestock from year 2012 to 2017. With exception to yak rearing households, a gradual decline in households rearing sheep, goat, equine, pig and poultry was observed. The goat, pig and poultry farming are getting more commercialized and the number of households rearing these groups of livestock as well as the livestock population is expected to be stabilized.
Table 2. Trend of total household owning other livestock from 2012 to 2017 Year Livestock 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Sheep 1801 1619 1620 1497 1524 1613 Goat 9440 9347 8811 9580 8867 8905 Equine 9884 9710 8581 8225 7268 6658 Pig 9150 8190 6213 6471 5530 5579 Poultry 27834 28164 26027 25571 24511 24498 Yak 1056 1082 964 994 1068 1042
3. Animal Breed and Breed Description at a Glance 3.1 Poultry Bhutanese native chickens are genetically diverse. There are about 13 strains of native chickens in Bhutan but the FAO Domestic Animal Diversity
34 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
Information System listed only 10 strains (Nidup et al., 2005). The authors based on their socio-economic importance and popularity among farmers, four common strains-Frizzle, Black, Siem & naked neck were tentatively considered currently to represent the general Bhutanese chicken population. The characteristics of these four common strains of local poultry birds are presented in table 3.
Table 3. Characteristics of Bhutanese native chickens (adopted from Dorji et al., 2012)
Strain Distribution Morphological features Comb Plumage Shank and type Beak Seim (Red Throughout Rose, Red jungle fowl-like, Black, Jungle fowl- Bhutan pea, greenish, tailed, sickle- yellowish like) single shaped feathers; male are golden brown, sometimes reddish-brown saddle; female are brownish red with dark-greenish stripe on each feather Yuebjha Narp Southwestern Rose, Both sexes are entirely Blackish, (Black and western pea black; name derived from slate plumage) Bhutan morphology Khuilay Southern and Rose, Generally soft-feather red, Yellowish, (Naked neck) southwestern pea, diverse plumage color, e.g., whitish Bhutan single white, partridge; featherless at neck Phulom Southwestern Rose, Feathers face outwards Yellowish, (Frizzle) and southern pea (various colors as in Seim, black Bhutan black)
3.2 Pig At least four types of indigenous pigs namely Dempha, Dromfak, Sofak and Jitu were listed under the FAO’s Domestic Animal Diversity Information System (DAD-IS) (FAO, 2010).Whereas, Timsina & Sherpa (2005) based on their study on characterization of Bhutanese indigenous pig genetic resources reported all indigenous across the country to be similar. But, Nidup et al. (2009, 2010) argued that there are no evidences or adequate rational to this form of categorization and based on their findings from the nationwide genetic study suggested Bhutanese indigenous pigs as non-descript. Their physical characteristics based on distribution across four developmental regions in the country are described briefly in table 4 below.
35 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
Table 4. Physical characteristics of indigenous pig based on distribution (FAO, 2011) Region Characteristics Distribution Eastern Most of the pigs found in Eastern Bhutan have Mongar, Lhuntse, pig long dense hair, whereas some have sparse Tashigang, hair, medium-sized body, bristles along the Pemagatshel, dorsal line, medium snout, medium-sized prick Samdrup ears and curly to straight tail. Some of the Jhongkhar and indigenous pigs in Tashiyangtse are found to Tashiyangtse have white forehead and coat around their shoulders East- Pigs from Bardo in the Zhemgang district have Sarpang, central medium-sized body, sparse to medium hair Zhemgang, pigs density, medium-sized prick ears, straight Trongsa and snout, mature females have a sagging belly and Bumthang most have a long straight tail. Others pigs – Madhuri (West Bengal), Machay Sunggur (Assam), Machay36adhuri (similar to Pakhribas and Kalo Dharane Sunggur of Nepal) were introduced into the country Western The most common characteristics of pigs in Chukha, Thimphu, region this Haa, Paro and pigs region is straight hair ranging from sparse to Samtse dense, short to medium with some cylindrical-shaped snout and most with short to medium-sized prick ears. West- Have longer bodies bristles along the dorsal Gasa, Punakha, central line, medium to slightly large ears, most with Wangdue, Dagana region prick ears but some with slightly droopy ear, a and Tsirang. pigs somewhat cylindrical snout and long straight tail.
3.3 Goat Goats are reared mostly in the southern part of the country. The goat population is dominated by Black Bengal or non-descript type as empirical studies are not conducted to categorize it so far. Later from the 10th FYP onwards several improve goat breeds - Barabari, Sirohi, Beetal, Boer and Jamunapari are introduced into Bhutan. However, the growth of goat farming despite high potential remained slow due to restriction imposed on number of goats under the Forest Nature Conservation Rules (FNCR) 1995. According to FNCR, 1995 the household is allowed to rear maximum of up to four goats under confinement system.
36 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
3.4 Sheep Sheep with exception to few communities are generally herded with yak and cattle. The local sheep types of Bhutan are categorized based on location as details provided in table 5 below.
Table 5. The characteristics of indigenous sheep types in Bhutan Type Identifying features Distribution Jakar Small body size, predominately Temperate areas of central black coat, brown head and limbs, Bhutan (Sephu, Phobjikha, medium fine hair. Gogona in Wangdue; Tangsibi, Most females are polled, males have Bemji, Jongthang, Semji in horns. Height at wither is 61.15cm, Trongsa; Ura, Chumey, Ear length 10.65cm and tail length Choekhortoe, Tang valley of is 14.80cm Bumthang). Sakteng Medium body size, white and Merak and Sakteng valley, mixtures of black or brown colour. Khaling, Kangpara, Thrimshing Black or brown head, Relatively finer coat. Both sexes have horns and Roman nose. Height at wither is 64.9cm, Ear length 11.3cm and tail length is 15.1cm. Sipsoo Tall, white and patchy colours, Sub-tropical areas in south black head, a few are polled, longer Bhutan (Darla, Dungna, coarse fibre, Roman nose, short and Phuntsholing in Chukha; tubular ears, known for prolificacy, Sipsoo, Dorokha in Samtse; twins are common. Height at wither Beteni, Tsirang and Dagana is 68.95cm, Ear length 8.25 cm and district tail length is 17.3cm. Sarpang Small body size, males have horns, Sub-tropical belt in south a few females are polled, Bhutan (Bhur, Dekiling and predominately white coat colour, Choekhorling in Sarpang coarse fiber and less leggy. Height district) at wither is 58.7cm, ear length 7.8 cm and tail length is 11.65cm (Courtesy: Sonam Gyamtsho, Farm Manager, National Sheep Breeding Centre, Dechenpelrithang, Bumthang)
3.5 Cattle Many breeds of cattle are reared in Bhutan. Most farmers prefer the exotic cattle breed owing to high socio-economic benefits. The popularity of the indigenous cattle is losing with exception to those household practicing traditional migratory practices system where indigenous cattle population dominates. The unique characteristics of the indigenous cattle Nublang is described in table 6 & 7 below.
37 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
Table 6. The unique characteristics of local cattle (Nublang) of Bhutan Cattle Description Characteristics Siri It is a Bos indicus breed of cattle Nublang /Thrabum have (Nublang/ which is believed to have originated typical cervical hump of Thrabum) from the Sangbaygeog original home Zebu type, pendulous dewlap tract in Haa Western Bhutan. and long tail with thick switch touching the ground.
Table 7. The desirable characteristics of Nublang (Adopted from SA PPLPP, 2009)
Body parts Desirable traits Head Long face, long hair on poll, base of horn and ear, horn directed outward, upward and forward Neck Short neck, well developed and pendulous dewlap Hump Well developed with growth of thick long hair from its top General Body Proportionate Conformation Limbs Strong, tall, rounded hooves Tail Long, hairy, thick switch Sheath Tight and big with abundant prepuce hair
3.6 Buffalo for milk & draught Locally, buffalo is categorized as Kagay (black type), Hyakhulae (buffalo type with light grey strips) and Dobla (buffalo crossbred between local and Indian Surti breed). The genetic information on the buffalo population of Bhutan is limited, nor was scientific studies conducted to this date to generate required genetic information. The local buffaloes available may fall under non-descript type. In addition, small population of two major Indian buffalo breeds –Murrah and Surti are also found in Bhutan. 3.7 Yak Yaks are reared in eleven of the twenty districts in Bhutan. Bhutan’s yak diversity population was categorized into two groups based on genetic distance estimates and phylogenetic variation/ analysis through use of micro- satellite markers. Western (Haa, Paro & Thimphu) and Central region (Bumthang, Trongsa, Wangdue) yak was considered as a single population, distinct from the Eastern Bhutan (Trashigang, Lhuentse, Tashiyanstse & Samdup Jongkhar) yak. The Eastern region yak represents a unique gene pool. The distinguishing features are - body dimensions of both the features sexes are larger for Western region yak, compared to those from the Central and Eastern regions. The central region yak shows physical parameters that are intermediate between the values of the other two populations.
38 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
3.8 Mithun Rearing of Mithun dates back to 1797 AD in Bhutan. It is mainly reared for inter-species breeding with local cattle to produce F1 progeny called Jatsha (male) and Jatsham (Female). The male is used for the draught purpose and the female is known to produce ore milk with higher fat percentage. Mithuns are imported from India and pure line breeding is practiced in government farm wherein bulls produced are supplied to the interested farmers for breeding. Till date Arunachali and Nagami Mithuns are imported to Bhutan by individuals and government.
4. Productivity of Indigenous Animal Resources (Species wise) 4.1 Poultry The improve poultry produces about 270 eggs per annum in average, weighing about 54gm/egg. Whereas, the local poultry gives about 50-70 eggs per year (Nidup et al., 2008) with an egg size between 33.93 to 57.08gm. The local poultry takes almost a year to attain market weight in contrast to about 45 days for the improve ones. However, the meat and eggs from indigenous chickens are argued to be tastier than exotic poultry. 4.2 Pig The phenotypic data that were merged to obtain a national average shows indigenous pigs attain sexual maturity at nine months of age. The litter size at birth and weaning is 6.0 and 5.0, respectively, with 2.0 farrowing index. In general, males have longer snouts and ears than their female counterparts (Table 1). The body weight at 1–2 year was 30.38 and 51.10kg for female and male pig, respectively. 4.3 Sheep Sheep are reared for wool and seldom for the meats. The Jakar type sheep yields about 448.66gm of wool per annum/shearing. It is sheared twice in a year. The adult Jakar sheep weighs about 34kg (Dorji et al., 2008). The overall average body weight of sheep reported up to six months was 15kg, 6 months to 1 year was 25kg and the average weight for adults above one year was 34kg (SA PPLPP, 2009) 4.4 Cattle The production parameters for the Nublang were presented in table 8 below:
Table 8. Production performance of Nublang (Siri cattle) Parameters Performance Average age at first mating 43 months * Average Age at first calving 55 months*
39 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
Parameters Performance Average calving interval 646 days* Average gestation period 279 days* Average lactation length 264 days* Average lactation yield (305 days) 465.6 litres* Average fat % 4.35%* Average milk yield per day 1.76 litres* *SA PPLPP (2009)
4.5 Buffalo The production parameters of buffalo are presented in table 9 below:
Table 9. Production parameters of buffalo reared in Bhutan Parameters Performance Average age at first mating 35.26 months (ranges 18-50) * Heat interval 21.49 days (ranges 18-23 days) Average calving interval 16.92 month (14 – 25 months) * Average gestation period 10.07 months (ranges 9-11 months) * Average fat % 7.22% Average milk yield per day 2.37 Kg*; 2-5 kg** Days open 160.01 (60-365 days) *Wangdi et al. (2014); ** Tamang et al. (2009)
4.6 Yak The yak in Bhutan was categorized into two types-the Eastern and the Western type. The yak from the Central region was found similar to the yak from Western region. The production performance of yak types in Bhutan are presented in table 10 below.
Table 10. The production performance of yak types in Bhutan Performance Parameters Eastern Central Western Avg. milk yield/day/l 1.27 (summer) 1.19 (summer) 1.15 0.33 (winter) 0.31(winter) (summer) 0.30 (winter) Lactation length (days) 244.3 232.4 226.6
40 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
Performance Parameters Eastern Central Western Average lactation yield per 154.9 145.2 140.3 cow (l) Gestation period (days) 256.6 257.4 252.8
Wangdi & Wangchuk (2018)
Hairs and fine wool are produced from yak. Although this art has been lost, there were records showing annual production of about 0.8-1.0kg of hair and 0.4kg from adult bull & 0.6kg of hair and 0.2kg wool from adult female.
5. National Animal Breeding Policy and Strategy (Species wise) In general, the national animal breeding policy and strategy focuses on enhancing productivity of local genetic resources through crossbreeding with elite exotic breeds suitable in the country. 5.1 Poultry The poultry development in the first FYP started with the distribution of the exotic cockerels for crossbreeding with local poultry. However, in the later plans until 9th five year plan (FYP) pullets (8 weeks) from improve poultry breed were produced in the government poultry farms and then were supplied to the interested farmers at subsidized cost for egg production. Thereafter, the supply of pullets was replaced with production and supply of commercial day-old chicks. The government farms maintain parent stock imported from India and third countries for the production and supply of day-old-chicks (DOC) both for the layer and broiler. The Hyline brown and Rose 308 is preferred poultry breed in Bhutan for layer and broiler, respectively. 5.2 Goat The rearing of goats was limited to 4 numbers per household (Forest & Nature Conservation Rules, 1995) under confinement. However, with recent amendment of the rules (FNRC, 1995) any interested parties can rear any numbers of goats under confinement. The government intervention on goat farming started from 10 FYP, wherein exotic goat breeds were imported and tested for adaptability through research. Thereafter, breedable bucks were supplied to the farmers for crossbreeding with available local gene pool. In some places does are also being supplied free of cost to promote goat farming. 5.3 Sheep In Bhutan, sheep were mainly reared for wool and accordingly in 1974 the government with support from UNDP established a farm with exotic Kashmiri Merino breed & later on Comeback was introduced. The farm
41 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan produced breeding rams which are supplied to interested farmers for cross breeding with available local population. However, today with availability of cheaper synthetic wool in the markets and high predation from wild animal sheep rearing have drastically declined. Sheep development is still promoted through groups approach to conserve the native population. 5.4 Cattle & Mithun Crossbreeding local cattle with exotic breeds remains the main thrust to enhance dairy cattle productivity. The local cattle are the main base population for crossbreeding programme with exotic breeds (Jersey and Brown Swiss). The Jersey & Brown Swiss were the two predominant breeds, thus Jersey& Brown Swiss bulls both pure and crosses are supplied to the community for crossbreeding in remote areas beyond two hours walk from the road point. The bulls are produced in a government breeding farms, and additional requirement for Jersey bull are met from the contract heifer & breeding bull production program (CHBBPP). Artificial insemination (AI) services are made available by extension staffs in areas with road access. Community artificial insemination technician (CAIT) is trained to deliver AI services in remote places. Today, there are about 106 functional AI outreach centres across Bhutan. In remote areas, crossbred cattle with minimum exotic blood level of 50% are promoted for optimum production. Until 1998 there was a breed barrier, where in Brown Swiss was promoted in higher elevation (northern part of the country), and Jersey in the lower elevation or in the southern belt. The breed barrier was lifted in 1998 to provide better & more breed choices for the farmers. Today, Jersey is the most preferred breed in the country, and preference for pure Jersey & Holstein Friesian is growing among the commercial dairy farmers. Inter-species breeding (between Mithun and Siri) is practiced with knowledge inherited from their ancestors. The F1 offspring of Mithun and Siri is the Jatsha (Male) and Jatsham (female). The male offspring from the backcross in the first, second, third and fourth generations are known as Yangku, Doeb, Data and Thrapa, whereas, their corresponding females are called Yangkum, Doebum, Datum and Thrabum. The government farm adopts pureline breeding with the conservation mandates, and in parallel the farm produces and supply Nublang to interested farmers owning large herd of local cattle and practices migratory system. Tri-hybridization though found practiced in the field is not encouraged by the government. 5.5 Buffalo The farmers openly breed their animals with available breeding bulls in absent of government support in buffalo farming. Lately, AI with semen from Nilli Ravi buffalo breed was introduced on trial basis in some of the buffalo rearing districts in Bhutan. The achievement and its preference are yet to be assessed. There is a high potential of buffalo to be promoted as an alternative dairy animal for warm tropical belts of Bhutan.
42 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
5.6 Yak Yak herders from different region adopts different breeding practices in Bhutan. In Eastern region (Tashigang, Tashiyangtse, Lhuentse, Samdrup Jongkhar) beside pure line breedingyak are crossed with Goleng (Tibetan bull). The F1 progeny obtained from crossing yak and Goleng is Zo (male) and Zom (female). The crosses Zom is reported to yield higher milk as compared to yak, but fat content is lower. Whereas, in the Western region (Haa, Paro, Thimphu) pure line breeding is practiced. The government support yak development program through supply of breeding bulls to interested herders. However, the yak bulls from Western or Central region was never supplied to eastern Bhutan for breeding, mainly due to risk of spreading Gid disease to eastern yak, as the region was considered free from Gid disease. 5.7 Pig Pig development activities are mainly focused on introduction of exotic germplasm. Various crosses of piglets are produced in the government farms and the piglets (35-42 days) were sold to the farmers at a government subsidized rate mainly for fattening. With government farms not fulfilling the demand of the farmers, contract piglet breeding farms are promoted to compliment the piglet production. Crossbreeding of local with introduced were promoted in the early five-year plan, but in the later plans local pig development did not receive any attention from the government.
6. Breeding Infrastructure/ Institutes/ Capacity The government under the Department of Livestock maintains nucleus livestock farm both for the indigenous and improve livestock. Most of these infrastructures were established in the first five-year plan (FYP) in 1960s. The details of different livestock farms with existing capacity are presented below in table 11.
Table 8. The existing livestock infrastructure in Bhutan Commodity Infrastructure/institute Capacity A. Poultry National Poultry Research and Maintains 7500 poultry layer & Pig Development Centre, Sarpang parent stock; 4500 broiler parent stock Regional Pig & Poultry Development Maintains 70 sow level PS, & Centre, Lingmithang, Mongar 2500 poultry layer PS Native Poultry & Heifer breeding Maintain about 500 local birds; Centre, Sertsham 98 Siri Regional Poultry breeding Centre, Paro 2500-layer PS National Pig Research & Development 300 sow level Centre, Gelephu
43 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
Commodity Infrastructure/institute Capacity Regional Pig Breeding Centre, 140 GGP Yusipang, Thimphu Dairy National Jersey Breeding Centre, Samtse 100 Jersey Brown Swiss Farm, Bumthang 30 Brown Swiss; 80 Jersey National Nublang Breeding Centre, 170 Nublang Tashiyangphu, Tashigang Calf Rearing Centre, Wangkha, Chukha 81 Jersey crosses Yak Yak Farm, Bumthang 100 yaks National Integrated Yak Farm, Haa 103 yaks Sheep National Sheep Breeding Centre, 500 heads Dungmithang, Bumthang Goat Goat farm, Samrang (under corporation) 100 heads Mithun Regional Mithun Breeding Farm, 93 heads Aerong, Tashigang Regional Mithun Breeding Farm, 90 heads Wangdigang, Zhemgang
7. Recommendations for Future Breeding Plan and Strategy In general, the future livestock breeding plan and strategy should consider following factors: Link to agro-tourism and market linkages as niche natural, local products; Engage and incentivize local communities as custodians for animal genetic resources conservation and development; Foster regional cooperation among neighboring countries at local (farmer groups, cooperatives) and institutional levels (Department to Departments etc); Adapt IT assisted breeding technologies (cattle identification, herd health monitoring systems); Increase investments in research & reproductive biotechnologies e.g. ET, AI; Specifically, the future breeding plan and strategy should focus on following areas: 7.1 Poultry While present breeding strategy to import parent stock to produce commercial layer and broiler strains continue, the government should also give due impetus to develop a suitable breeding and conservation strategy for indigenous birds in Bhutan.
44 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
The government should encourage DOC production of both layer and broiler breeds/strains through community participation for long term sustainability. 7.2 Pig The Government of Bhutan must make an effort to protect, promote and utilize indigenous pig resources in a sustainable manner through: Cryopreservation or ex situ conservation of local pig genetic material as it can provide a valuable complement to in situ approaches; Establish Government nucleus farm to combat the enormous decline of indigenous pig population and to ensure a sustainable source of swine genetic resources in the country; Coordinate conservation activities, such as the participation of local communities, government institutions and NGOs; Encourage community participation in breeding program and contract piglet production; 7.3 Sheep Promote conservation and sustainable utilization of available local sheep breeds/types; Initiate ex situ conservation of the local breeds in form of semen and; Strengthen existing Government Nucleus Farm to complement field interventions; 7.4 Goat Current practices of supplying good quality bucks should continue for crossbreeding with existing non-descript goat population; 7.4 Cattle Promote selective breeding and up-grade indigenous cattle breed to develop base population to eventually develop suitable dairy breeds for Bhutanese farming environment; Intensify breed improvement program through use of advance reproductive bio-technologies such as sexed semen, embryo transfer; Encourage community participation in the breeding program and production of quality heifers and bulls to complement existing Govt. farms; Up-scale Open Nucleus Breeding Scheme (ONBS) for production and exchange of native cattle germplasm between Govt. Nucleus Farms and communities; Up-scale community AI technician (CAIT) program; Composite breed shall not be introduced; Discourage tri-hybridization;
45 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
7.5 Yak Introduce AI in yak for genetic up-gradation of existing population; Strengthen Government nucleus farm for production and supply of quality breeding animals; Revive and promote traditional yak breeding practices through institution of yak breeder group or association; Preserve yak from eastern Bhutan owing to their uniqueness through government nucleus farm establishment; 7.6 Mithun Continue pure line breeding of Mithun at government nucleus farm; Promote Mithun AI where feasible for inter-species breeding as desired by farmers to produce Jatsham and Jatsa; 7.7 Buffalo Up-grade existing buffaloes population with introduction of desirable buffalo breeds from neighboring countries; Introduce AI for genetic upgradation of existing buffalo population;
8. Conclusion Livestock will continue to have socio-economic and religious importance particularly for the rural households in Bhutan. Any development in Bhutan is looked towards equitable share of resources and balance development, thus the livestock production by mass should be advocated for generally accepted livestock farming in particular dairy. Whereas, for meat mass production by few beneficiaries could be pursued. With government thrust to attain self- sufficiency in livestock products the population of indigenous livestock breed are decreasing, while with high socio-economic opportunity the population of crossbred and exotic breed are increasing. Although the decline of local indigenous livestock population is evident there is no immediate threat of extinction; however, in the light of global warming issue and acknowledging the positive traits such as adaptability, disease resistance and low inputs farming of indigenous livestock there is an immediate need for the local gene pool to be promoted, conserved and utilized sustainably. In overall, the government should continue with the existing livestock breeding plan and strategy; however, in line animal identification, record keeping for breeding and herd health improvement programme must be pursued rigorously. The government must invest more and thrive towards conducting quality research for the development of suitable dairy and poultry breeds for Bhutan. The conservation and promotion of indigenous livestock breeds must also be pursued in light of importance attached to climate resilient and climate smart livestock farming across the globe.
46 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
9. Reference Dorji .(2017). Decline of Jakar sheep population in pastoral communities of Bhutan: A consequence of diminishing utility, alternate income opportunities and increasing challenges Pastoralism: Research, Policy and Practice, 7(4). Dorji, N., and Gyeltshen, T. (2012). Characterisation of family poultry production in Haa and Mongar districts of Bhutan. Livestock Research for Rural Development, 24 (155). Dorji, N., Duangjinda, M., and Phasuk, Y. (2012). Genetic characterization of Bhutanese native chickens based on an analysis of Red Jungle fowl (Gallus gallusgallus and Gallus galluss padecieus), domestic Southeast Asian and commercial chicken lines (Gallus gallusdomesticus). Genetics and Molecular Biology, 35(3), 603-609. Dorji, T., G. Tshering, D.L., Sherpa., and Tamang, N.B.(2008). Sheep: In animal genetic resources of Bhutan, (ed.) Tashi Y. Dorji, O. Tshewang, and Tamang Sonam. Serbithang, Thimphu Bhutan: National Biodiversity Centre, Ministry of Agriculture and Forests. FAO. (2011). Farming and biodiversity of pigs in Bhutan. Animal Genetic Resources, 2011, 48, 47–61.Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, 2011 doi:10.1017/S2078633610001256 Kishore, K., and Gopikrishna. (2011). Remunerative markets for Bhutanese sheep and yak wool and by-products—prospect for sustainable livelihoods & conservation. A consultancy report. Serbithang, Thimphu, Bhutan: National Biodiversity Centre, Ministry of Agriculture and Forests. Nidup, K., and Tshering, P. (2007). Status of the family poultry production and HPAI in Bhutan. Proceedings of the 8th Asian Pacific Poultry Conference of the World’s Poultry Science Association, Bangkok, pp 78-83. Nidup, K., Penjor, A., and Dorji, P. (2008). Poultry, In: Dorji TY, Tamang S, editors. Animal Genetic Resources of Bhutan. Kuensel Cooperation; Thimphu: pp. 26–47 Nidup, K., Penjor, A., Dorji, P., Gurung, R., Arasta, P., and Moran, C. (2005). Genetic structure of the native chickens of Bhutan. SAAR Journal of Agriculture, 3, 69-89. NSB. (2017). Bhutan at a Glance 2017. National Statistic Bureau, Thimphu, Bhutan. http://www.nsb.gov.bt/publication/files/pub9wt9959wh.pdf accessed 4 April 2018 SA PPLPP. (2009). Code: BHGP04, “Conservation of the Last Himalayan Cattle Breed of Bhutan”. Potential Good Practice Note, Delhi, India Tamang, N.B., Sherpa, D.L., Sharma, B.N., Tshering, G., Thinley, G., and Rai, D.B. (2009). Buffalo farming in Bhutan – vanishing before its full potential is explored. Journal of Renewable Natural Resources, Bhutan, 86. Tamang, S. (2015). Community consultation meeting and baseline information of Jakar sheep for conservation and sustainable use in high altitude northern areas of Bhutan. Serbithang. Thimphu, Bhutan: National Biodiversity Centre.
47 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
Timsina, M.P., and Sherpa, D.L. (2005). Characterization of Bhutan’s indigenous pig genetic resources and production systems. Bajo, Bhutan, Renewable Natural Resources Research Centre, Council of RNR Research of Bhutan, The Ministry of Agriculture. Wangdi, J., and Wangchuk, K. (2018). Productive and reproductive traits of yak types in Bhutan: characteristics and comparisons, Journal of Applied Animal Research, 46, 1, 893-897, doi: 10.1080/09712119.2017.1416616 Wangdi, J., Bhujel, P., Timsina, M.P., and Wangchuk, S. (2014). Performance of Buffalo (Bubalusbubalis) under Bhutanese conditions. Global Science Research Journals, 2 (2), 67-73.
48 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
Annexure 1. Pictorial presentation of important local livestock genetic resources
Nublang Thrabum (cow)
Thrabum (heifer)
Jakar type Sakteng type
49 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
;;;;Sipsoo type Sarpang type
Siem Nacked neck
Frizzle Black
50 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Bhutan
Boeta Yu
Black Bengal Non descript
51 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
Chapter 4 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
Bhushan Tyagi Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India Email: [email protected]
1. Introduction Livestock is an important sub-sector of Indian agricultural economy and plays a multifaceted role in providing livelihood support to the rural population. Livestock sector apart from contributing to national economy in general and to agricultural economy in particular also provides employment generation opportunities, asset creation, coping mechanism against crop failure and social and financial security. The contribution of livestock sector in agriculture in terms of output, which was 17.3 percent during 1980-81, increased to 27 percent in 2016-17. Similarly, contribution of the sector to national gross value added (GVA) has been around 5 percent over the years despite pronounced variation observed in contribution of crop sector to national GVA, indicating the stability of the livestock sector. Livestock production systems in India are mostly based on low cost agricultural residues, agro-byproducts and traditional technologies, primarily for the production of milk, draft power, meat, egg, fiber etc. About 70 million rural household own livestock of one species or the other and 60 million among them own cattle and/ or buffaloes. Resource poor small and marginal farmers and landless labourers own 71% of cattle, 63% of buffaloes, 66% of small ruminants and 70% of pigs. The Livestock sector, besides contributing to the national economy, plays a key role in providing livelihoods to seventy million rural households. India is a global leader amongst dairying nations and produced 176 million tones of milk during 2017-18 valued at more than Rs.5000 billion. The dairy cooperatives of the country have the singular distinction of providing seventy five percent of their sales, on the average, to the farmers. In the rural areas, most of the livestock rearing activities are handled by women. As many as 75 million women are engaged in livestock sector as against 15 million men. There is an increasing trend towards participation of women in livestock development activities. This has led to empowerment of women-headed households in the rural communities. India stands first in terms of the bovine population having 20% of the world’s population. In
52 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India spite of India’s position as highest producer of milk, productivity of our bovines is very poor. It is only 1742 kg/year as compared to the world average of 2219 kg/year. This is mainly due to low genetic potential for milk production of our non-descript bovines and poor level of nutrition.
2. Trends in Bovine population Cattle and buffalo rearing has been a traditional livelihood in India and is closely linked to agricultural economy. India with 190.90 million cattle (19th Livestock Census, 2012) has 14.42% of the world cattle population. Out of this, 39.73 million are crossbreed, which is 20.81% of the total cattle population. Between 2007 and 2012, crossbred population increased by 20.17%. The changes within the cattle population over the last two decades indicate a radical shift in the priority of the farming community from production of work animals to milk production. The proportion of the female in the population increased steadily from 1972 onwards. Between 1987 and 2012, the number of working male in cattle population declined sharply by 25.53% (16.65 million) and among females the proportion of adult females increased gradually. However, the proportion of indigenous cows declined by 8.94% between 2007 and 2012 and a phenomenal growth in the number of crossbred was seen. Total crossbred number grew from 8.80 million in 1982 to 39.73 million in 2012.
Changes in crossbred cattle population
50 39.73 40 33.06 24.69 30 20.1 20 15.21 8.8 11.59 Series1 10 Expon. (Series1) 0
Population in Populationin million 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Year from 1982-2012
During 2017, about 45.94 million cattle are in milk and are contributing 66.42 million tons of milk, which is about 45.39% of the total milk produced in the country during the same period.
3. Trends in Buffalo Population India has 108.34 million buffalo population, which is 56.05% of the world buffalo population and during 2017 about 80.38 million tons of milk was
53 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India contributed by buffaloes which was about 49.10% of the total milk produced in the country. This shows the higher significance of the buffaloes in milk production. Buffalo population in the country is increasing at a steady rate with slight increase in the productivity. Out of the total buffalo population in the country more than 50% are breedable females, indicating preference of the farmers for rearing buffaloes for milk production. Among the States, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Punjab have the largest buffalo population and together they accounted for nearly 60% of all the buffalo population of the country in 2012. Eastern region has less than 10 % of the buffalo population with swamp buffalo being included basically for drought purposes. Thus buffaloes are not playing significant role in milk production in this region.
Trends in buffalo population in million
140 105.343 108.702 120 97.92 89.918 100 84.206 75.966 80 60 40 20 0 1987 1992 1997 2003 2007 2012
4. Milk production 4.1 Trends in milk production India ranks first among the world’s milk producing nations. India is the leading producer of milk since 1998. Milk production in the country has increased from 170 lakh tons in 1951 to 1763.46 lakh tons in 2017-18. And per capita availability of milk has increased from 130 gm/person/day to 376gm/person/day which is more than the 186gm estimated for Asia and the world average of 294gm, but however less than that of developed countries estimated at 83gm per day. As per FAO, the average annual growth in milk production in the world during last decade was at 2.2%, whereas, in India milk production grew at the rate of 5%. The estimates of yield rate of milk (in kg/day) for crossbred cows, non-descript cows and buffalo during 2016- 17 are 7.52, 2.83 and 5.25 kg/day respectively. Milk production over the years is given in the table as under:
54 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
Table 1. Milk production and per capita availability of milk 1950-51 to 2017-18
Milk production Human Population Per Capita % of Year (million tons) in million Availability gm/day Increase 1950-51 17 359 130 1955-56 19 393 132 11.76 1960-61 20 434 126 5.26 1968-69 21.2 518 112 6.00 1973-74 23.2 580 110 9.43 1979-80 30.4 664 125 31.03 1980-81 31.6 679 128 3.95 1981-82 34.3 692 136 8.54 1982-83 35.8 708 139 4.37 1983-84 38.8 723 147 8.38 1984-85 41.5 739 154 6.96 1985-86 44 755 160 6.02 1986-87 46.1 771 164 4.77 1987-88 46.7 788 162 1.30 1988-89 48.4 805 165 3.64 1989-90 51.4 822 171 6.20 1990-91 53.9 839 176 4.86 1991-92 55.7 856 178 3.34 1992-83 58 872 182 4.13 1993-94 60.6 892 186 4.48 1994-95 63.8 910 192 5.28 1995-96 66.2 928 195 3.76 1996-97 69.1 946 200 4.38 1997-98 72.1 964 205 4.34 1998-99 75.4 983 210 4.58 1999-2000 78.3 1001 214 3.85 2000-01 80.6 1019 217 2.94 2001-02 84.4 1040 222 4.71 2002-03 86.2 1056 224 2.13 2003-04 88.1 1072 225 2.20 2004-05 92.5 1089 233 4.99 2005-06 97.1 1106 241 4.97
55 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
Milk production Human Population Per Capita % of Year (million tons) in million Availability gm/day Increase 2006-07 102.6 1122 251 5.66 2007-08 107.9 1138 260 5.17 2008-09 112.2 1154 266 3.99 2009-10 116.4 1170 273 3.74 2010-11 121.8 1186 281 4.64 2011-12 127.9 1210 290 5.01 2012-13 132.4 1212 299 3.52 2013-14 137.7 1228 307 4.00 2014-15 146.31 1245 322 6.25 2015-16 155.49 1264 337 6.27 2016-17 165.4 1276 355 6.37 2017-18 176.35 1285 376 6.62 Source: Animal Husbandry Statistics Government of India
The milk production in the country has increased from 137.69 million tons in 2013-14 to 176.35 million tons in 2017-18 registering the growth of 28% during the period. Year wise state-wise growth in milk production in thousand metric tons is given as under:
Table 2. State wise milk production during last four years % of Change Sl. State/UTs 2017-18 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 (2013-14) No. to (2017-18) 1 Andhra Pradesh 13007.08 9656.15 10816.99 12177.94 13724.99 5.52 2 Arunachal Pradesh 43.35 46.07 50.13 52.53 54.02 24.62 3 Assam 814.52 829.47 843.46 861.27 871.89 7.04 4 Bihar 7197.06 7774.89 8288.42 8711.07 9241.50 28.41 5 Chhattisgarh 1208.61 1231.57 1277.32 1373.55 1469.38 21.58
6 Goa 67.81 66.6 54.34 51.36 54.88 -19.06 7 Gujarat 11112.18 11690.57 12262.35 12784.12 13569.06 22.11 8 Haryana 7441.67 7901.35 8381.33 8974.75 9809.00 31.81 9 Himachal Pradesh 1150.81 1172.16 1282.86 1329.11 1392.18 20.97 10 Jammu & Kashmir 1614.67 1950.93 2273.35 2376.09 2459.79 52.34 11 Jharkhand 1699.83 1733.72 1812.38 1893.8 2015.62 18.58 12 Karnataka 5997.03 6120.93 6344.01 6562.15 7136.66 19.00 13 Kerala 2654.7 2711.13 2649.82 2520.34 2575.98 -2.97
56 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
% of Change Sl. State/UTs 2017-18 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 (2013-14) No. to (2017-18) 14 Madhya Pradesh 9599.2 10779.07 12148.37 13445.32 14713.17 53.27 15 Maharashtra 9089.03 9542.29 10152.61 10402.15 11102.29 22.15 16 Manipur 81.7 82.17 78.97 78.82 81.66 -0.04 17 Meghalaya 82.16 82.96 83.95 83.96 85.03 3.49 18 Mizoram 15.3 20.49 22 24.16 25.02 63.52 19 Nagaland 80.61 75.69 77 79.37 74.09 -8.09 20 Orissa 1861.19 1903.14 1930.47 2003.42 2088.34 12.20 21 Punjab 10011.1 10351.41 10774.2 11282.06 11854.88 18.42 22 Rajasthan 14573.05 16934.31 18500.08 20849.59 22427.10 53.89 23 Sikkim 45.99 49.99 66.74 54.35 58.67 27.58 24 Tamil Nadu 7049.19 7132.47 7243.53 7556.35 7741.82 9.83 25 Telangana - 4207.26 4442.45 4681.09 4965.37 - 26 Tripura 129.7 141.23 152.23 159.59 174.26 34.35 27 Uttar Pradesh 24193.9 25198.36 26386.81 27769.743 29051.72 20.08 28 Uttarakhand 1550.15 1565.35 1655.81 1692.42 1741.69 12.36 29 West Bengal 4906.21 4961 5038.47 5182.6 5388.61 9.83 30 A&N Islands 14.21 15.56 15.43 16.14 16.99 19.58 31 Chandigarh 44.43 44 43.18 36.39 42.30 -4.80 32 D.& N. Haveli 11 8.52 8.52 7.5 7.50 -31.82 33 Daman & Diu 0.82 0.82 0.8 0.62 0.83 0.82 34 Delhi 284.31 280.06 280.83 279.11 279.11 -1.83 35 Lakshadweep 6.07 4.19 3.25 3.24 2.55 -57.99 36 Puducherry 47.25 47.64 48.04 48.31 48.68 3.02 All India 137685.89 146313.55 155490.51 165404.38 176346.64 28.08 Source: Integrated Sample Survey Government of India
Goats contribute 3.44% of the total milk produced in the country against 49.19% contributed by buffalo, 27% by crossbreds and 21% by indigenous cattle. Category-wise milk production in India is presented in the following diagram.
57 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
Milk Production by different categories of Animals in million tonnes
5.62
43.58 Cross Bred Catte
80.38 Indigenous Cattle 33.83 Buffalo Goats
5. Cattle and Buffalo Genetic Resources 5.1 Cattle The cattle genetic resources of India are represented by 41recognized breeds. Most of the cattle breeds are suited for draught power but produce little milk. Indigenous animals are sturdy, are endowed with quality of heat tolerance, resistance to diseases and ability to thrive under extreme nutritional stress. These breeds are classified into three categories-milch breeds, like Sahiwal, Red Sindhi, Gir and Rathi which calve between 40 to 50 months and produce 1,500 to 2,000kg in a lactation and have a calving interval of 15 to 18 months; dual purpose breeds like Tharparkar, Hariana, Kankrej, Ongole, Deoni, Gaolao, Krishna Valley and Mewati which first calve between 45 to 55 months, produce between 600 to 1,500kg of milk and have a calving interval between 15 to 20 months; and draft breeds like Kangayam, Hallikar and Khillari. The remaining 80% of the cattle are non descript which first calve at an age of 60 months, and produce about 500kg in a lactation and have a calving interval between 20 to 24 months. Cattle genetic resources along with their breeding tract and their population as per latest livestock census are given below:
Table 3. Indigenous breeds of cattle their breeding tract and population Sl. Breed Breeding Tract Productivity Population as Population as No. per 2007 per 2012 Livestock Livestock Census Census Dairy Breeds 1 Gir Gujarat (Junagarh, Milk Yield: 2100 21,03,307 5113013 Bhavnagar, Amreli kg (800-4000) District ) Milk Fat 4.6%
58 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
Sl. Breed Breeding Tract Productivity Population as Population as No. per 2007 per 2012 Livestock Livestock Census Census 2 Rathi Rajasthan (Bikaner, Milk Yield: 1560 9,24,087 1237509 Jaiselmer & kg (1062-2810) Ganganagar District) Milk Fat 3.7% 3 Red Pakistan (Karachi and Milk Yield: 1840 5,49,432 557402 Sindhi Hyderabad District); kg (1,100 -2600) Uttarakhand, Tamil Milk Fat 4.5% Nadu, Odisha; Bihar 4 Sahiwal Pakistan (Sahiwal Milk Yield: 2326 4,57,405 4882294 District), Ferozpur and kg (1600-3500) Amritsar District of Milk Fat 4.8-5.1% Punjab Dual Purpose Breeds 5 Deoni Maharashtra (Latur, Milk Yield: 1135- 1,66,025 351600 Parbani, Nanded and 3000 kg OsmanabadDistrict), Milk Fat 4.3% Karnataka (Bidar) SNF 9.69% 6 Gaolao Maharashtra Milk Yield: 600- 2,22,663 322683 (WardhaDistrict), MP 1500 kg (Balaghat, Milk Fat 4.3-5.5% ChindwaraDistrict) Chhattisgarh (Durg, Rajnandgoan) 7 Hariana Haryana (Rohtak, Milk Yield: 1567 26,00,122 6279966 Hissar , JindDistrict), kg (1067-2500) Rajasthan (Alwar, Milk Fat 4.5% Bharatpur) SNF 9.10 8 Kankrej Gujarat (Kutch, Milk Yield: 1746 38,87,152 3028249 Mehsana, Ahmedabad, kg (1097-3194) Kaira, Sabarkantha Milk Fat 4.8% District), Rajasthan( Barmer & Jodhpur) 9 Krishna Karnataka (Belgam, Milk Yield: 1135- 2,314 14399 Valley Raichur, 3000 kg BijapurDistrict) Milk Fat 4.3% Maharashtra (Satara, Sangli, Solapur) 10 Mewati Rajasthan ( Alwar, Milk Yield: 900- 75,427 32940 Bharatpur), Uttar 1500 kg kg Pradesh (Kosi, Mathura Milk Fat 4.7-5% District) 11 Ongole Andhra Milk Yield: 688 2,58,240 6,34,526 Pradesh(Chittoor, kg (475-1000) Kurnool) Fat 4.2%
59 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
Sl. Breed Breeding Tract Productivity Population as Population as No. per 2007 per 2012 Livestock Livestock Census Census 12 Tharparka Rajasthan (Jodhpur, Milk Yield: 1749 5,57,679 732479 r Barmer, Jaiselmer) kg (913-2147) Milk Fat 4.88% SNF 9.2% Draught Breeds 13 Amrit Karnataka (Hassan, Milk Yield: 572- 98,169 230142 Mahal ChikmaglurChiteradurg 650 kg a) Milk Fat 4.3-5% 14 Bargur Tamil Nadu (Erode Milk Yield: 250- 21,312 16307 District) 1300 Milk fat: 4.5 to 5.5% 15 Bachaur Bihar (Sitamari, Milk Yield: 495- 4,51,659 1546488 Madhubani, 605 kg DarbhangaDistrict) Milk Fat 4.5%-5% 16 Binjharpu Orissa (Jajpur Milk Yield: 400- 43,680 110553 ri subdivision Cuttack 450 Kg District) Fat 4.94% SNF 7.8% 17 Dangi Maharashtra (Nasik, 530 3,04,238 193780 Ahmednagar District.) Milk Fat 4.3% 18 Ghumsuri Orissa (Cuttack Milk Yield: 450- 82,815 83988 District) 650 kg Milk Fat 4.8 to 4.9% 19 Hallikar Karnataka Milk Yield: 540 21,96,698 1807932 kg (227-1134) Milk Fat 5.7% 20 Kangaya Tamil Nadu ( Erode Milk Yield: 540 3,16,114 193445 m District) kg (600-800) Milk Fat 3.88% SNF 6.96 21 Kenkatha Uttar Pradesh (Lalitpur, Milk Yield: 500- 1,85,886 670402 Hamirpur, Banda 800 kg District), Madhya Milk Fat 4.7 to Pradesh 6.7% ( TikamgarhDistrict) 22 Kherigarh Uttar Pradesh Milk Yield: 300- 1,71,414 199251 ( Lakhimpur 500 kg KheriDistrict) Fat 4-6% 23 Kheriar Orissa 383824 24 Khillari Maharashtra (Solapur, Milk Yield: 384 14,23,742 2014352
60 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
Sl. Breed Breeding Tract Productivity Population as Population as No. per 2007 per 2012 Livestock Livestock Census Census SangliSataraDistrict) kg (240-515) Milk Fat 4.5 to 5.5% 25 Malvi Madhya Pradeash( Milk Yield: 1047 15,18,452 1710465 Dewas, Ujjain, kg (627-1227) SajapurDistrict), Milk fat 4.28% Rajasthan (JhalawarDistrict) 26 Nagori Rajasthan Milk Yield: 603 8,37,344 508703 (NagaurDistrict) kg (479-905) Milk Fat Av 5.8% 27 Nimari Madhya Pradesh Milk Yield: 360 3,09,859 453633 (Khandwa, Khargoan kg (310-495) and BarwaniDistrict) Milk Fat 4.9% 28 Motu Orissa Milk Yield: 7,02,347 536758 (KoraputDistrict) 100-140 kg Milk Fat: Av 4.86%-5.3% 29 Ponwar Uttar Pradesh Milk Yield: 24,072 27967 (PilibhitDistrict) 500-1000 kg kg Milk Fat: 4-5% 30 Red Maharashtra Milk Yield: 598 1,78,758 458040 Kandhari (NandedDistrict) kg Milk Fat 4.6% SNF 8.62 31 Siri West Bengal Milk Yield: 61,764 17749 (Darjeeling) and 2-6 Kg/day Sikkim Milk Fat 2.8-5.5% SNF 7.56- 9.37 32 Umblach Tamil Nadu ( Milk Yield: 500 2,18,315 72510 yery Thanjavur, kg Milk Fat 4.5 to NagapattinamDistrict) 5.5%
33 Vechur Kerala (Vaikam, Milk Yield 550 3,170 2499 Kottayam District) kg Milk Fat 4.7-5.8% 34 Punganur Andhra Pradesh Milk Yield 546 771 2828 (ChitoorDistrict) kg (194-1099) Fat 5% SNF 9.5%
61 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
Sl. Breed Breeding Tract Productivity Population as Population as No. per 2007 per 2012 Livestock Livestock Census Census New Breeds 35 Malnad Karnataka Milk Yield 200 1281000 1049543 Gidda (Chikmaglur, Dakshina kg Kannada, Uttar Milk Fat 4.5 to Kannada, Hassan, 5.5% Kodagu, Shimoga, Uddupi) 36 Kosali Chhattisgarh (Raipur Milk Yield 200- 1500000 2432236 Durg Bilaspur Janjgir) 250 kg Milk Fat 3.5% 37 Pulikulam Tamil Nadu (Madurai) Milk Yield 500 45000 10085 kg Milk Fat: 4.5 to 5.5% 38 Gangatiri Uttar Pradesh Milk Yield 364806 (Varanasi, Gorakhpur, 900-1200 kg (NBAGR) Ghazipur, Ballia, Mau, Milk Fat Av 4.9% Mirzapur) (4.1 to 5.2%)
39 Belahi Foot hills of Shivaliks Milk Yield 30,000 in Haryana 182-2092 kg (NBAGR) Milk Fat Av 5.25 (2.37-7.89) 40 Badri Uttarakhand Milk Yield 547-657 kg 41 Lakhimi Assam Milk Yield 270-375 kg
4 39 3 2 7 29 22 12 26 10 31 15 38 21 25
8 27 1 36 1.Gir 21. Kenkatha 6 2.Rathi 22. Kherigarh 23 16 17 3.Red Sindhi 23. Kheriar 30 18 4.Sahiwal 24. Khillari 28 5.Deoni 25. Malvi 5 24 6. Gaolao 26. Nagori 9 7.Hariana 27. Nimari 8. Kankrej 28. Motu 11 9. Krishna Valley 29. Ponwar 13 10. Mewati 30. Red Kandhari 11.Ongole 31. Siri 19 34 12. Tharparkar 32. Umblachyery 35 13. Amrit Mahal 33. Vechur 14 14. Bargur 34. Punganur 15. Bachaur 35. Malnad Gidda 20 32 16. Binjharpuri 36. Kosali 33 37 17. Dangi 37. Pulikulam 18. Ghumsuri 38. Gangatiri 19. Hallikar 39. Belahi 20. Kangayam Figure 1. Indigenous Breeds of Cattle and location of their breeding tract
62 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
5. 2 Buffalo Breeds The buffalo genetic resources of India represented by 13 recognised breeds. Murrah is the breed of choice and is used widely in the country grading up nondescript buffalo population. Bhadawari is having its breeding tract in UP (Agra, mathura) and is well known for milk fat percentage. In this breed milk fat ranges from 6 to 14%. Jaffarabadi well known breed of Gujarat. Mehsana (Gujarat) Nagpuri (Maharashtra), Nili-Ravi (Punjab), Pandharpuri (Maharashtra), Surti (Gujarat), Toda (Tamil Nadu), Marathwada (Maharashtra), Chilika (Orissa) and Banni (Gujarat). Assam has swamp buffalo population which is mainly used for draft purpose. Buffalo genetic resources in India are given in the following table.
Figure 4. Indigenous breeds of buffalo, their breeding tract and population
Sl. Breed Breeding Tract Productivity Population Population No. as per 2007 as per 2012 Livestock Livestock Census Census 1 Murrah Haryana (Rohtak, Hissar Milk Yield 1500- 2,04,88,438 48251640 District) 4000kg Milk Fat 6 to 9% (Av (7.3%) 2 Nili Ravi Punjab (Ferozepur Milk Yield 1500- 5,91,659 677264 District) 4000kg Milk Fat: 5 to 8% (Av 7) 3 Bhadawari Uttar Pradesh (Agra, Milk Yield 540-1400 7,29,013 1753814 Etawah District), kg Madhya Pradesh (Bhind, Milk Fat: 6 to 13% Gwalior District) (Av 9) 4 Jaffarabadi Gujarat (Amreli, Milk Yield 2000 to 18,43,848 1771498 Junagarh, Bhavnagar 4000 kg District) Milk Fat: 7 to 8.5% (Av 8) 5 Marathwad Maharashtra Milk Yield 1000- 1,83,238 376599 a (Marathwada region) 1500 kg Milk Fat: 6 to 10.5% (Av 9) 6 Mehsana Gujarat (Mehsana, Milk Yield 600- 33,76,196 1216125 Ahmedabad) 3600kg Milk Fat: 5 to 9.5% (Av 6.8) 7 Nagpuri Mharashtra (Vidhharbha Milk Yield 800-1500 1,42,765 190958 region) Milk Fat: 7 to 9% (Av 8)
63 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
Sl. Breed Breeding Tract Productivity Population Population No. as per 2007 as per 2012 Livestock Livestock Census Census 8 Phandharp Maharashtra (Kohlapur, Milk Yield 1500- 2,72,802 483738 uri Sangli, Solapur District) 2500kg (1790 kg) Milk Fat: Av 8.01% 9 Surti Gujarat (Kheda, Milk Yield 1000- 29,88,245 3892927 Vadodara, Bharuch 2000 District) Milk Fat: 3.8 to 8.7% (Av 7.02%) 10 Toda Tamil; Nadu ( Nilgiris, Milk Yield 500 kg 54,755 5536 Udamanglam, Coonoor Milk Fat: 8.2 District) 11 Banni Gujarat (Kutch District) Milk Yield 1100- 5,27,576 382122 6000 kg Milk Fat: 4 to 12.1% (Av 6.5%) 12 Chilika Odisha (Cuttack Milk Yield 450- 29000 7570 Ganjam, Puri District) 500kg Milk Fat: 8.5 to 8.8% (Av 8.7%) 13 Kalahandi Odisha (Kalahandi, Milk Yield 680-912 80,000 142021 Rayagada District) kg Milk Fat: 7.8 to 8.2%
6. Demand of Milk Presently about 48 percent of milk production is consumed locally in the villages and the balance is sold. About 30 percent of the milk sold is handled by the organised sector and the remaining 70 percent by unorganised sector. Out of the share of 30% handled by the organised sector, about 16% is handled by Cooperative sector. With higher growth of the economy, increase in population and increased health consciousness among the populace, the demand for milk and milk products is expected to increase at a rapid rate. It is expected that larger proportion of income will be spent on milk and milk products. Further, urban centres will demand more and more processed and packaged dairy products but in the rural areas people may still prefer to purchase from local milkmen. 200 million tons of milk will be required in 2021-22, production of milk will have to rise annually on an average of 10 million tons per year over the next 3 years. The milk production would need to grow at around 6 percent per annum from the current level to reach a production of 200 million tons in 2021-22.
64 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
7. Breeding policy Under the Constitution of India {Article 246(3) of the Constitution}, livestock development falls within the jurisdiction of the State Government. However, the Central Government supplements and complements the efforts of the State Governments through different schemes and programmes apart from creating an enabling environment to promote sustainable growth of the sector. 7.1 National livestock policy The National Livestock Policy, 2013 was notified on 18th April 2013 in order to have a policy framework for improving productivity of the livestock sector in a sustainable manner, taking into account the provisions of the National Policy of Farmers, 2007 and the recommendations of the stakeholders, including the States. National Livestock Policy is available on the website of this Department www.dahd.nic.in. The National Livestock Policy aims at increasing livestock productivity and production in a sustainable manner, while protecting the environment, preserving animal bio-diversity, ensuring bio-security and farmers’ livelihood. With this goal, the main objectives of this policy are as under: To support in the existing low input production systems for improving productivity and income so as to improve socio-economic status of a vast majority of our livestock producers, most of which are women and small farmers. To support research and development initiatives on issues pertaining to livestock sector for improving production and productivity, bio-security and profitability; To encourage establishment and growth of self-supporting financially viable, medium and large commercial livestock production units capable of adopting latest technology including facility for processing and value addition; To improve the productivity of livestock and poultry by promoting and disseminating the technologies developed by the research system; To promote conservation of animal bio-diversity; conservation and genetic improvement of important indigenous breeds of livestock and poultry in the country; To increase availability of feed and fodder resources to meet the requirement of livestock to attain optimal productivity; To strengthen overall animal health cover through prevention, control and eradication of various disease conditions and encourage/enable the dairy cooperatives to extend veterinary services to farmers; To focus on production of quality livestock products as per the international standards and food safety;
65 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
To encourage value addition of livestock products like milk and milk products, eggs, wool and meat & meat products etc; To expand capacity of milk handled by organized dairy sector including cooperatives; To ensure transmission and application of improved technology and management practices to the doorstep of the farmers and the entrepreneurs;
7.2 Model breeding policy A broad framework of a model breeding policy was prepared by Government of India and circulated to all the States as a broad guideline to formulate their own breeding policy. Broad framework of the breeding policy envisages crossbreeding of nondescript cattle population with exotic breeds -Jersey and HF level of exotic inheritance being limited to 50%, preservation and conservation of indigenous breeds through selective breeding in their breeding tracts and use of recognized indigenous breeds for upgrading non- descript stock.
7.3 State breeding policy Animal Husbandry is the State subject and most of the States have formulated its own breeding policy deciding on choice of breed, cross breeding strategy, animals of different breeds required, breeding goals in terms of expected genetic progress to be achieved, specific breeding programmes and the control measures that should be adopted to achieve the desired genetic gains in the population. Cattle and buffalo breeding policy in different States is given in the following table:
Table 5. Cattle & buffalo breeding policy in different states Sl. State/UT Breed Breeding Policy (Salient features) No 1 Andhra Ongole i) Upgrading the nondescript as well as graded Pradesh Deoni buffaloes with Murrah Breed. Non descript ii) Selective breeding of indigenous breeds like Ongole Buffalo non and Deoni in their breeding tract. descript & iii) Crossbreeding nondescript local cattle with exotic graded breeds like HF and Jersey. iv) Inter-se- mating of crossbred cattle with crossbred semen ensuring exotic blood level of about 50%. 2 Arunanchal Local cattle Grading up, with Hariana and Redsindhi cross Pradesh breeding with Jersey 3 Assam Local cattle Grading up, with Hariana and Redsindhi; cross breeding with Jersey
66 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
Sl. State/UT Breed Breeding Policy (Salient features) No 4 Bihar Local cattle i) Cross breeding with exotic breeds to increase Buffalo (non productivity of non descript cattle population through descript and AI, Jersey and HF and are the breed of choice. The graded) level of exotic inheritance limited to 50% and allowed to be increased up to 62.5% in exceptional cases. Crossbreeding with exotic breeds will be taken up in urban and periurban areas. If need arise back crossing of crossbreds with indigenous breeds will be allowed. ii) Upgrading non descript cattle with the bulls of recognized indigenous breed like Tharparkar, Red Sindhi, Shaiwal, and Hariana. iii) Genetic upgradation of nondescript cattle population with exotic breeds will also be allowed, preferably with Jersey semen. iv) Upgrading non descript buffalo population with Murrah breed.
5 Chhattisgarh Local cattle i) Upgrading nondescript cattle with recognized indigenous breeds- Sahiwal, Redsindhi, Tharparkar and Ongole. Buffalo (non ii) Crossbreeding nondescript cattle on demand descript & especially in urban areas with adequate fodder graded) availability. HF and Jersey is breed of choice for crossbreeding. The exotic blood maintained between 50-62.5%. iii) Upgrading nondescript buffaloes with Murrah and Surti breed. 6 Gujarat Cattle: Gir, i) Conservation and upgradation of pure bred of Gir & Kankrej Kankrej by using progeny tested bulls of respective Buffalo: breeds. Mehsani, Surti, ii) In buffalo also upgradation of pure bred of Jaffarabadi Jafarabadi, Surti and Mehsani by using progeny tested bulls of respective breeds. iii) Cross breeding of non descript animals with H.F. & Jersey up to 50% blood level and maximum up to 72.5%. 7 Goa Local cattle Grading up, with Redsindhi; cross breeding with Jersey 8 Haryana Cattle: Hariana, i) Selective breeding of indigenous breeds Sahiwal, non ii) Grading up non–descript with Hariana, Shaiwal, descript Tharparkar; Buffalo: Murrah iii) Cross breeding non-descript with Jersey and Holstein-Friesian up to 50% blood level 9 Himachal Local cattle i) Cross breeding nondescript indigenous hill or phari Pradesh Buffalo: cattle populations with exotic breeds to increase milk nondescript production of Non descript cattle population through AI, Jersey and HF are the breed of choice. The level of exotic inheritance limited to 50%.
67 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
Sl. State/UT Breed Breeding Policy (Salient features) No ii) Grading up non descript buffalo population with Murrah breed. 10 Jammu & Local cattle Optimum level of Exotic blood for upgradation of Kashmir Buffalo: non breed. descript i) The exotic inheritance of Jersey in general in Jammu & Kashmir state and Holstein Friesian in the plains of Jammu and Kashmir state shall be maintained between 50 and 62.5 percent level in graded cattle. ii) The Graded bulls used shall be locally selected. Practice of importing half bred of tropical agro climatic condition for the temperate agro-climatic condition of the State should be stopped. iii) Selective breeding by using superior sires available locally. For realizing this we need to screen a large number of Buffalo Bulls with accurate information on their breeding values and use the best one so that reasonable selection intensity can be achieved. iv) Using of Frozen Semen of the selected sires of elite herds of Murrah/Nilli-Ravi breeds maintained in the farms of Central Buffalo Research Institute. Hissar (Haryana)/Naba (Punjab). Since the semen of these animals will be from different Agro Climatic areas, it is imperative to study the performance of different grades before formulating final breeding Policy. 11 Jharkhand Local cattle i) Cross breeding with exotic breeds to increase Buffalo: non productivity of non descript cattle population. The descript level of exotic inheritance limited to 50% and allowed to be increased upto 62.5% in exceptional cases. Crossbreeding with exotic breeds will be taken up in urban and periurban areas. If need arise back crossing of crossbreds with indigenous breeds will be allowed. ii) Upgrading non descript cattle with the bulls of recognized indigenous breed like Tharparkar, Red Sindhi, Shaiwal, and Hariana. iii) Genetic upgradation of nondescript cattle population with exotic breeds will also be allowed, preferably with Jersey semen. iv) Upgrading non descript buffalo population with Murrah breed.
68 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
Sl. State/UT Breed Breeding Policy (Salient features) No 12 Karnataka Cattle: Deoni, i) Indigenous breeds (Hallikar, Amritmahal, Krishna Krishna Valley, Valley, Deoni and Khillar) in the breeding tract will be Khillar, Amrit developed through selective breeding. Breeders in the Mahal, Hallikar, areas will be encouraged to produce bulls for further Local cattle development. Buffalo: Non ii) Cross breeding nondescript with exotic breeds (HF descript, graded & Jersey). The level of exotic inheritance will be maintained at 50 % in the areas having limited fodder production facilities. In areas where fodder production is more promising and milk marketing is well-planned higher exotic blood up to 62.5% will be allowed. iii) Surti is the breed of choice for genetic upgradation of buffalo population in the State. 13 Kerala Cattle: Vechur, i) Only Jersey and the Holstein Breed will be used as Non descript, exotic donor breeds. Jersey and its crossbred lines will crossbred be used in larger proportions. ii) Exotic inheritance will be limited to around 50%. The farmers having high inputs, commercial and specialized dairy farms will be allowed to maintain animals of higher exotic inheritance. iii) The F1 bull production programme will be strengthened using imported semen of Jersey and HF breeds on well-recognized indigenous breeds. iv) Replacement of around 20% of the exotic bull stock annually with exotic bulls of high genetic potential preferably from unrelated sources. v) Culling of the 2% of the Sunandini population for poor milk production and 1% for delayed calving age. vi) Proven bull semen will be utilized extensively among the elite cows. Genetic superiority of the proven bull will be employed in the general herd and the test herd. 14 Madhya Nimari Malvi i) Selective breeding of indigenous breeds in the home Pradesh Kenkatha Non- tract –malvi in malva tract, Nimari in Nimar tract and descript Kenkatha in Ken valley in Panna District. Buffalo: ii) Upgrading non descript cattle with recognized Bhadawari, indigenous breed like Haryana, Tharparkar and graded Shaiwal. iii) Cross breeding of non descript cattle population with exotic breeds (Jersey and Holstein Friesian) and maintenance of exotic of blood level up to 50% for general higher blood level in the organized farms. iv) Genetic up gradation of buffaloes with Murrah breed and selective breeding of Bhadawari breed in its breeding tract. 15 Maharashtra Catle: Khillar, i) Crossbreeding programme for genetic upgradation of Dangi, Deoni, targeted non descript population in the areas suitable Gaulao, Red
69 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
Sl. State/UT Breed Breeding Policy (Salient features) No Kandhari, non for crossbreeding. descript ii) Selective breeding in the breeding tract of Buffalo: indigenous breeds by introduction of by true to types Pandharpuri, bulls. Nagpuri iii) In the areas where crossbreeding for genetic upgradation is not suitable such as tribal, hilly and non accessible areas by upgrading with indigenous breeds will be taken up. iv) Conservation of native breeds by upgrading using semen of proven/true to type bulls of the same breed and also be appropriate advanced means of biotechnology such as semen preservation and embryo preservation. v) For crossbreeding Jersey and HF will be the breed of choice in cattle. Inheritance level in the crossbred population under the normal condition will be limited to 50%.However, under the favourable environmental conditions with farmers having better resources and management level the exotic blood level will be increased to 75% only on the demand of the cattle owner. vi) In the breeding tract of Deoni, Dangi, Khillar, Gaulao and Red Kandhari will be protected and propagated. vii) Introduction of selective bulls in the breeding tract of indigenous breeds. viii) Supply of semen straws of indigenous bull for undertaking AI in the breeding tract of these breeds. Upgradation of non descript buffaloes using Surti, Murrah, Mehsana, Jafarabadi, Pandharpuri and Nagpuri breeds. 2. Selective breeding in the breeding tract of indigenous breed. 3. Conservation of Pandharpuri, Nagpuri buffaloes in the breeding tract in other areas having similar geo- climatic solutions. These breeds will also be used for upgrading non descript buffaloes if demanded by the owner. 16 Manipur Local cattle Grading up, with Red sindhi; cross breeding with Jersey 17 Meghalaya Local cattle Grading up, with Red sindhi; cross breeding with Jersey 18 Mizoram Local cattle Grading up, with Hariana; cross breeding with Jersey 19 Nagaland Local cattle Grading up, with Hariana; cross breeding with Jersey 20 Orissa Local cattle i) Crossbreeding with Holstein Frisian semen is to be undertaken in the specific pockets like urban areas and places having elite farmers limiting the exotic
70 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
Sl. State/UT Breed Breeding Policy (Salient features) No inheritance to 50%. ii) Crossbreeding with Jersey is to be adopted throughout the State limiting the exotic inheritance to 50%. iii) Interested and elite farmers be given scope to develop and maintain crossbred animals upto the level of 62.5% of exotic blood. iv) Facilities for breeding with Hariana should be made available throughout the State for which Hariana semen shall be made available at all AI centres. v): Use of Red Sindhi for breeding purposes shall be gradually discontinued. But the CB bulls with 50% Red Sindhi and 50% Jersey blood shall be used for breeding crossbred cows. 21 Punjab Cattle: Sahiwal, i) Cross breeding of non-descript cattle with exotic Non descript breeds to increase milk production of Non descript cattle, crossbred cattle population through AI, HF and Jersey are the cattle breed of choice. Exotic blood restricted to 50% by Buffalo: inter se mating of the crossbred with crossbred bulls. Murrah, Nili However, the farmers with better knowledge and Ravi & graded facilities for dairy farm management can produce Murrah higher grades of crossbred cows with 75% of the exotic inheritance. ii) Sahiwal breed of cattle developed through selective breeding in the breeding tract. iii) Nili-Ravi breed of the buffalo developed through selective breeding in the breeding tract. iv) In rest of the State, buffaloes will be developed through Murrah breed. 22 Rajasthan Cattle: Nagori, i) Development of indigenous breeds like Tharparkar, Malvi, Rathi, Rathi, Hariana, Malvi, Kankrej, Gir and Nagouri in Tharparkar, Gir, breeding tracts/ areas with sizeable population/animals Kankrej, in true forms through selective breeding. Hariana and non ii) Upgrading nondescript cattle population with descript cattle improved indigenous breeds like Tharparkar, Rathi, Buffalo: Gir etc. Murrah, graded iii) Cross breeding on demand will be followed in the Murrah & Surti areas adjoining to the cities and town and also in areas with adequate feed and fodder availability, subject to crossbreeding will not be done on the animals of home tract districts areas and on animals having blood of indigenous breeds. iv) Exotic blood level in the crossbred animals will be maintained between 50-62.5%. HF and Jersey will be the breed of choice in the State. v) Scrub bulls and calves not reared for breeding purposes will be castrated. Scrub bulls and calves, which has attained puberty, will be castrated in a
71 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
Sl. State/UT Breed Breeding Policy (Salient features) No prescribed manner and subsequently replaced by elite bulls of indigenous breeds. vi) Upgrading nondescript buffalo population in the Northern belt of the State i.e. jaipur, Bikaner, Kota, Ajmer and Bharatpur region by Murrah Breed of buffalo. vii) Upgrading non descript buffalo population in the Southern belt of the State i.e. Udaipur region Surti breed of buffalo. On demand breeding by Murrah buffalo will be taken up. 23 Sikkim Siri, local cattle i) Selective breeding for indigenous breeds ii) Grading up, with Hariana; cross breeding with Jersey 24 Tamilnadu Cattle: i) Selective breeding for development of indigenous Kangayam, , breeds (Kangayam, Umblacherry & Bargur). Umblachery, ii) Crossbreeding non descript cattle with exotic breeds Bargur, Hallikar (Jersey & HF) up to 50% exotic inheritance Non-descript iii) Grading up non descript buffalo with Murrah cattle Buffalo. Buffalo: Toda, non descript 25 Tripura Local cattle Grading up, with Tharparkar; cross breeding with Jersey 26 Uttar Pradesh Cattle: i) Cross breeding with exotic breeds to increase milk Kenkatha, production of non descript cattle population through Powar, Hariana, AI, HF and Jersey are the breed of choice. The level of Tharparkar, exotic inheritance maintained at 50%. Sahiwal ii) Upgrading non descript cattle with recognized indigenous breed, where farmer wants to upgrade their and improve their performance particularly draught power. iii) Selective breeding and upgrading of all buffalo stock with high quality Murrah Bulls. iv) Indigenous breeds of cattle- Shaiwal, Hariana Gangatiri and Tharparkar and Bhadawari buffalo are brought under a breed conservation and development programme. Farmers will not be compelled for breed conservation and development at an economic disadvantage to them. 27 Uttarakhand Non descript i) Cross breeding with exotic breeds to increase milk Buffalo: non production of non descript cattle through AI, HF and descript and Jersey are the breed of choice. The level of exotic graded inheritance limited to 50%. ii) Indigenous breeds of cattle shall be bred with the same indigenous breed. iii) Upgrading of buffalo population with Murrah breed.
72 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
Sl. State/UT Breed Breeding Policy (Salient features) No iv) The Indigenous breed of cattle- Red Sindhi is brought under a breed conservation and development program. v) Selective breeding in the hill cattle for the continued production of bullocks for draught purposes. 28 West Bengal Cattle: Non i) Upgradation with improved indigenous breed will be descript, allowed only for non-descript animals in the State. crossbred cattle ii) Having regard to the availability of improved indigenous breed, Sahiwal and Gir breeds will be used for upgradation. iii) Sahiwal breed will be used in the district of Darjeeling, Coochbehar, Jalpaiguri, Uttar Dinajpur, Dakshin Dinajpur, Malda, Murshidabad, Nadia and Hooghly. iv) Gir breed will be used in North 24-Parganas, South 24-Parganas, Purba Medinipur, Paschim Medinipur, Birbhum, Purulia, Bankura, Bardhaman and Howrah. v) Upgradation will normally be zone-specific. In a particular zone, only one of the above-stated improved indigenous breeds will normally be used for upgrading. However, the choice of farmer will be given due regard in allowing him/her to use either of the two descript breeds for upgradation in any of the zones as stated above. vi) Upgradation and crossbreeding will be 80% and 20% respectively of the total cattle population. vii) Cross-breeding will be done by West Bengal Milk Producers' Union Ltd. N.G.O.s and Progressive farmers where adequate feed/fodder resources are available, in addition to those being catered to in Government Animal Health Centres by agencies recognized by State Government. viii) For the purpose of Crossbreeding, only Jersey will be used for its smaller size and greater adaptability to the agro-climatic environment of West Bengal. ix) Crossing of existing crossbreeds may be taken up in a controlled manner so that exotic inheritance shall not be increased beyond 50% in any case. x) Holstein Friesian, pure or its cross semen, may be made available by the Paschim Banga Go-Sampad Bikash Sanstha (PBGSBS) to those farmers who are interested in rearing Holstein cross-breed against proper indent. xi) PBGSBS will provide pure semen of Jersey, Sahiwal and Gir and also cross semen of Jersey as per area recommended to the farmers in general. xii) PBGSBS will procure Holstein Friesian semen from other states and it may charge additional cost for its procurement.
73 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
8. Breeding of other Species of Livestock 8.1 Breeding policy for sheep and goats This is aim to improve growth, body weight, reproductive efficiency, meat and wool quality and quantity, and to reduce mortality. An area specific approach is being adopted to improve quality and quantity of coarse wool and fine wool. Main focus is on to produce and distribute good quality rams/bucks of quality indigenous breeds which can thrive in different agro- climatic conditions. Artificial insemination would also being encouraged specially in goats. Cross-breeding with high yielding exotic and other native breeds of goats is also being considered by the States. 8.2 Breeding policy for pigs This has focus on improving growth, prolificacy, quality and quantity of meat produced, survivability and utilization of low cost locally available feed and manage-mental conditions. While efforts are on to conserve some of the meritorious indigenous breeds of pigs in their defined local tracts, crossbreeding with high yielding, disease resistant exotic breeds is also being encouraged, with maximum 50% level of exotic germplasm in crossbred population. 8.3 Breeding of yak and mithun Breeding is supported in high altitude agro climatic regions for preservation and further development through selection, and where possible, through crossbreeding with exotic germplasm in order to reduce inbreeding depression. 8.4 Breeding of equines Breeding of horses, mules, and donkeys is promoted to produce high quality stock for draft power and sports purposes. Selective breeding of indigenous breeds and cross breeding, where necessary, is also being considered by the States. 8.5 Breeding of camels Aims at improving their desert specific draft power, milk production and disease resistance and sports traits. Breeding of double hump camel in high altitude areas is being supported through import of semen to minimize otherwise high chances of inbreeding.
9. Breeding Network Available in India for Cattle and Buffalo Breeding 9.1 Semen station There are 57 semen stations, 38 with the central and state governments, 9 with cooperatives, 5 with National Dairy Development Board Dairy Services (NDDB), and 2 with NGOs and 3 with private. These semen stations together
74 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India in 2016-17 produced some 115 million doses-10 % of local breeds, 30% exotic (HF and Jersey), 30% crossbred cattle, and 30% buffaloes. Out of these 57 semen stations 47 have been graded as ‘A’ and ‘B’. and all have obtained ISO certification. All the semen stations in the country are following Minimum Standard Protocol formulated by Government of India in semen production available on the web site www.dahd.nic.in. Sex sorted semen production facility have been created at two semen station with the capacity of 1.6 million doses annually. 9.2 AI delivery There are 1,03,000 AI centres, 80,000 with government (including private AI technicians supported by state governments), 15,000 with cooperatives and 8,000 with NGOs and private carrying out in all about 74 million inseminations annually. This is one of the largest breeding network in the world. 9.3 AI coverage At present 30% of the breedable bovine females in India are under AI coverage. Present conception rate ranges between 30 to 35%. Remaining breedable bovine females are covered through scrub bulls of unknown genetic merit. Only 21,700 bulls of known dams genetic potential are available for natural service and these bulls are managed by bull keepers.
Figure 2. Breeding network in India
75 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
10. Challenges in Dairy Development in India Notwithstanding past success, the Indian dairy sector is facing renewed productivity challenges today. These include: 10.1 Shortage of feed & fodder A large gap exists between the requirement and the availability of feeds and fodder in the country. The mainstay of Indian dairy cattle and buffalos are straws and other dry fodder, with green fodder as a supplement, and concentrate feeds as available. De-oiled cakes/meals are major ingredient of the cattle feed which constitutes about 60% -70% cost of production of milk. 10.2 Animals with low productivity Milk production in India is largely low input low output system owing to a large number of non-descript indigenous dairy still being reared for milk. The emphasis has been on cross-breeding, with limited attention to improvement of indigenous breeds. The average productivity of animals major dairy nation is as under:
Table 6. Average productivity in different Countries Country Number of Milk production In million Average animals in metric tons(milk production productivity kg/ milk (In form cattle and buffaloes year/animal millions) excluding goats) India 90.59 157.8 1742 USA 9.23 90.86 9901 China 12.52 40.84 2933 Pakistan 22.6 36.39 1602 Germany 4.19 30.5 7292 Netherlands 1.5 11.68 7576 New 5.01 20.05 3946 Zealand World 330.28 723.16 2189
10.3 Poor AI coverage Coverage of Artificial Insemination among breedable animals is very poor. Artificial insemination (AI) programs could cover only about 30% of the nationwide breed able animals with low conception rates (less than 50%) which hovering around 30% against the AI coverage of more than 80% in developed dairy nation. Low AI coverage is the major issue in all Asian countries.
76 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
10.4 Effective extension service Extension service delivery has been very weak in the livestock sector due to inadequacy of resources and the lack of expertise to conceive and operate technology transfer packages. 10.5 Robust regulatory mechanism Absence of a robust regulatory framework that sets standards and protocols for semen production and delivery of AI services for a long time has affected the quality. Absence of standards and labelling requirements for production and sale of cattle feed continues to be an area of concern. 10.6 Environmental sustainability (i) Overgrazing threatens the sustainability of common property resources (pastures, grasslands, forests) considered to be the primary source of feeding for smallholders’ livestock (ii) high yielding dairy animals require additional supply of feed and fodder and would put increasing pressure on land and water resources (iii) larger bovine production cause green house gas emissions (methane) and pollution of water ways. 10.7 Value addition GDP growth has influenced in increasing demand for milk and value added milk products. Further, with the increase in procurement price by dairy industry (including cooperatives) average milk procurement by organized sector has increased from about 540 lakh litre per day (LLPD) to about 750 LLPD during last two years. A pro-rata growth in processing capacity is the need of the hour. 10.8 Lack of cold chain infrastructure Cold chain infrastructure to preserve the milk from farm gate to the point of consumption is lacking in most States. Milk requires to be preserved to maintain its quality and prevent wastage. Only about 7% of total milk produced and 33% of milk procurement by organized sector is chilled to preserve milk and prevent bacteriological contamination. 11. Opportunities 11.1 Notwithstanding the challenges mentioned above there is a great opportunity to increase milk production and make dairying a means of sustainable livelihood for the farmers. 11.1 Scope for productivity enhancement In spite of India’s position as highest producer of milk, productivity of our bovines is very poor. It is only 1742 kg/year as compared to the world average of 2,159 kg/year. There is significant scope for improving productivity at the farm level. For instance, average milk yield of Indian cows is only about 4.36 kg/day against a world average of 6.4 kg/day. Less than 20% of the cattle are cross-bred with relatively high milk yields, while a
77 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India vast proportion are indigenous non-descript cattle with very low milk yields. Productivity is low mainly due to poor nutrition, low genetic potential for milk production, and slow pace of genetic improvement programs. While R&D efforts have highlighted micronutrient deficiencies at local levels, limited attention has been paid to increasing availability of area specific mineral mixtures, by pass protein, or enriched crop residues in the form of blocks, pellets etc. 11.2 Expanding organised sector About half of the milk produced is marketed, with only about 30% of the marketed milk handled by the organized sector. Small producers are particularly affected as they are forced to sell their marketable surplus to informal traders who, during the flush production season, often offer less than market prices or even decline to procure output. Also, from a health and food safety perspective, milk processed and marketed by the organized sector is safer and less likely to be contaminated. A key development priority therefore is increasing the role of the organized sector in the share of milk handled. Whereas in advanced economies more than 90% of the milk is processed by the organized sector, in India this figure is only about 16%. Scaling up the reach of the organized sector in a manner consistent with food safety norms is an important element of ensuring safe milk for consumers. This is an area of focus through the various schemes of the government and is expected to connect the dairy farmers with markets. 11.3 Growing demand The consumer demand for milk is growing in the country fuelled by rising incomes and a preference for animal proteins. A large section of vegetarian population meets its requirement of protein from milk and milk products and this demand is expected to grow with greater availability of milk and milk products.
12. Strategies for Cattle and Buffalo Breeding 12.1 Selective breeding To enhance milk production and productivity of dairy animals and meet the demand of milk national action plan has been formulated by Government of India. As per the national action plan, the total bovine population is 300 million (19th Livestock Census) of which crossbred cattle are 39.7 million; indigenous cattle constitute 151.17 million and buffalo population is 108.70 million. The population of animals in milk is around 90.59 million (as integrated sample survey 2017). The action plan aims at to enhance milk production to 275.89 million tons by 2020-21 and 300 million tons by 2023- 24. The action plan envisages to enhance productivity of animals from present level of 4.77 kg per to 6.77 kg per day per animal. Under the action plan, it is targeted to have a total of 97.45 million in milk by 2020-21 and
78 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
112 million by 2023-24. At present 4000 bulls are available at the semen stations and 122 million doses are produced annually against the requirement of 8800 bulls and 200 million frozen doses by 2020-21 for 70% coverage through AI. No doubt cross breeding in India has resulted in increase in milk production but focus on increasing milk productivity of Indigenous Breeds did not received required attention. The breeding programmes, therefore have to be re-oriented towards improvement of indigenous breeds for which a system needs to be set up which would allow selection within the population. The indigenous breeds to be improved through selective breeding need to be identified. The magnitude to which these are to be used in grading up of local cattle and their numbers required should be worked out in detail so that appropriate programmes for their multiplication, improvement and production of quality bulls can be achieved.
Table 7. Estimated bulls required for improving Indigenous cattle in India
Bulls Available Gap Bulls Bulls Required at Semen required for required for Total for Stations Selective upgrading Requirement Grading Particulars breeding graded for 100 AI ND cattle coverage of (B- (C- (D- IB Category) Category) Category)
Cattle 577 649 3675 4901 450 4451
12.2 Breeds in focus With increasing economic importance of milk and reducing requirement of bovine for agriculture related activities, breeds which are good milk yielder shall be given priority in breeding plans. Selective Breed improvement programme is need of hour to improve our well defined dairy cattle breeds like Sahiwal, Gir, Tharparkar, Red Sindhi, Rathi, Kankrej & Haryana 12.2.1 Selective breeding among pure bred animals It is essential to carry out selective breeding among pure bred animals of seven above identified breeds. Selective breeding in pure bred animals not only carried in their native tracts/states but also in other part of the country where they are available in pure form. For other indigenous breeds, selective breeding is to be carried out only in the native tract/state. Under this program large scale field based milk recording program has to be carried out in order to identify elite animals of each breed. These Identified elite animals will be inseminated with HGM bull’s semen to produce high genetic merit (HGM) bulls for semen production. It is important to note that
79 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India the large scale milk recording and HGM bull production to be carried out only in the native tracts. But the bulls produced from these native tracts may be send across the country for semen production and use in AI program. Upgrading the graded cattle with pure bred semen of that particular breed: The graded animals to be bred with the semen of pure breed bulls so that this population can be converted into pure breeds. For all the breeds except Sahiwal, Gir, Rathi, Tharparkar and Hariana, only graded animals available in the native state of that breed to be bred with the semen of pure breed HGM bulls. The graded cows of Sahiwal, Gir, Rathi, Tharparkar and Hariana available in other parts of the country apart from their native tract may be bred with pure breed semen of HGM bull due to relatively higher demand of these breeds across India. Conversion of non-descript cattle into defined breeds through upgrading: There are 11.33 crore non-descript (ND) cattle in India (59%) which are poor milk yielders and through improve of this herd we can achieve faster increase in Milk Production. Till now, most of the states are trying to convert this ND population into Cross bred population by breeding with either semen of cross bred bulls or exotic bulls. ND animals (40.77 million breedable) may be upgraded with semen of HGM bulls of Indian breeds. Sahiwal and Gir may be used to upgrade 40% of breedable ND population as these breeds are major dairying breeds of India and has higher acceptance among farmers. Tharparkar, Hariana, Kankrej and Rathi may be used to upgrade all ND cows available in their native state except those ND cows which are available in the native tracts of other draught purpose breeds. The ND cows available in the native tracts of draught purpose breeds may be upgraded with the draught purpose breed semen in order to create pure herd of that breed in particular geographic area. 12.2.2 Embryo transfer technology Embryo transfer (ET) normally means collection of an embryo from a donor female and its transfer to female, which carries it to full term. Through a method called “super-ovulation”, the donors can be made to produce more number of eggs in a cycle (normally a cow or a buffalo sheds only one egg) by treating it with hormones. Thus, the harvest of embryos can be increased manifold through super-ovulation. This technique is popularly known as multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET). 12.2.3 In vivo embryo production The in-vivo production of embryos involves selection of superior animal (called as a donor) for a defined trait (example-milk volume, milk fat, milk protein, age at first calving etc), from the population followed by multiple injections of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH )hormone which is called super ovulation. This process leads to multiple ovulations from the donor cow. The Super ovulated animal is bred by proven Sire or Semen of proven
80 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India sire which leads to fertilization of multiple oocytes inside the donor uterus. Seven days later of breeding (AI/natural) the uterus horns are flushed to extract the embryos and ova (unfertilized, fertilized or degenerate). The embryos and ova are searched, washed and graded under the microscope. The embryos are loaded into the straws for transfers into the donor estrus based synchronized cows/heifers (called as recipients) which may be genetically inferior or the embryos can be frozen for future use. On average 5 to 8 calves can be produced from one donor per year by transfers of in vivo produced embryos 12.2.4 In vitro embryo production The in-vitro embryo production (IVP) system involves four steps: (a) the recovery of oocytes from antral follicles may be from abattoir materials or live donors by follicle aspiration which is called as ultrasound guided transvaginal ovum pick up. (b) in vitro maturation (IVM) of these oocytes (c) the in vitro fertilization (IVF) of the matured oocytes and (d) in vitro culture (IVC) of the resulting embryos. These embryos can be transferred into the recipients or can be frozen for future use. The IVM, IVF and IVC is conducted in the presence of an incubator with controlled temperature and gas atmosphere mimicking the uterine conditions. On an average 30 calves can be produced from one donor per year. The technology has been promoted by all advanced dairy nations for propagation of elite animals and production high genetic merit bulls. The technology is used by all advanced dairy countries for production of HGM bulls and bulls for use as donor animals. In ET, embryos can be held outside the body of the animal for some time. This had led to development of many techniques to manipulate the embryos, which would further increase the benefits of ET. Some of these techniques are embryo cloning, embryo sexing, cryopreservation, injection of genes and production of transgenic animals etc. The cryopreservation of embryos has changed the whole concept of animal transport. It is easy and economical to transport hundreds of frozen embryos in a liquid nitrogen container. Moreover, an exotic animal is better adapted to a new environment when it is born in it through frozen embryo transfer. In order to initiate ETT/IVF techniques as tools for livestock improvement there is a need for creation of infrastructure for research and training; development of a skill pool; and transfer of technology for the benefit of farmers. Creation of an infrastructure for continuous production of ‘seed stock’ of genetically superior stock of different breed of cattle and buffaloes, required under national goal as per national action plan, and a network to provide the benefits of the ET technology to milk producers at the village level. To meet requirement of bulls and elite bull mothers to produce future generation of bulls NAP envisages establishing 50 embryo transfer
81 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India technology (ETT) labs in the country by 2023-24. In the first Phase 20 ETT labs with IVF facility are to be established by 2020-21. From these labs 3000 HYIB bulls of will be produced to meet requirement of bulls at the semen stations and requirement of elite bull mothers at bull mother farms and ETT centres. State wise labs required to be established in the country is given below.
Table 8. ETT Labs required to meet targets laid down under NAP Sl. No State Breedable Bovine No of ETT Lab Females (in lakh) required 1 Andhra Pradesh 54.32 2 2 Bihar 95.54 4 3 Chhattisgarh 36.35 1 4 Goa 0.4 5 Gujarat 95.99 4 6 Haryana 37.05 1 7 Himachal Pradesh 13.64 1 8 Jammu & Kashmir 16.35 1 9 Jharkhand 29.58 1 10 Karnataka 63.7 3 11 Kerala 6.64 1 12 Madhya Pradesh 109.9 4 13 Maharshtra 86.75 3 14 Odisha 36.42 2 15 Punjab 40.7 2 16 Rajasthan 132.75 4 17 Tamil Nadu 47.8 2 18 Telangana 36 1 19 Uttar Pradesh 240.11 8 20 Uttarakhand 13.78 1 21 West Bengal 64.21 2 22 Puducherry 0.33 23 Assam 36.19 2 24 Arunachal Pradesh 1.39 25 Manipur 1.14 26 Meghalaya 3.35 27 Mizoram 0.17
82 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in India
Sl. No State Breedable Bovine No of ETT Lab Females (in lakh) required 28 Nagaland 0.94 29 Sikkim 0.6 30 Tripura 3.37 Total 1305.46 50
13. References National Mission on Bovine Productivity.(2016).Department of Animal Husbandry Dairying & Fisheries. Government of India. Animal genetic Resources of India: National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources- http://www.nbagr.res.in Annual Report. (2018).Department of Animal Husbandry Dairying & Fisheries, Government of India. Annual Report. (2018). National Dairy Development Board, Anand Gujarat, India. Annual Reports of State Livestock Development Boards. (2017).Received from various States under Rashtriya Gokul Mission. Department of Animal Husbandry Dairying & Fisheries, Government of India. Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics.(2017).Department of Animal husbandry, dairying & Fisheries. Rashtriya Gokul Mission. (2014).Department of Animal Husbandry Dairying & Fisheries, Government of India. National Kamdhenu Breeding Centre.(2014).Department of Animal Husbandry Dairying & Fisheries, Government of India. Country Report on Animal Genetic Resources of India.(2004).Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries, Government of India. National Commission on Agriculture.(1976). Animal Husbandry, Part VII, Government of India. National Livestock Policy.(2013).Department of Animal Husbandry Dairying & Fisheries, Government of India. Minimum Standards Protocol for Semen Production.(2013).Department of Animal Husbandry Dairying & Fisheries, Government of India. Minimum Standard Protocol for Embryo production.(2017).Department of Animal Husbandry Dairying & Fisheries, Government of India. Nivsarkar, A.E., Vij, P.K., and Tantia, M.S. (2000).Animal Genetic Resources of India Cattle and Buffalo.ICAR Publication, 381pp. Progress Reports on implementation of Rashtriya Gokul Mission.(2018). Department of Animal Husbandry Dairying & Fisheries, Government of India. State Wise Milk production in India.(2018).Special communication from statistics Division, Department of Animal Husbandry Dairying & Fisheries, Government of India. The State of The World’s Animal Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture. (2015). Commission on genetic resources for Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
83 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
Chapter 5 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
Rudra Prasad Poudel1* and Lok Nath Paudel2 National Livestock Breeding Center, Department of Livestock Services Pokhara, Nepal District Livestock Services Office, Department of Livestock Services, ,Arghakhanchi, Nepal *Email: [email protected]
1. Background Nepal is an agrarian country with 65% of its population directly involved in crop and livestock farming. Eighty percent of the farmers in Nepal raise livestock. It is an important commodity of Nepalese agriculture as it contributes around 12% to national gross domestic production (GDP) and 27% to agricultural GDP. This contribution would have been even higher if the values of draught power and manure had included in GDP calculation. The agriculture perspective plan (1995-2015) had envisaged the potentiality of livestock sector to contribute about 45% to the agricultural GDP (MoAD, 2015). Livestock provides food, power, fiber, fertilizer, fuel, transportation and income which has been a great role in food and nutrition security and poverty reduction. Most importantly, the majority of poor people (in all three ecological regions-himalayas, hills and terai) raise livestock as a source of livelihood in which more than 70% of the Nepalese women population are directly or indirectly involved. Though the majorities of farmers are small holders raising 2-3 animals/family and having subsistence level of production, the commercialization especially in poultry, dairy and pig has accelerated in recent years. In fact, the poultry sector has transformed into industry with more than 60 billion Nepalese rupees of investment. There are more than 120 poultry hatcheries and thousands of broilers and layers farms in Nepal. The poultry industry is supported by more than 120 feed industries. About 800 dairy processing industries with a capacity of more than 1000 litre/day are at present collecting milk from farmers through 1700 co-operatives in the country. The major livestock products include milk, meat and egg, with less volume of wool and leather. As per the recent data, the present annual production of
84 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal milk and meat is 1.911 million metric tons (MT) and 0.332 million MT, respectively while total number of egg production is about 1400 million. Annual change in milk, meat and egg production from fiscal year (FY) 2014/015 to 2015/016 is 5, 6 and 37%, respectively (DLS, 2015/2016). The production of wool is in decreasing rate. The 14th periodic plan (2016/17- 2018/19) targets to increase the production of milk, meat and eggs to 2.59 million MT, 0.417 million MT and 1570 million number, respectively by 2018/19. The annual per capita availability of milk, meat and eggs in 2017 is shown in table 1 below.
Table 1. Livestock products availability situation in Nepal Commodity Minimum Availability/ % Projected self- requirement/ capita/year deficit sufficiency year capita/year Milk (l) 91 72 21 2018/19 Meat (kg) 14 12 14 2018/19 Egg (nos.) 48 50 -- Self sufficient (MoLD, 2017)
Among livestock commodities, the major import items include live animals/birds, raw materials for feed industries and powder milk whereas woolen carpets, pashmina shawl and leather are the major export items produced from livestock and poultry. Woolen carpets are the major exportable item of Nepal. Out of the total export items woolen carpets, pashmina shawls and leather constitute about 12, 4 and 1% respectively. Agriculture Development Strategy (ADS-2015-2035) is the major policy guideline for agriculture and livestock development in Nepal. Among different objectives of ADS, some of the major objectives, e.g., limit stunting, underweight, wasting and women with low body mass index (BMI) to 8, 5, 1 and 5%, respectively, by 2035 are largely relied on the livestock development. Livestock farming is pivotal to meet the pressing national challenges of economic development, poverty alleviation, gender mainstreaming, equity, inclusion of marginalized and underprivileged communities, and climate vulnerability. The unique topography of Nepal makes it one of the richest countries in flora and fauna biodiversity. The three different ecological regions harbor different breeds of livestock that are used by farmers for their livelihood. These indigenous livestock and birds are the only source of animal proteins and income source in many parts of the country. But presently, the status of these breeds is deteriorating both in numbers and genetic makeup, with many breeds is on the danger of extinction. The common reasons behind this are farmers interest for high income generation,
85 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal increasing demand of milk/meat/eggs and government policy for quantitative increase of these products, introduction of exotic germplasm, poor implementation of agriculture policies, restriction of development to a few breeds, changing market requirements, degradation of ecosystems, etc.
2. Animal Population and Demography The major livestock species in Nepal include cattle, buffalo, goat, sheep, pig, poultry and ducks. There are also yak, naks, chauries, rabbits, horses, peasant, ostrich, turkey, etc. being raised either for aesthetic or for commercial purpose. Out of the total population, only 15% of cattle and 35% of buffalo are improved indicating that a large number of animals are still indigenous in the country which are predominantly less productive in terms of milk production. Total population of livestock and poultry is given in table 2 and livestock production status in table 3 below.
Table 2. Livestock population status of Nepal Sl. Animal Population % improved Annual growth No Species (in millions) rate (%) 1 Cattle 7.3 13 0.84 2 Buffalo 5.1 36 0.02 3 Sheep 0.80 5-10 1.14 4 Goat 10.9 20 7.20 5 Pig 1.2 42 7.30 6 Fowl 68.6 50 37.00 7 Duck 0.39 0.50 8 Horse 0.055808 9 Yak and 0.068831 Chauri 10 Milking cow 1.0 0.02 11 Milking 1.3 0.76 buffaloes 12 Laying hen 12.3 47.0 11 Laying Duck 0.181 0.8 (MoLD , 2017) Table 3. Livestock production status of Nepal Sl. No. Category Production 1 Milk Production 1.91 Million Metric Tons (MT) Contribution % of buffalo milk 65% Contribution % of cow milk 35% 2 Meat production 0.332 Million Metric Tons (MT)
86 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
Sl. No. Category Production Buff 54% Chevon 20% Mutton 0.8% Chicken 17% Pork 7.3% others 0.9% Egg production (nos.) 1352 million Wool production (kg) 0.59 million kg (MoLD, 2017)
Nepal has vast resources of livestock and poultry, out of which only twenty five breeds (seven cattle including yak, three buffaloes, four goats, four sheep, three pigs, three poultry and one horse) are identified and characterized so far and many are still remained non-descript. Department of Livestock Services (DLS) and Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC) jointly prepared and submitted country report on farm animal genetic resources (AnGR) and registered in Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) database (FAO country report, 2004, 2014 and 2016). The population of these indigenous farm AnGRs is decreasing due to various reasons, such as declining pasture, less attraction of the youths towards livestock farming, better employment opportunities in other sectors including eco-tourism, etc. The government has emphasized on conservation, utilization and promotion of these AnGRs through policies in periodic plan and 20 year Agriculture Development Strategies (ADS). Following the guidelines, Animal Breeding Division (ABD), NARC, Khumaltar has taken the initiation on the ex situ and in situ conservation of different indigenous breeds which are listed as endangered and at the verge of extinction. Till date, three breeds of cattle namely, Lulu from Mustang district, Achhami from Achham district and Siri from Taplejung district; one breed of buffalo namely Gaddi from Dadeldhura district; three breeds of goat namely Sinhal, Khari and Terai; three breeds of Sheep namely Baruwal from Rasuwa district, Lampuchhre from Rupendehi district and Kage from Lalitpur district; two breeds of pig namely Hurrah from Eastern Nepal and Bampudke from Far-western region of Nepal; two breeds of chicken namely Sakini and Ghantikhuile from different altitudes of Nepal are raised under optimum management system to determine the genetic potential of these valuable FAnGR. Along with these ex situ and in situ conservation semen from bulls of Lulu and Achhami cattle has already been cryo-preserved in gene bank.
87 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
District Livestock Services Offices (DLSOs) also have prioritized programs on in-situ conservation of the endangered livestock breeds in their home tract. Various programs are conducted for conservation of indigenous genes through sustainable group breeding scheme and cryo-preservation by the establishment of gene bank at Khumaltar, Lalitpur. Some of the programs conducted by DLS are related to, i) Yak, Lulu, and Achhami cattle ii) Bhyanglung, Baruwal, Kage, and Lampuchhre sheep iii) Chyangra, and Khari goat iv) Chwanche, and Hurrah Pig, and v) Sakini, Pwankhulte and Ghantikhuile chicken
3. Indigenous Animal Breed and Breed Description At a Glance 3.1 Cattle 3.1.1 Achhami (Bos indicus) This is a hill cattle raised from 1400m to 2000m altitude from average sea level (ASL). Its body color varies from black to white i.e. black, brown, gray, white, spotted black and white. Adult body weight averages 116kg. Body length is 91cm. The average daily milk yield is 1.5 liter/animal. This is commonly known as nine-palm height cattle which is probably the dwarfest cattle in the world. 3.1.2 Lulu (Bos taurus) This is the only hump less indigenous cattle found in Nepal. It is an alpine cattle raised from 2500 to 4000 meter (m) from ASL. Body color varies from black to white, black, brown, gray, white, spotted black and white. Adult body weight averages 88cm. Head length is 35cm. The average daily milk yield is 1.6 liter/animal. 3.1.3 Siri (Bos indicus) The phenotype of this cattle has been extinct but the genotype is believed to exist in some cross breed cattle. It is a hill cattle raised from 1400m to 2000m from ASL. Body color varies from black to white i.e. black, brown, gray, white, spotted black and white. The average daily milk yield is 4.5lts 3.1.4 Terai cattle (Bos indicus): This cattle is raised in tropical plain areas of Nepal. Body color varies from black to white i.e. black, brown, gray, white, spotted black and white. Adult weight averages 177kg. Body length is 109cm. The average daily milk yield is 2.1 liter/animal. 3.1.5 Khaila (Bos indicus) Khaila cattle are centered in far western hilly region of the country and are good draught breed. They are also useful for manure and milk production.
88 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
They are larger size and strongly built. The average daily milk yield is 2.5 liter/animal. 3.1.6 Pahadi (Bos indicus) This cattle represents the majority of cattle population in the country. These are found across the hills and are good for draught purpose in the terraced hill conditions. They are also used for milk and manure. They are mostly black in color and are adaptable to cool climate. Pahadi black cattle are dominating cattle breed in Nepal. The average daily milk yield is 1.1 liter/animal. 3.1.7 Yak (Bos grunniens) Yak is an alpine cattle raised from 3000m to 5000m from ASL. The optimum ambient temperature for maintaining yak is 00 C to 100C, although yak can thrive far below the freezing point. In the mountainous and Himalayas areas yak (male) are crossed with female hill cattle to produce Chauri (female) and Jhopkyos (male). Chauries and Jhopkyos can come down and perform well to lower elevation than Yak and Nak (female of Yak). Based on the available information, Chauries and Jhopkyos production (kind of hybridization) in Nepal is unique in the world. Mating of Nak and male hill cattle is also possible, but not very commonly used. Chauries are very good milk yielder and males are sterile but are good for transportation as pack animal. The indigenous breeds of cattle and their characterization status are given in table 4(a), production parameter in table 4(b) and their height and body weight is given in table 4(c) below.
Table 4(a). Status of indigenous cattle breeds Breeds Location Characterization Status Lulu Mustang, Manang Phen+Chr+ DNA Population declining Achhami Achham, Doti Phen+Chr Endanger Siri Ilam Phen Extinct Khaila Far western region Phen Population declining Terai Across the terai Phen Normal Pahadi Across the hills Phen Normal Yak Mountain region Phen+Chr Population declining
Table 4 (b). Production performance of indigenous cattle breeds Breeds Age at 1st calving Calving intervals Average daily milk (months) (months) yield (litre) Lulu cattle 52 (46-58) 18 (12-24) 1.60.31 (0.5-3.57) Achhami 60 (48-72) 17 (12-24) 1.50.22 (1-4)
89 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
Breeds Age at 1st calving Calving intervals Average daily milk (months) (months) yield (litre) Siri 50 (42-70) 19.60.9 4.5 0.22 (2-6) Khaila 55 (50-65) 18.0 2.5 (2-3)
Yak 56.60.75 21.30.76 0.8 (0.5-2.0) Terai 49.90.46 16.30.23 2.1 (2-3)
Pahadi 50.11.1 17.61.98 1.1 (1-1.5)
Table 4 (c). Height and body weight of the indigenous cattle Parameters Lulu Achhami Siri Khaila Yak Terai Pahadi Height at wither 87.20.8 90.80.96 116.30.97120 1.80104.4 2.8104.1 1.15102.1 1.20 Body weight (kg) 124.72 125.17.46 286.57.5298 1.1 192.92.1210 1.5 165.61.8
In addition to these indigenous breeds of cattle, about 15% of the total cattle species are found as exotic or crossbred cattle, especially Jersey, Holstein Friesian, Haryana, Brown Swiss, Sahiwal, etc. The number of these exotic breeds is increasing as the commercialization proceeds ahead.
3.2 Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) 3.2.1 Parkote This is a high altitude water buffalo. Mean body weight is 323kg. The body length averages 120cm with the heart girth of 164cm. Body color is slightly gray. Wither height is 120cm. The average daily milk yield is 2.77 liter/animal. 3.2.2 Lime This water buffalo is generally found in mid hills of Nepal. Mean body weight is 330kg. The body length averages 120cm with the heart girth of 164cm. The average daily milk yield is 3.0 liter/animal. 3.2.3 Gaddi Gaddi buffaloes are located in far western hilly region of the country and are good milk yielder. They are also used for meat and manure. They are also riverine type. The population is declining and needs attention from the conservation point of view. The average daily milk yield per animal is 3.5liter. Major locations, breed characterization and population status of indigenous buffalo in Nepal are presented in table 5(a) and their production performance in table 5(b).
90 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
Table 5(a). Status of indigenous buffalo breeds found in Nepal. Breeds Location Characterization Status Lime Mid hills (especially western part) Phen+Chr Population declining Parkote Mid hills (especially western part) Phen+Chr Normal Gaddi Far western region Phen+Chr Population declining
Table 5(b). Production performance of indigenous buffalo breeds Breed Body Age at first calving Calving Average daily weight kg (months) Interval milk yield ( litre) (years) Parkote 342 60 1.6 2.77 Lime 311 60 1.75 3 Gaddi 452 47 1.9 3.5
Recently, Terai buffaloes with typical phenotypic characteristics are identified in eastern terai region of Nepal and characterized in phenotypic and genetic level. Terai buffaloes are found across the terai region of Nepal from east to west. Terai buffalo breeds have plain hair color pattern with black hair coat color and pigmented skin, muzzle, eye, eyelid and hoof color. They have mostly and dominantly white tail tip and fixed type horn attachment and grey and black horn color with dull but straight hair type. The adult body weight is 331kg with 171cm heart girth, 129cm body length, 132cm wither height, 33cm horn length and 28cm of ear length. Similarly the wild form of buffalo, Arna (Bubalus bubalis arnee) are found in the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Conservation Area in Sunsari district of eastern Nepal. There could be good potentiality for meat production from this breed. Apart from these identified breeds, there are still many nondescript buffaloes in terai and hills regions. Murrah is commonly found as cross bred buffalo in Nepal. Improved buffaloes (crossbred of Indian Murrah with indigenous buffaloes) account about 35%of the total number of buffaloes in Nepal. 3.3 Goat (Caprus hircus) 3.3.1 Chyangra Chyangra goats are reared in trans-himalayan region above 2500m ASL. They have been reared in situ conservation by farmers themselves. They are suitable for meat, pack and pashmina production. The population of Chyangra is declining. They constitute 1% of total indigenous goat population in Nepal. 3.3.2 Sinhal This is a high mountain goat. Its body color varies from black, white, gray, mixed black and white color. Adult average body weight is 22kg. Its body
91 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal length varies from 50 to 64cm recorded in different localities. They constitute about 16% of total indigenous goat population in Nepal. 3.3.3 Khari Khari goats are the principal goat breed of the country and are found across the hills and inner valleys of the country. They are prolific breeders and good for meat purpose. They are hardy and well adapted to local environment. They constitute about 56% of total indigenous goat population in Nepal. 3.3.4 Terai goat This is reared in plain area of southern belt of Nepal. Body color varies from pure black to pure black with mixed patch of color. Its compact body weighs around 30kg with body length 63cm, and chest girth of 70cm. They constitute about 27% of total indigenous goat population in Nepal. Ecological location, breed characterization and population status are presented in table 6(a), production performance in table 6(b) and body parts measurements in table 6(c).
Table 6(a). Status of indigenous goat breeds Breeds Location Characterization Status Chyangra High mountain Phen Population declining Sinhal High mountain/ High hills Phen Normal Khari/Hill Mid hills Phen+Chr Normal Terai Terai Phen+Chr Pure line hardly exists
Table 6(b). Production Performances of indigenous goats (values are means ± standard errors.
Parameters Terai Khari Sinhal Chyangra Age at 1st services (days) 348±10.7 311±5.6 363±12.4 405±9.9 Wt. at 1st services (kg) 17.3±0.49 15.4±0.22 17.0±0.35 18.5±0.40 Age at 1st kidding (days) 491±5.1 453±6.2 576±9.8 555±9.6 Wt. at 1st kidding (kg) 19.5±0.56 17.8±0.23 20.5±0.42 18.8±0.35 Kidding Intervals (days) 336±4.2 302±3.7 287±5.4 354±8.7 Litter size at birth (no) 1.4±0.21 1.6±0.02 1.1 1.0 Litter wt at birth (kg) 2.5±0.33 3.38±0.06 2.0 1.9 Litter size at weaning (no) 1.3±0.26 1.42±0.03 0.8 0.7 Litter wt at weaning (kg) 11.1±1.0 11.9±0.36 10.0 9-11 Gestation length (days) 149.9±0.30 144.8±0.15 145-150 145-150
92 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
Table 6(c). Body parts measurements of indigenous goats (values are means in cms±standard errors)
Parameters Terai Khari Sinhal Chyangra Body length 60.6±0.87 63.1±0.39 68.7±0.44 62.3±0.36 Heart girth 65.2±0.44 65.5±0.37 77.8±0.44 71.3±0.37 Height at wither 57.9±0.32 55.9±0.28 59.2±1.06 62.4±0.23 Height at hip bone 60.8±0.73 51.5±1.76 M: 51.7±1.27 M: 60.8±0.78 F: 53.3±0.72 F: 58.7±0.85 Head length 18.3±0.25 15.5±0.56 16±0.4 15.1±0.6 Tail length 13.4±0.2 12.6±0.3 12.0±0.4 12.5±0.3 Horn length 8.37±0.2 11.5±1.3 15.3±0.84 18.2±0.7 Ear length 18.7±0.30 16.2±0.4 14.5±0.5 10.5±0.4 Neck length 25.7±0.45 20.5±0.56 20.7±0.76 20.2±0.7 Loin girth 74.1±0.65 72.8±0.53 73.5±1.19 70.3±0.43 Barrel girth 84.7±5.8 86.7±3.3 53.2±4.7 75.3±1.4 Fore legs above knee 19±0.52 17.8±0.47 18.7±0.49 16.1±0.51 Fore legs below knee 16.2±0.3 16±0.57 16.3±0.33 15.2±0.65 Rear legs above knee 23.2±0.61 22±0.58 23.2±0.65 18.3±0.54 Rear legs below knee 22.6±0.49 19.8±0.4 21.2±0.3 17.8±0.45 Adult body weight (kg) F: 23.3±0.1 F : 24.1±0.34 F: 34.8±0.12 F: 29.1±0.69 M : 30-35 M: 28-40 M: 28-42 M: 35-40
3.4 Sheep (Ovies aries) 3.4.1 Bhyanglung This is a high altitude sheep raised specially in the north facing region. This breed is believed to be the descendant of Tibetan sheep. Its body color is mostly white with variable head color from white, brown and black. Average adult body weight is 26kg. They constitute about 4% of total indigenous sheep population in Nepal. 3.4.2 Baruwal This is a mountainous breed. This breed is usually used as pack animal transporting goods from lower place to higher mountain. Each can carry at least 8kg weight. The body color is mostly white but the head color differs from white to black. Its average adult body weight is 28kg. Average body length is 70cm with heart girth averages 76cm. They constitute about 63% of total indigenous sheep population in Nepal. 3.4.3 Kage This is a hardy short tailed sheep generally raised by the people of mid hills region. Its coat color is white in the body except on head region. Head is mostly brown. Rams are horned but ewes are polled. Average body weight of adult ewes is 22kg. Adult male weighs around 32kg. Body length measures
93 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
62cm in both sexes. They constitute about 21% of total indigenous sheep population in Nepal. 3.4.4 Lampuchhre This is also a hardy long tailed breed specially reared in Terai belt by nomadic people. Its body color is mostly white with the variation in head color from white, brown and black. Adult average body weight is 31kg having the body length of 63cm. They constitute about 12% of total indigenous sheep population in Nepal. Ecological location, characterization and population status of indigenous sheep are presented in table 7(a), body measurement in table 7(b), body weight at different stages in table 7(c), reproductive characteristics in table 7(d) and production characteristics in table 7(e).
Table 7(a). Status of indigenous sheep breeds Breeds Location Characterization Status Bhyanglung High mountains Phen Population declining Baruwal High hills Phen Normal Kage Mid hills Phen Normal Lampuchhre Terai region Phen Risk Table 7(b). Body parts measurements of indigenous sheep (values are means in cms±standard errors)
Parameters Lampuchhre Kage Baruwal Bhyanglung Body length 63±0.45 62±0.52 70±0.54 65±0.54 Heart girth 71±0.45 65±0.52 76±0.56 76±0.46 Height at wither 61±0.35 60±0.52 65±0.55 60±0.54 Height at hip bone 62-66 55-56 66-68 66-69 Head length 20 16.5±2.67 19.5±1.5 18.1±2.01 Tail length M : 31.8±2.8 M : 25-35 M: 51.0±1.7 M: 38.5±1.9 F : Polled F : Polled F: 17.0±0.9, F: 33.5±1.0 polled Ear length 12±0.60 10.1±1.13 7.2±1.14 10.9±1.15 Neck length 24 18-20 22 24-27 Loin girth 67 76.8±7.08 78.8±4.91 76.4±4.2 Barrel girth 34 21 32 34 Fore legs above knee 29.3±1.2 27.2±5.0 25.7±2.4 22.7±2.2 Fore legs below knee 28.7±1.3 26.0±3.5 24.7±2.2 21.8±2.0 Rear legs above knee 25.0±1.8 19.4±4.02 27.1±2.9 23.4±1.9 Rear legs below knee 23.0±1.3 22.0±2.11 24.4±2.09 24.1±0.8 Adult body weight (wt) 30.3 (20-40) F:22, M:32 35 (30-45) 26 (25-30)
94 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
Table 7(c). Body weights of indigenous breeds of sheep (kg) Parameters Lampuchhre Kage Baruwal Bhyanglung Birth wt 1.8 1.5 2.4 2.2 Weaning wt (4 month) 7.5 6.9 8.1 7.4 6 month wt 9.5 8.8 10.1 9.0 9 month wt 13.1 12.2 13.7 12.2 12 month wt 16.7 15.6 17.3 15.4 2 year wt 32 (30-35) 25 (20-30) 35 (30-40) 30
Table 7(d). Reproductive characteristics of indigenous breeds of sheep Parameters Lampuchhre Kage Baruwal Bhyanglung Age at 1st services (months) 12-16 12-16 18-30 18-30 Age at 1stlambing (months) 18 18 24 24 Lambing intervals (months) 240-400 240-450 180-365 210-300 Litter size at birth (no) 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 Litter wt at birth (kg) 1.6-2.0 1.4-1.8 1.8-2.6 1.7-2.5 Gestation length (days) 145-150 145-150 145-150 145-150
Table 7(e). Production characteristics of indigenous breeds of sheep Parameters Lampuchhre Kage Baruwal Bhyanglung Lambing (%) 115.0 119.0 68.9 61.5 Lambing frequency 1-2 1-2 1 1 (per annum) Adult mortality (%) 15.0-20.0 15.0-20.0 25.6 35.5 Lamb mortality (%) 20.0-30.0 20.0-30.0 25.0-40.0 30.0-50-0 Wool production (kg) 0.3-0.5 0.32 0.9-1.2 0.8-1.0 Staple length (cm) 8.5 8-9 8.5-11 11-16 Fiber diameter (µm) 36-77.2 28-47 30 25-28 Kemp fiber 52.3-67.9 20-81 68 12-13 Wool use Rough mats Medium qualityRadi (felt), rough Carpets, covers and shawls covers rough garments
3.5 Poultry (Gallus gallus) 3.5.1 Sakini This is the very native breed of poultry in Nepal. Average egg production is around 80 per hen per year. The feather color varies from black to red, spotted black and white, red and white, red and black. They are reared mostly in backyard in the village.
95 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
3.5.2 Ghanti khuile Ghanti Khuile chicken is hardy and dual purpose breed suitable for both meat and eggs. They have ruffled feathers. They are found throughout the country in a smaller number. 3.5.3 Dumse ( Pwankh ulte) Dumse chicken is hardy and dual purpose breed suitable for both meat and eggs. They are found throughout the country in a smaller in number than Sakini. 3.6 Ducks, pigeons and quails There are some breeds of duck available in the country but characterization work has not been done yet. Pigeons are found in larger number but there is no data about the number and breed. Quails have recently been started to farm in some parts of the country but mostly they are found in wild forms in the country. Following tables show status of breeds (table 8a) and production performances (table 8 b) of indigenous chickens in Nepal.
Table 8(a). Status of indigenous poultry breeds Breeds Location Characterization Status Sakini Throughout country Phen Normal Dumse (Puwank ulte) Throughout country Phen Endanger Ghanti Khuile Throughout country Phen Endanger
Table 8(b). Some production performances of indigenous chicken (means ± standard errors)
Traits Sakini Ghanti Khuile Puwankh Ulte Body weight at 8 weeks (gm) 400-600 400-600 400-600 Age at 1st lay (days) 170±4.5 162±5.1 176±3.9 Body weight at 1st lay (kg) 1.04±0.02 1.14±0.06 1.0±0.04 Egg production/hen/year (no) 68±4.0 75±2.8 52±2.9 Egg weight (gm) 40-45 40-45 40-45 Adult weight (kg) Male: 2.4±0.05 Male: Male:1.9±0.03 (1.8-3.0) 2.2±0.04 (1.7-2.5) (1.8-2.8) Female:1.8±0.05 Female:1.6±0.03 (1.5-2.4) Female:1.6±0. 04 (1.5-2.2) (1.4-2.2) Hatchability (%) 85±3.5 86±4.0 80±4.1
96 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
3.7 Pig ( Sus scrofa) 3.7.1 Chwanche This is a poor man's pig raised by under privileged people of hilly region in scavenging situation. Its body color is completely black. Its barrel is dropping type. The average adult weight is 22.5kg for boar and 34.5kg for sow. 3.7.2 Hurrah This is poor man's pig raised by under privileged people of terai region in scavenging situation. Its body color is completely grayish black. Its barrel is dropping type. Average adult weight is 50kg for boar and 58kg for sow. 3.7.3 Bampudke Bampudke pigs are known as the smallest hog breed in the world and are very hardy animals. They are found in both domestic and wild form but now they are rarely found in domestic form and are about to extinct. Their avearge adult body weight is 20kg. 3.7.4 Pakhribas Black Pakhribas pigs are black in color and are found in eastern hilly region (subtropical to temperate areas). They have been developed by crossing Fayuen, Tamworth and Saddleback. They are prolific and have good mothering ability. They are popular breed in eastern hills of Nepal. Apart from these indigenous breeds, some of the important swine, e.g., White Yorkshire, Landrace, Hampshire, Saddleback, Fayuen, Tamworth and Duroc are introduced for breed improvement in Nepal. Table 9(a) shows the ecological locations; breed characterization and population status where as table 9(b) shows some of the production parameters of different indigenous breeds of pig in Nepal.
Table 9(a). Status of indigenous pig breeds Breeds Location Characterization Status Hurrah Mid hills Phen Population declining Chwanche Mid hills Phen Population declining Bampudke Eastern Terai Phen About to be extinct
Table 9(b). Some production parameters of indigenous pigs (values are means ± standard errors)
Parameters Hurrrah pigs Chwanche pigs Bampudke piges Age at 1stpuberty (months) 10.8±0.99 7.3±0.85 6.2±0.12 Age at 1stfarrowing(months) 14.0±0.96 10.7±0.80 11.5±0.23
97 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
Parameters Hurrrah pigs Chwanche pigs Bampudke piges Farrowing intervals(months) 5.57±0.57 7.4±0.6 4.6±0.28 Gestation length (days) 114.5±0.66 114.8±0.52 - Litter size at birth (no) 7.04±1.26 7.33±1.28 4.7±0.27 Litter size at weaning (no) 5.73±1.25 6.0±1.0 3.4±0.30 Birth weight (kg) 0.8±0.08 0.7±0.06 0.6±0.08
3.8 Horse (Equus caballus) 3.8.1 Jumli horse It is only one indigenous horse breed found in Nepal, especially in Jumla district of Nepal. Jumli horse is a small, solid animal with a wide forehead, almond shaped eyes, horizontal-set neck, straight back, extremely sloping croup, low set tail, small hooves and a dense, thick mane and tail. The Jumli horse is resilient, has endurance and is very well adapted to hilly and mountain regions. It is very sure-footed, even in snow. It has good health and is undemanding and easy to raise. The Jumli horse is a good pack animal, still used for transportation in difficult-to-reach areas. It has also been used for tourism to accompany trekkers. The mares are used to produce excellent mules. This all-purpose horse of Nepal became less useful due to access of transportation even in rural areas and mechanization and thus the population is in decline. The adult body sizes of Jumli horses ranges from 1.25m to 1.42m for mares and from 1.22m–1.44m for males. The summary of the identified indigenous breeds with regard to their availability as per the ecological regions of Nepal is shown in table 10 below.
Table 10. Breeds of indigenous domestic animals in Nepal
Sl.No. Ecological Native Breeds of farm animals Region Cattle Buffalo Goat Sheep Pig Horse Others 1 Trans Lulu, Yak - Chyangra Bhyanglung, - Jumli - Himalaya Baruwal (>2500masl) 2 High Yak, Kirko - Sinhal Dhorel, - Jumli - Himalaya Baruwal (2200-4000 masl) 3 Middle Pahadi, Lime, Khari Kage, Chwanche Jumli All three types Mountains Achhami, Gaddi Baruwal of local (800-2000 Khaila, Siri chickens masl) 4 Lower Hills/ Pahadi, Parkote Khari Kage Chwanche, - All three types Siwalik (300- Achhami Bampudke of local 1500 masl) chickens 5 Terai Region Terai cattle Terai Terai Lampuchhre Hurrah - Chicken, (<300 masl) buffalo Ducks, Pigeon
98 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
4. National Animal Breeding Policy and Strategy in Nepal Though we are working since last six decades in the areas of breed improvement, we do not have our own approved breeding policy. Whatever the breeding works are carried out they are based upon the draft of the breeding policy document prepared by the DLS in 2001. Realizing the utmost need of the policy, the DLS had prepared an animal breeding policy, 2010 and submitted to the then Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives for the approval but it has not yet been approved by the ministry. The major objectives of this proposed breeding policy are as follows: Identification, development and extension of suitable breeds of livestock and poultry for different geographical environment and resources; Productivity increment of livestock and poultry breeds through increase in genetic capabilities; Conservation, utilization and improvement of animal biodiversity; Development of livestock and poultry resource centers based upon the public private partnership; Conducting study, research and human resource development for the promotion of high value commodities like domesticated species, deer, Himalayan deer (kasturi), wild pig, forest fowl, etc;
As the productivity and reproductive performance of the indigenous breeds is poor, cross breeding (both artificial insemination and natural breeding) with high yielding breed is carried to increase production and productivity of local breeds to meet the national demand, import substitution and export promotion of milk, meat, egg and wool production. The Dairy Cattle Improvement Program (DCIP) and Buffalo Genetic Improvement Project (BGIP) have shown that there are ample possibilities for the increment of milk productivity from cross breeding program based upon the production performance recording scheme (PPRS) in Nepal. The proposed national animal breeding policy has given special emphasis to each species of animals which is briefly mentioned below: 4.1 Cattle Establishment of Suitable Breed of Jersey/ Holestein cow on the basis of suitability of Nepalese climate for milk production. Jersey breeds upto 75% genetic makeup by improving local breeds of cattle of mid hills; Development of local Lulu and Achhamee cows by applying proper selection methods; Improvement of breeds of Yak and Nak by appropriate selection methods;
99 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
Improvement of local breeds up to 75% genetic makeup of Holstein breeds in the place where intensive management (green grass or fodder, balanced diet, animal health facility and good management practice) has been started; On demand basis Hariyana breed bulls and semen should be utilized for milk and bullock production in Terai region; Production of Yak, Nak, Chauri and Jhoppa be started for better production of milk and as pack animals in high mountain regions; 4.2 Buffalo Development of Lime, Parkote and Gaddi buffaloes in hills through proper selection methods; Development of Murrah breeds of buffaloes (upto 100% blood level) for Terai, Shivalik range and low altitude of mid hills; 4.3 Goat Priority for the selective breeding of Chyangra and Sinhal breed for mountain regions and Khari breed for mid hills; Out-crossing of Barberi, Jamunapari and Boer breeds to significantly increase the body weight of nondescript goat especially in terai region; The blood level of 50% Boer gene in crossbreed goat has been recommended in the areas where there are proper arrangements of feeding, health care and management; To increase the productivity of Sinhal and Chyangra, the intensive selection and buck exchange program should be implemented to reduce the inbreeding problems; 4.4 Sheep Proper selection methods of Bhyaglung and Baruwal breeds for mountains region, Kage breeds for mid hills, Lampuchhre for Terai have been designed; Carpet wool type breeds, e.g., Border Leicester, Romney Marsh and Coopworth have been introduced to upgrade the Bhyanglung and Baruwal sheep in order to increase carpet wool production; 4.5 Pig For the suitable climatic condition of Nepal, development of exotic breeds like Landrace, Yorkshire and Duroc are recommended. Pure breeding of Landrace, Yorkshire, Hampshire and Duroc has been encouraged while crossbreeding and criss-crossing among these breeds will be practiced for commercial pork production;
100 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
Development of black colored breeds of pigs has been started at eastern hill region. Commercial farming of wild boar (Bandel) as per the national public demand; Selection and upgrading of indigenous pigs for value addition and productivity increment; 4.6 Poultry Suitable breeds for rural poultry for each eco zone will be developed.; New Hampshire, Black Australorp and Giriraja breed are used to improve egg and chicken production in rural areas; Synthetic breeds are used for commercial farming especially in urban and peri-urban areas; Ostrich, turkey, quail and peasant production shall have been prioritized; 4.7 Miscellaneous Periodic Improvement and change in the protocol and curriculum of research, study, teaching and training program of the universities and training centers; Local people are encouraged for the conservation and promotion of local breeds of livestock and poultry based upon the access and benefit sharing of AnGR; Encourage the local non-governmental organization (NGO)/ Community Based Organizations (CBOs) for conservation, improvement, promotion and utilization of local breeds; Public awareness program for the conservation, promotion and utilization of animal biodiversity. Such programs may be teaching, research and extension activities for establishing the public support; Development of eco-tourism and conservation of genetic resources through establishing ecological farm parks based upon the public private partnership (PPP) models;
5. Conservation, Improvement and Utilization of Animal Biodiversity In-situ and Ex-Situ conservation and promotion programs, though not sufficient, are going on from public side for Achhame, Lulu, Khaila and Yak in cattle; Lime, Parkote and Gaddi in buffalo; Hurra, Chwanche and Bampudke in pigs, Sakini chickens and Lampuchhre sheep breeds through people’s participation. The main programs are as follows: In-situ and Ex-situ conservation and improvement of endangered Bampudke pig through partnership program;
101 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
In-situ conservation and improvement of Chwanche and hurrah pigs through partnership and people’s participation; Identification, registration, conservation, improvement and utilization for local breed of animals; Encouraged local people, NGO and CBOs for the conservation and promotion of local breeds; Development of eco-tourism and conservation of genetic resources through establishing ecological farm parks; Public awareness program for the conservation, promotion and utilization of animal biodiversity. Such programs may include teaching, research and extension activities in concerned institutes;
6. Breeding Infrastructure/Institutes/Capacity In Nepal, the first artificial insemination activity was started six decades ago. Since then different activities have been conducted to develop breeding infrastructure in the country. In national livestock breeding center (NLBC) semen is collected from Jersey, HF, Murrah, Sannen, Boer, Jamunapari and processed, stored and distributed to various parts of the country. Recently, liquid nitrogen plant has been established in NLBC, Pokhara. Under NLBC, there are two breeding offices at Lahan and Banke to collect, receive and distribute semen, liquid nitrogen and other logistics to the eastern and western part of country, respectively. After the start of breed improvement program, commonly known as AI Mission program, in the FY 2011/012, the AI program has got momentum in the areas of livestock breed improvement. AI Mission program was basically proposed from the lesson learnt from the success of Dairy Cattle Improvement Program (a technical cooperation project, TCP from the Food and Agriculture Organization, Nepal) which was a two years program started in 2008. It was a joint collaboration program among the DLS/NARC and FAO implemented in 14 potential districts of Nepal. After the completion of DCIP in 2009, the Food Security Promotion Program, funded by USAID/Nepal, had given high priority for the continuation of DCIP along with Buffalo Genetic Improvement Program (BGIP) in 22 districts from the FY 2010/011. It was a three years program which was very successful to achieve the stipulated objectives. Community livestock development project (2005-2010) funded by Asian Development Bank (ADB) had also given high thrust for AI program that helped to increase the number and coverage of AI emphasizing on training and involvement of public and private sectors in AI programs of Nepal. At present, artificial insemination is carried out through 963 AI centers (public, private, community) by 1114 inseminators. In FY 2016/17, about 0.6 million cattle, buffalo and goat were inseminated which was less than 0.2
102 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal million before the start of AI mission. NLBC aims to inseminate additional 0.1million cattle and buffaloes every year for their genetic improvement. In DCIP, high yielding semen, embryos and buffalo bulls were imported from different countries and used in high producing dams. The bulls for the semen production in NLBC for AI purposes used to be selected born from the elite dams inseminated either by the semen of imported proven or test bulls. The biodiversity conservation activities are included in the regular program of different offices under DLS. The coordination and partnership programs among DLS, NARC and University are on-going for appropriate breed improvement in different geographical regions. No doubt that this is the high time for strengthening and capacity building of National Livestock Breeding Center (NLBC), Animal Breeding Division (ABD) of NARC and other livestock breeding offices for quality semen production, distribution, insemination and taking care of the inseminated animals. Accreditation of semen processing laboratories, establishment of bull mother farms, progeny testing, production of sexed semen and initiation of ET laboratory facilities are the high priority agendas of the nation for current period. 6.1 Institutions Involved in Animal Breeding Followings are the institutions and stakeholders involved, directly or indirectly, in animal breeding program in Nepal.
Government of Nepal
University/ Colleges Ministry of agriculture and livestock development
Department of livestock services Nepal agriculture research council
Directorate of livestock production Nepal Animal Science Animal Breeding Research Institute (NASRI) Division (ABD)
National Livestock Breeding Center Pokhara Livestock research stations
Livestock Breeding Livestock Breeding Office, Lahan Office, Banke
District Livestock Services Office (DLSO), Community Breeding Centers (CLBCs), and municipalities
103 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
7. Recommendations for Future Breeding Plan and Strategy Some of the main issues and strategies for the successful implementation of the national breeding plan are listed below: Conduct livestock census to collect the present population of indigenous livestock breeds; Identification, characterization, conservation and utilization of genetic capabilities of indigenous livestock and poultry breeds for sustainable use and development; Increase the productivity of indigenous breeds through suitable method of breeding and intensive local selection; Identify the suitable percentage of genetic materials of animals for different eco-zones to develop the envisaged phenotypic characters; Establishment of nucleus herds of different livestock species (both indigenous and improved) as a resource centers in all province; Establishment of bull mother farms, ET labs and sex semen production unit with the objectives of domestic use and export potentiality; Obtain patent right for Nepalese gene of livestock and poultry; Regulation and utilization of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and living modified organisms (LMOs); Harmonization of breeding strategies and programs at municipal, provincial and federal levels; Implementation of the global plan of action for the conservation, promotion and utilization of FAnGRs and effective public private partnership for breed improvement and extension programs; Development of grand-parent and parent stocks of chicken to substitute chick import and promote poultry export;
8. Conclusion The importance of indigenous animal genetic resources is increasing with the impacts of climate change experienced in various parts of the world. The ability of the indigenous breeds to well-thrive in harsh conditions and sustain on low nutrition and management regime provides opportunity for their improvement through genetic selection. The extinction of Siri cattle and situation of some of the other endangered breeds have alarmed conservation and immediate actions have to be taken by the livestock scientists, extension workers, policy makers and all stakeholders involved in this regards. Needs of present days to increase the production and productivity through cross breeding and conservation of indigenous breeds are contradictory but
104 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal both these issues are of utmost important to the nation. Improvement in the situation of food and nutritional security is only possible through qualitative and quantitative enhancement of production and productivity of livestock and poultry. For increasing the productivity, positive selection and appropriate breeding systems should be applied. In addition, for the suitable percentage of genetic materials in different eco-zones such livestock and poultry species should be bred with appropriate exotic genetic materials to enhance the productivity. The dairy cattle and buffalo genetic improvement programs launched by DLS in collaboration with NARC, FAO and USAID could be taken as a model program in these aspects. For achieving the tangible results on these issues, the proposed breeding policy should be revisited in line with the federal, provincial and local government systems of the nation and be approved as soon as possible for effective planning and implementation of the livestock development programs. For achieving the envisaged objectives, national, regional and international co-ordination and collaboration in the areas of teaching, research and extension are always anticipated.
9. References ABPSD. (2015). Statistical information on Nepalese agriculture. Agri-business promotion and statistical division. Ministry of Agriculture and Co-operatives (MOAC), Nepal. AICC. 2015. Agricultural diary. Agricultural information and communication centre. Kathmandu, Nepal. Amatya, N., Rasali, D.P., and Rana, R.S. (2000). Evaluation of phenotypic and production characteristics of indigenous buffalo types in the Western Hills of Nepal. Nepal agricultural research council, ARS, Lumle. Nepal. DLS. (2016). Livestock statistics of Nepal. Department of livestock services, Lalitpur, Nepal. DLS. (2017). Annual progress report. Department of livestock services. Ministry of livestock development. Lalitpur, Nepal. DLTE. (2018). Livestock Diary. Directorate of livestock training and extension. Lalitpur, Nepal. DoLP. (2017). Annual technical report. Directorate of livestock production. Lalitpur, Nepal. MoA, 1997. Farm animal genetic resources management and utilization. Policy and strategy. Ministry of agriculture, department of livestock services and animal breeding division of Nepal agriculture research council, Lalitpur, Nepal. NASA. (2015). Proceeding of the 7th national animal science convention. Nepal animal science association, Kathmandu, Nepal. NLBC. (2016). Annual technical report. National livestock breeding center, Pokhara, Nepal.
105 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Nepal
Paudel, L.N. (2006). Livestock revolution: Is this a debatable issue in relation to environmental conservation? GEED, MOAC, Kathmandu, Nepal. Paudel, L.N., ter Meulen, U., Wollny, C.B.A., Kandel Paudel, U., and Gauly, M. (2008). Indigenous buffalo farming and its improvement: A potential drive for rural development in Nepal. Tropentag. University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany. Paudel, L.N. and Thakur, U.C. (2015).Livestock genetic resources and their conservation, access and benefit sharing in Nepal (in Nepali language). South Asia Watch on Trade, Economics and Environment (SAWTEE), Kathmandu, Nepal. Pokharel, P., Kuwar, B.S., Neopane, S.P., and Shrestha, N.P. (2000). Identification, characterization and conservation strategy for Gaddi buffalo. Proceedings of the fourth global conference on conservation of domestic animal genetic resources (Kathmandu 17-21 August 1998). Nepal Agricultural Research Council/ Rare Breeds International, UK, pp. 77- 80. Poudel, R.P. (2000).Sheep production technology. Department of livestock services, Lalitpur, Nepal. Shaha, B.K.P., and Joshi, B.R. (2003). Role of indigenous animal genetic resources in poverty reduction in Nepal. Proceedings on 7th national conference of Nepal Veterinary Association, Kathmandu, Nepal. Shrestha, B.S. (2004).Breeding strategy for genetic improvement of indigenous buffaloes in Western Hills of Nepal. In: Singh, S.B., Rai, A.K., Sherchand, L., Devkota, N.R., Aryal, I.K., Paudel, S.P. and Tara, P.C. (Eds.), Proceedings of the 5th national animal science convention. 15-16 October 2003. NASA, Kathmandu, Nepal. Singh, S.B., and Chapagain, D.P. (1998).Livestock sector in the Agriculture Perspective Plan. In: Proceedings of the first national workshop on animal genetic resources conservation and genetic improvement of domestic animals in Nepal- April 11-13, 1994 (Ed. J.N.B. Shrestha). Nepal Agricultural Research Council, Khumaltar, Nepal. pp. 117-128. Wollny, C.B.A. (2003). The need to conserve farm animal genetic resources in Africa: Should policy makers be concerned? Ecological Economics, 45, 341- 351.
106 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Pakistan
Chapter 6 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Pakistan
Khalid Ashfaque Livestock Wing, Federal Ministry of National Food Security & Research Islamabad, Pakistan Email: [email protected]
1. Importance of Livestock Farming in National Economy and Livelihood Improvement Livestock is a renewable natural resource and one of the most vibrant and significantly serving sector in the agrarian economy of Pakistan. Next to agriculture animal husbandry is the most important economic activity in the rural areas. Livestock over the years has emerged as a largest sector in agriculture by contributing approximately 58.3% of the agriculture value added and 11.4% to the national GDP. It witnessed a growth of 3.43% compared to 3.36 % during corresponding period last year. It is a net source of foreign exchange earnings constituting about 8.1% share of the total exports. The role and significance of livestock in national economy may be realized from the fact that more than 8 million rural families are engaged in livestock production and deriving more than 35% of their income from it. This reflects its inherent potential of generating economic activity and employment besides supplementing high value animal origin protein for human consumption. Milk is the most important livestock product in the country its significance and contribution in the national economy can be gauged by the fact that, the annual value of milk exceeds the combined annual value of major cash crops like wheat, rice, maize and sugar cane. Livestock sector possesses enormous potential for growth and growth in agriculture is expected to be led by tangible contribution of livestock. This sector is now being identified and focused as a tool for economic growth, food security and poverty alleviation.
2. Livestock Population and Demography Pakistan is endowed with huge livestock inventory well adapted to hot, humid and harsh local environmental conditions. Based on the utility of livestock, domestic animals of Pakistan can be classified into “food animals” and “work animals”. Economic Survey of Pakistan 2016-17 indicates that, the national herd of food animals consists of 44.4 million cattle, 37.7 million
107 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Pakistan water buffaloes, 30.1 million sheep, 72.2 million goats and 1.1 million camels (dromedary) in addition to 961 million poultry. Some breeds of equine (Horse, Ass, Mules) and yak add to the magnitude of genetic diversity of livestock in Pakistan. Meat, milk and eggs are the major products of food animals. According to Economic Survey of Pakistan 2016-17, a total of 56 million tons of milk and 4.061 million tons meat (beef 2.085, mutton 0.701 & poultry meat 1.276 million tons) are annually produced in the country. Buffaloes contribute about 61% of milk (34.2 million tons) and cattle 36% (20 million tons). While rest of 3% milk production is contributed by minor dairy animals i.e. camels, sheep and goats. The cattle population recorded a growth rate of 3.7%, buffalo 3.0%, sheep 1% and goats 2.71% during 2016- 17 as compared to corresponding period last year. Following is the Province Wise livestock population:
Name of Province Cattle Sheep Goats Buffaloes Khyber Pakhtoon Khuwa 9.5 5.26 12.65 2.37 Punjab 19.2 7.30 26.78 22.92 Sindh 12.83 5.54 17.2 11.98 Baluchistan 2.87 12.0 15.57 0.43 Pakistan 44.4 30.1 72.2 37.7
(Million Heads)
3. Livestock Breeds and Breed Description at a Glance (Species wise) 3.1 Poultry 3.1.1 Commercial broiler breeds Meat chickens commonly called broilers are reared indoors under modern commercial farming methods. These broiler species attains slaughter weight of about 1.5-2 kg at 5-6 weeks of age having very good feed conversion ratio and average daily weight gain. Exotic blood lines of commercial broiler breeds like Lohman, Hubbard, Marshall etc are being kept and reared in Pakistan under commercial broiler farming system. 3.1.2Commercial layer breeds Commercial layers usually begin laying eggs at 16-20 weeks of age. Although production declines soon after from approximately 25 weeks of age and by 72 weeks of age, flocks are considered economically unviable and are culled. Usually commercial layer breeds produce over 300 eggs a year. Exotic blood lines of commercial layer breeds like Babcock, Novegin, Hyline etc are being reared in commercial layer farms of Pakistan.
108 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Pakistan
3.1.3 Breeder flocks Exotic blood lines of breeder stock are used in Pakistan for commercial production of breeding stocks. 3.1.4 Indigenous poultry 3.1.4.1 Layer breeds The backyard rural poultry which is scavenger by nature always remained a principal source of supply of protein in the form of eggs and meat to the rural inhabitants. Various rural chicken breeds are being kept and reared under backyard poultry farming system generally practiced in rural and peri urban areas of Pakistan. Common rural backyard chicken breeds of Pakistan include deshi (non-descript), Aseel, Fayoumi, Doki, Mini Red, Misri, Rhode Island Red, White leghorn, Black Australorp etc. The national estimated population of these indigenous rural backyard chicken breeds is around 87.16 million numbers. The Province wise distribution of these chicken breeds are Punjab 40.8 million (46.81%), KPK 22.274 million (25.56%), Sindh 19.414 million (22.27%) and Balochistan 4.672 million (5.36%). 3.2 Goat Breeds More than 30 types of goat breeds are found in Pakistan. Broadly these breeds can be classified into three categories on the basis of their utility. The utility of goat breeds in Pakistan is mainly for mutton, milk and lesser extent for hairs. Indigenous goat breeds of Pakistan includes Beetal, Dera Din Pannah, Jattan, Damani, Kamori, Barri, Beiari/ Chamber, Bugi Toori, Bujri, Kacchan, Gaddi, Jarakheil, Pateri, Tapri/ Lappi, Teddy, Tharki/ Tharri, Baltistani, Buchi, Chappar, Jattal, Kaghani, Kail, Kajli/ Pahari, Khurasani, Koh-I-Ghizer, Kooti, Kuri, Labri, Lehri, Lohri, Nachi/ Bikaneri, Pamiri, Potohari and Shurri. 3.3 Sheep Breeds Around 30 sheep breeds are found in Pakistan. These breeds show a higher diversity of purpose of rearing. Among these sheep breeds some are kept for dual purpose (mutton & wool production) while some breeds are reared for multiple purposes of mutton, milk and wool production. Broadly there are two types of native sheep breeds i.e. Fat tailed and Thin tailed. Indigenous sheep breeds of Pakistan includes Balkhi, Bibrik, Balochi, Baltistani, Buchi/ Bahawalpuri, Dumbi, Gojal, Cholistani, Harnai, Damani, Hastnagri, Hissardale, Koh-I-Ghizer, Kachhi/ Kutchhi, Michni, Kaghani, Pahari, Kail, Pak Awasi, Kajli, Pak Karakul, Kali, Rakhshani, Kooka, Salt Range/ Latti, Lohi, Tirahi/ Afridi, Poonchi, Waziri, Sipli and Thalli. 3.4 Cattle Breeds Around ten (10) zebu cattle breeds found in Pakistan, only two of them i.e. Red Sindhi and Sahiwal can be classified as dairy breeds. While Tharparkar
109 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Pakistan and Cholistani are dual purpose (milk & draught power) cattle breeds with considerable dairy potential. There are six draught type zebu cattle breeds which are well suited to work in the plains as well as in hilly areas. According to an estimate, around 65-70% of the cattle population is non- descript type. There is no specific beef cattle breed as such in Pakistan. Efforts have been made and are being made to produce a strain of beef cattle by crossing Bhagnari, Sahiwal and Tharparkar breeds of cattle with exotic beef breeds like Australian Draught Master and Charolais. The indigenous zebu cattle breeds of Pakistan include Sahiwal, Red Sindhi, Cholistani, Tharparkar/ Thari, Bhagnari, Dajal, Kankrej, Dhanni, Lohani and Rohjan. Crossbreds of Holstein Friesian and Jersey with indigenous non-descript cattle are also exists in the country. 3.5 Buffalo Breeds Domestic buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) commonly known as water buffalo is essentially of two types; river type noted for milk production and the swamp type mostly found in Southeast Asia. Buffalo is found in more than 50 countries of the world, varying in ecology, climate, topography as well as socio-economic conditions. It thrives in tropical conditions of India Pakistan as well as in the temperate climate of Italy. Pakistan is the 2nd largest country of the world after India in having dairy type buffalo. Buffalo has been an integral part of animal agriculture in this region for over 5000 years producing milk, meat, draft power and hides. Buffaloes are becoming economical and thus popular species with farmers in Asia where around 97% of the world’s buffaloes are found. Nature has blessed Pakistan with world’s best two dairy type sub tropical water buffalo breeds having considerable milk production potential with average fat %age ranges from 6-8%. These buffalo breeds have the potential to produce more than 2500 litres of milk per lactation period. The indigenous dairy type buffalo breeds of Pakistan include Nili Ravi, Kundi and Azi Khel. 3.6 Yak Yak is an animal of Central Asian origin found in Russian and Chinese Turkistan, inner and outer Mangolia, Tibet, Laddakh and northern parts mainly Gilgit Baltistan of Pakistan. Yak is considered as a rear natural resource having comparative advantage for raising socio-economic condition of poor and remote mountain dwellers in supplying the key food items i.e. milk and meat. The total estimated population of yak species in Gilgit Baltistan is around 33 thousand. Yaks have rugged appearance, short limbs, compact and heavy body, short and light horns, small udder with undeveloped mammary veins and long hairs. The average daily milk production is about 1.5-2.5kg per milking time with average 7.3% milk fat. The lactation period is about 90-120 days. Yak shows late puberty and breeding begins in male after 3 years of age while females start breeding
110 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Pakistan after 4 years of age. Its meat is of marvelous appearance with red color and good tenderness quality. Its hairs are used for making carpets, ropes etc and average annual hair production is around 5 kg. In northern areas of Gilgit Baltistan, yak has been crossed with cow and six successive crosses namely Zomo, Garmo, Girmo, Bremo, Hlokmo and Yakmo have been produced. Males of first five crosses are infertile. In order to exploit the potential of this species, a research project on yak biodiversity and yak farming management has been initiated in Gilgit Baltistan. Said project is jointly sponsored by Lanzhou University of China and the International Center for Integrated Mountain Development.
4. Productivity of Indigenous Animal Resources 4.1 Indigenous poultry 4.1.1 Layer breeds Following layer breeds are generally kept and reared under rural backyard poultry farming system: 4.1.2 Deshi Deshi is a non-descript native chicken breed having slow growth rate, average weight of adult male is 1.4 kg & female 1.32 kg with poor feed conversion efficiency and less egg production. Deshi breed produces an average of 119 eggs per laying period with an average egg weight of 45.4 gm. 4.1.2.1 Aseel Aseel is the crossbred of White Cornish and Plymouth Rock bred for good meat producing qualities having long and strong legs, short and broad breast with straight back. These are expensive birds mostly used in cock fighting. An average egg production is around 40-60 eggs per year. This native breed has five varieties i.e. Lakha, Mushki, Mianwali, Sindhi and Peshawari. Research work is being carried out to tap its genetic potential of meat production. 4.1.2.2 Fayoumi This breed of chicken originates in Egypt, average weight of adult male is 2 kg and female 1.6 kg. Fayoumi hens are good layers and produce around 180 small off white colored eggs in one laying period, having scavenging ability, good livability and adaptability. This is a hardy type breed and particularly well suited to hot climates. 4.1.2.3 Rhode Island Red (RIR) The Rhode Island Red is an exotic American breed of domestic chicken. It was formerly a dual purpose breed raised both for meat and eggs. Modern strains have been bred for their egg laying abilities. Average weight of adult
111 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Pakistan male is about 3.5kg and female 2.5kg. RIR produces an average of 280 brown colored eggs in one laying period with an average egg weight of 50.8 gm. 4.1.2.4 White Leghorn This breed of chicken originates in Italy and is commonly used as layer chickens in many countries of the world. The average weight of adult male is about 2.5kg and female 2kg. Leghorns are good layers of white eggs laying an average of around 230 per year. This breed is very hardy and lays very nice white large eggs. 4.2 Goat breeds Following are the various production traits of indigenous goat breeds of Pakistan:
Production Traits Ranges From Average birth weight 1.52 to 3.65 kg Average weight gain per day 0.062 to 0.72 kg Average adult weight 25 to 78 kg Average milk production per day 0.7 to 3.5 litres Average carcass yield 49 to 60 % Average hair production per annum 0.28 o 1.4 kg
4.3 Sheep breeds Following are the various production traits of indigenous sheep breeds of Pakistan: Production Traits Ranges From Average birth weight 3.1 to 4.1 kg Average weight gain per day 0.1 to 0.2 kg Average adult weight 29 to 80 kg Average milk production per day 0.4 to 1.3 litres Average carcass yield 46 to 55 % Average fleece production per annum 3.1 to 5.6 kg 4.4 Cattle breeds Breeds Production Traits Sahiwal Cattle Dairy breed having 1500-2200 litres milk in 285 days, calving interval 471 days, dry period 180 days. Red Sindhi Cattle Dairy breed having 1500-2000 litres milk in 285 days, calving interval 442 days, dry period 191 days.
112 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Pakistan
Breeds Production Traits Cholistani cattle Dual purpose having breed1400-1800 litres milk in 285 days, calving interval 490 days, dry period 185 days. Tharparker cattle Dual purpose breed having 1000-1400 litres milk in 285 days, calving interval 552 days, dry period 315 days. Crossbred cattle (H.F/ Crossbred cattle having around 2800-3200 litres milk in Jersey X Non- 285 days of lactation period. These crossbred cattle have Descript) reduced calving interval and dry period as compared to indigenous cattle breeds. Bhagnari cattle Heavy draught purpose breed. Dajal cattle Heavy draught purpose breed. Kankrej cattle Heavy draught purpose breed Dhanni cattle Medium draught purpose breed. Lohani cattle Light draught purpose breed. Rohjan cattle Light draught purpose breed.
4.5 Buffalo breeds Breeds Production Traits
Nili Ravi Buffalo Dairy buffalo breed having 1800-2400 litres milk production in 285 days of lactation period with average 7 % milk fat, calving interval 504 days, dry period 186 days. The average adult male weighs about 783kg and adult female weighs about 656kg. Kundi Buffalo Dairy buffalo breed having 1600-2200 litres milk production in 285 days of lactation period with average 7% milk fat, calving interval 490 days, dry Period 180 days. Kundi buffaloes are smaller than Nili Ravi with an average live weight of 320-450kg. Azi Khel Buffalo Dairy buffalo breed found in Swat valley of northern areas of Pakistan having reddish brown color. The estimated population of this breed is about 20-30 thousand heads. Female buffalo produces 1600- 1800 litres milk production in a lactation of 300 days. Age at 1st calving is around 45 months with calving interval of around 18 months.
5. National Animal Breeding Policy and Strategy (Species Wise) 5.1 Poultry Poultry development and breeding policy envisions sustainable supply of wholesome poultry meat, eggs and value added products to the domestic and international markets and increasing the current annual growth rate of poultry
113 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Pakistan sector from 8-10 % to 15 % by the year 2025. The strategy revolves around disease control and genetic improvement of poultry; hi-tech poultry production in intensive poultry production system; processing and value addition and improving level of bio-security. For effective implementation of this strategy, promotion and propagation of more productive poultry breeds (eggs & meat), focused interventions targeting to promoting intensive poultry production; improving rural and commercial poultry production system, improving poultry production practices and capacity building of public sector have been identified. Poultry Research Institute under the Livestock & Dairy Development Department, Government of Punjab is developing rural poultry by introducing better productive rural breeds. Various rural poultry breeds like Fayoumi, Rhode Island Red, Black Australorp, deshi, naked neck, Aseel and crosses of different breeds were developed and propagated in the field. Poultry Research Institutes in Pakistan under the Provincial governments are also focusing on cross breeding which has been a major tool for the development of today’s commercial breeds of chickens and could likewise is used to improve the rural chicken. In poultry, reciprocal effects in crosses have been detected for sexual maturity, egg production, egg quality and viability traits. 5.2 Sheep & Goats Breeding policy for sheep and goats will aim to improve growth, body weight, reproductive efficiency, meat and wool quality and quantity and to reduce mortality. An area specific approach would be adopted to improve quality and quantity of coarse wool and fine wool. Main focus will be to produce and distribute good quality rams and bucks of quality indigenous breeds which can thrive in different agro-climatic conditions. Production of superior quality rams and bucks of indigenous sheep and goat breeds is the prime objective of sustainable breeding policy. Quality of ram and buck to transmit desired genes for improved productivity is of key importance. Most of the efforts done so far to address superior male production have been limited to cattle and buffaloes. The government is supporting efforts both in public and private sector to ensure availability of superior rams and bucks to the sheep and goat farmers and breeders so that a sustained genetic improvement in these indigenous genetic resources could be achieved. Besides this, Sheep & Goat Research and Experiment Stations/ Farms are also working on breed conservation, propagation, improved and enhanced meat, milk and wool production, increasing twining percentage in ewes and does. 5.3 Cattle National Livestock Breeding Policy for cattle envisages that, pure bred average specimens of Sahiwal and Red Sindhi cattle should be improved by intensive selection, Production recording needs to be started for each breed
114 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Pakistan and Pedigree records should be maintained and milk production of cows recorded at appropriate intervals, Bulls with superior transmitting abilities should be identified by progeny tests on contemporary herd basis at public/ private farms, Progeny testing should form a part of production recording system and proven sires should be extensively used for Artificial Insemination, Selection of cows for future breeding should be based on characters of economic importance such as milk production, early maturity and regularity in breeding, Breeding operations should be concentrated in different breeds home tracts from where it should gradually extend to adjoining areas and along with selective breeding arrangements should be made for dissemination of information on optimal husbandry practices for the exploitation of the genetic potential. 5.4 Buffalo The indigenous buffaloes are the best dairy type breed of the world. Thus, there is no question of using exotic semen of superior genetic merit and all programs must be based on selective breeding, Improvement in milk production through genetic improvement can be obtained only by an effective progeny testing schemes requiring recording of production of herd mates, frozen semen storage and artificial insemination are essential components of progeny testing as the semen will have to be collected and stored earlier in life of bull before information of his daughters is available and progeny testing programs for selection of bulls should be carried on large public and private farms to be obtained higher genetic progress than is possible with small herds. Standards and procedures for breeding animals of Punjab Livestock Breeding Act, 2014 envisages that, performance recording is basic requirement for any progeny testing program. It includes economically and aesthetically important qualities. Progeny testing is utilized to select bulls for genetically controlled traits/ qualities of economic importance (such as milk production) for which they possess genes but they do not exhibit those traits. Successes in A.I and embryo transfer technologies in dairy cattle and buffaloes necessitate that bulls with better genetic potential be disseminated widely. To judge that a bull has better potential for traits which are not expressed in the males, female relatives are evaluated. When a bull calf is born, information on its mother and other ancestors (e.g. grandmother) and even sisters (if these had performance record) may be utilized for such a judgment. Such a decision making is called a pedigree or family selection. The overall national livestock development strategy revolves to foster private sector led development with public sector providing enabling environment through effective policy interventions and play capacity building role to improve livestock husbandry practices. The strategy revolves around improving per unit animal productivity and moving from subsistence to market oriented and then commercial livestock farming in the country to
115 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Pakistan meet domestic demand, food security needs and surplus for export. The goal is to utilize potential of livestock sector and use it as engine for economic growth and food security for the country. As a policy intervention, Government allowed import of high yielding dairy and beef cattle and their genetic material i.e. semen and embryos for cross breeding with non-descript genetically low producing indigenous cattle in order to enhance their production potential. National Livestock Breeding Policy recommends import of two world’s renowned Bos taurus dairy cattle of Holstein Friesian and Jersey breeds and their semen/ embryos. As per said policy multiplicity of dairy breeds is avoided and import is restricted to aforesaid two breeds of world proven dairy cattle.
6. Breeding Infrastructure/ Institutes/ Capacity All tiers of government i.e. federal, provincial and local governments are involved in development of livestock breeding activities in Pakistan. The principal role of federal government is development of national policies while provincial governments are the principal actors in development of livestock. There are 45 livestock farms/ livestock experiment stations being maintained by the livestock departments in the provincial governments. These farms are developed to improve and conserve specific indigenous livestock breeds and also to provide capacity building to veterinarians, para veterinarians and farmers. These institutions are used for superior male production for use in genetic improvement programs. All four provincial livestock departments have directorates of breed improvement with good infrastructure of AI Centers at district and tehsil level having basic facilities of breeding activities with the mandate of livestock breed improvement and its conservation. At present, artificial insemination is being provided to around 10-15% of the breedable cattle and buffaloes. Local semen production units are providing germplasm of exotic and indigenous Zebu cattle and buffalo breeds to the farmers at subsidized rates. The government is also supporting the private sector to start AI activities in areas of livestock concentration by providing support for purchase of equipment and supply of good quality bulls for semen production. In areas where AI is not commercially viable, government is expanding its network of AI for the improvement and enhancement of livestock productivity. Now Artificial Insemination is getting popularity among the livestock farmers and breeders. semen production units (SPU) has mainly been established in the public sector so far. But now few SPUs in the private sector are also coming up. On an average, around 0.7-0.8 million doses of frozen semen and embryos mainly of exotic dairy cattle of Holstein Friesian and Jersey breeds are being imported by private sector. Frozen beef semen of exotic cattle breeds like Brahman, Angus, Charolais, Simmental are also being imported for insemination in our non-descript cattle.
116 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Pakistan
7. Recommendations for Future Breeding Plan and Strategy Genetic up gradation of non-descript local livestock breeds through cross breeding and Artificial Insemination of genetically high yielding exotic blood lines; Research work/ programs should be initiated to tap and enhance the production potential of indigenous established breeds of livestock having low inherent per unit productivity. Since these species are well adapted to various diseases/ ticks and local agro climatic conditions. Thus, there is a dire need to focus these animal genetic resources. Animal Research Institutions/ Departments/ Organizations and Veterinary Academia must play their effective role for genetic up gradation of indigenous livestock species; Nucleus herds comprising of elite animals should be formed at national level particularly for indigenous established dairy cattle and buffalo breeds; Gene banks should be established in the country for storage of germplasm of superior males having good pedigree record. These gene banks can also provide superior germplasm to other SAARC Member States upon request; Techniques like pedigree selection, use of artificial insemination for distribution of superior quality semen and production of progeny tested proven bulls should be employed for genetic up gradation of indigenous livestock breeds; Herd Book Registration System should be introduced and enforced for registration of elite animals at national level; Indigenous established breeds of livestock must be conserved since their existence is being threatened due to massive and indiscriminate misuse of exotic germplasm. Immediate attention and timely remedial measures are required to check this malpractice. If this trend is not checked we may end up with loss of these animal genetic resources;
8. Conclusion All eight SAARC Member States have genetically low producing animals with delayed puberty and prolonged calving intervals such animal genetics are not sufficiently capable to foster the needs of food security of the dwellers of SAARC countries where poverty and food insecurity are the grave concern. Human population of SAARC countries is increasing rapidly while available food resources are insufficient and depleting as well. This complex situation is inviting our immediate attention that how to tackle the emerging challenge of food scarcity and insecurity in the region. Lot of serious efforts has to be done on this front. The situation therefore calls for
117 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Pakistan evolving short and long term effective and doable policies and strategies for improvement in production performance of low yielding livestock breeds indigenous to the Member States. It is worth mentioning that, this regional expert consultation meeting would be an important and timely step in the right direction. Definitely, it would be a challenge for veterinary scientists/ geneticists, veterinary experts and policy makers gathered over here to devise an effective and result oriented livestock breeding policies and strategies for the genetic uplift and improvement of neglected indigenous low producing animal resources of the region.
9. References Economic Survey of Pakistan. (2016-17). Finance Division, Economic Advisor’s Wing, Government of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Islamabad. Agriculture Statistics of Pakistan. (2016-17). Economic Wing, Ministry of National Food Security & Research, Government of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Islamabad. National Livestock Breeding Policy. (1981). Livestock Division, Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Government of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Islamabad. Punjab Livestock Breeding Act.(2014). Livestock and Dairy Development Authority, Livestock & Dairy Development Department, Government of Punjab, Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Lahore. The Policy Papers. (2013-14). Livestock & Dairy development Department, Government of Punjab, Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Lahore. Khan, M.A., and Nawaz, M.(2009). Versatility and Production Characteristics of Buffalo, Buffalo the Animal of Future, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan, 8-13, 18, 19, 32. Isani, G.B., Baloch , M.N. (1996). Breeds of domestic sheep and goats. Sheep and Goat Breeds of Pakistan. Department of Livestock Management, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Pakistan, 15-94. Ali, H. (2002). Potential & Scope of Yak Breeding in Pakistan. D-8 Seminar on Conservation of Farm Animal Genetic Resources, Islamabad, Pakistan, 20-21.
118 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka
Chapter 7 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka
P. G. Seneviratne Department of Animal Production and Health, Kandy, Sri Lanka Email: [email protected]
1. Importance of Animal Farming in National Economy and Livelihood improvement Sri Lanka, is an island in the Indian Ocean, is located to the south of the Indian subcontinent. It lies between 5055' and 9055' north of the equator and between the eastern longitudes 79042' and 81052'. It is separated from India by the 50km wide Palk Strait, although there is a series of stepping-stone coral islets known as Adam's Bridge that almost form a land bridge between the two countries. The total land area of Sri Lanka is 65,610 sq. km, and 30% of this land i.e. 2 million hectares are under Agriculture. Nearly 75% of the agricultural land is under small holdings and over 90% of them are having less than 2 ha of land. The number of small holdings is estimated to be 1.8 million. Approximately one third of the small holdings have a mixture of crop and livestock. The farm holding areas with livestock estimated to be 0.56 million ha, of which 99% are smallholdings. The total number of livestock farmers is 700,000. Out of total livestock farmers 30-60% farmer’s gross income is coming from livestock activities. The agricultural sector contributes around l3% to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP). It provides employment to about 33% of the labour force, surpassing the contribution of any other major sector. The contribution of agriculture, forestry and fisheries sectors to national GDP is around 7.1% while livestock sub-sector contributes around 0.6% to the national GDP (Abeygunawardana, 1997) Livestock play an important role in Sri Lankan Agriculture. Livestock provide high quality protein sources such as milk, meat and eggs. Besides that, cattle and buffalo provide draught power in agricultural operations and transport. Further, these animas provide hides, skins and manure. Livestock also serve as a living bank mitigating the risks associated with loss of income from crop production and providing a financial reserve during periods of economic hardships.
119 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka
2. Animal Population and Demography Sri Lanka is home of 1.3 million cattle, 0.43 million buffalo, 0.47 million goat, 0.12 million swine and 36.7 million poultry populations (DAPH, 2016).
Figure 1. Distribution of cattle populations
Figure 2. Distribution of buffalo populations
120 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka
Figure 3. Distribution of goat population
Figure 4. Distribution of pig population
121 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka
Figure 5. Distribution of poultry populations (Pictures curtsey of Chandrasiri A.D.N. (The State of Animal Genetic Resources in Sri Lanka)
3. Animal Breeds and Breed Description 3.1 Cattle Cattle breeds are categorize as Indian breeds and their crosses, European breeds and their crosses and local cattle and their existence as follows (DAPH Annual Report, 2016). Indian breeds and their crosses-25% European breeds and their crosses-37% Local cattle-38%
Dairy cows (European, Indian and their crosses) are highly distributed in the central province, part of Uva province, which is known as the dairy area of the country, while other provinces are having in small numbers. Indigenous cattle are highly distributed in the low country dry zone. Sri Lankan indigenous cattle also known as “Batu Haraka” (Bos Indicus var Ceylonicus) are varied with coat colour, either mono colour (50.6%), or mixed colour (49.4%) (Abeywansa, 1995). Historical evidence reveals that Sri Lankans have been started rearing of meat cattle since 543BC, with the
122 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka establishment of the first kingdom by Indo Aryans. These cattle have relation to the Indo-Pakistani zebu cattle and have been described as the archaic cattle and the ancestors of the present-day "Lankan cattle" of Sri Lanka (Silva, 2008).
Figure 6. Indigenous cattle of Sri Lanka Figure 7. White (Gray) cattle
3.2 Buffalo Buffalo population in Sri Lanka is 0.43 million (DAPH, 2016). Breeds of buffalos available in Sri Lanka includes, Murrah, Nili Ravi, Surti and indigenous buffaloes. Breed wise population statistics are not available, however, indigenous buffaloes are scattered in low country dry zone area. Local buffalo had been categorized as swamp type phenotypically and found to be having karyotype of river buffalo possessing 50 chromosomes. It never results any complication when cross with improved riverine buffaloes such as Murrah and Nili Ravi (Siriwardana, 2000).
Figure 8. Domestic water buffalo Figure 9. Indigenous pig
3.3 Pig The native pig is small in size. The average height at shoulders of adult males and females is 60.2 and 49.3cm respectively (Table 1). The striking features of the native breed are its tapering face, long snout and compact body. Length of head accounts for 25-30 percent of total body length, whereas the corresponding value for exotic pigs is only 10-12 percent (Sahaayaruban et
123 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka al., 1983). The legs are short and this results in the abdomen and udder being dragged almost on the ground in pregnant animals. The ears are short, erect and pointed backwards. The predominant colour is black. Dark grey, tan and mixtures of tan with grey or black are also seen. The native boar is characterized by its coarser hair with an almost mane-like crest along the back and a narrower body. The tusks are well developed and project from the mouth. 3.4 Goats Indigenous goat is a small body sized animal with a varied coat colour. Their morphological, physiological and production parameters have studied (Chandrasiri, 2002). The purpose of rearing is meat, milk, hides and fertilizer production.
Figure 10. Indigenous goat Figure 11. Indigenous chicken
3.5 Chicken The jungle fowl is the native poultry breed and is an endangered breed. Jungle fowl is the national bird of Sri Lanka.Naked neck breed of chicken is found in eastern part of Sri Lanka while there is a considerable number of scavenging village chicken all over the island. 3.6 Sheep Jaffna local sheep is found only in some parts of the northern province of Sri Lanka. These animals are meant only for meat. Nomadic type management is practiced by the farmers while the owners are paid by the land loads for keeping the animals in their fields and fertilized them.
4. Productivity of Indigenous Animal Resources Livestock sector development in the 2016 was 6.3% and its contribution to the national GDP was 0.6%. When compare the livestock population changes in 2015 & 2016, Cattle population has increased by 11%, Buffalo population has increased by 12%, Goat population increased by 31%, swine population increased by 32%, and 5.6% increase in poultry population. National artificial insemination (AI) program is launched by the Department of Animal Production and Health (DAPH) with 434 number of government
124 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka and 166 number of private technicians and total number of inseminations performed in 2017 was 256,043. This covers the 30% of the national herd. Genetic improvement of the balance 70% of the national herd is a challenge and attempt has been taken to introduce certified bulls for natural breeding. For this purpose, it is required approximately 4500 bulls annually, which is very hard to find locally.
5. National Breeding Policy and strategy 5.1 Cattle Upcountry Wet Zone Breeding objective- to produce a dairy type animal Breeding policy - Grading up using temperate breeds of cattle Breeding strategy- Breeding strategy is defined separately for different farming systems found in the area
Farming system/ Recommended Target Remarks Breeding strategy breeds for lactation upgrading (kg/lactation)
A) Intensive system Friesian and Continuous grading up of >4500 Ayrshire are known to existing cattle using temperate Friesian >4000 breeds of cattle viz. use a give more Ayrshire >3500 milk temperate breed to produce F1 generation, which will have Jersey whereas the 50% temperate blood level. Jerseys have a higher fat F1 is back crossed (same content temperate breed) to produce B1 which will have 75% temperate blood level.
B1 is again back crossed (to same temperate breed) to produce B2 which will have 87.5% temperate blood. This process will be continued to raise the temperate blood level B) Semi-intensive system Friesian >3500 Grading up of existing cattle Ayrshire >3250 Same as using temperate breeds of Jersey >3000 above cattle
125 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka
Up Country Intermediate Zone Breeding objective- to produce a dairy type animal Breeding policy - grading up using temperate breeds of cattle Breeding strategy- breeding strategy is defined separately for different farming systems found in the area. Prominent extensive system is not found in this area
Farming system/ Recommended Target Remarks Breeding strategy breeds for lactation upgrading
A) Intensive system Friesian >4500 Friesian and Grading up of existing Ayrshire >4000 Ayrshire are known to give more milk cattle using temperate Jersey >3500 breeds of cattle whereas the Jerseys have a higher fat content B) Semi-intensive Friesian >3250 Jersey breed can system Ayrshire >3000 tolerate tropical conditions better Grading up of existing Jersey >2750 cattle using temperate than Friesian and breeds of cattle Ayrshire
Mid Country Wet Zone Breeding objective- to produce a dairy type animal Breeding policy - grading up using temperate breeds of cattle Breeding strategy- breeding strategy is defined separately for different farming systems found in the area. Prominent extensive system is not found in the mid country wet zone
Farming system/ Recommended Target Remarks Breeding strategy breeds for lactation upgrading A) Intensive system Friesian >3500 Best growth rate is Continuous grading Ayrshire >3250 obtained with Friesian while Jersey have a up of existing cattle Jersey >3000 using temperate higher fat content in breeds of cattle milk
126 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka
B) Semi-intensive Jersey >2500 Jersey breed can system tolerate tropical conditions better than Continuous grading up using Jersey breed Friesian and Ayrshire
Grading up of using Friesian or Ayrshire Friesian >2750 Ayrshire breed is to 75% blood level. Ayrshire preferred over Friesian The breeding bulls due to lower cost of with 75% blood level management will be produced in breeder farms -Use Friesian and Ayrshire breeds to produce F1, F1 is back crossed to produce B1, which will have 75% level of temperate blood. These bulls will be used for upgrading.
Mid Country Intermediate Zone Breeding objective- to produce a dairy type animal Breeding policy - grading up using temperate breeds of cattle Breeding strategy- breeding strategy is defined separately for different farming systems found in the area Farming Recommended Target Remarks system/Breeding breeds for lactation strategy upgrading (kg/lactation) A) Intensive system Friesian >3500 Higher milk Continuous grading up Ayrshire >3000 production is of existing cattle using Jersey >3000 obtained with the temperate breeds of Friesian and Ayrshire cattle while Jerseys have a higher fat content in milk
127 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka
B) Semi-intensive Friesian Australian Friesian system Jersey >2000 Sahiwal (AFS) has Grading up using Ayrshire been bred for milk and it could be used temperate breeds to AFS 50% blood level. The straightaway for
breeding bulls with upgrading purpose. 50% blood level will Friesian, Ayrshire be produced in breeder and Jersey crosses farms. have shown Use temperate breeds promising results to produce F1, which under semi-intensive will have 50% system. temperate blood level. These bulls will be used in upgrading the existing herds. C) Extensive system Jersey >1500 Jersey x Sahiwal Grading up of existing Sahiwal >1250 crosses can produce cattle using temperate x higher milk yield zebu 50% crossbred under tropical bulls or continuous weather conditions grading up using zebu breed
Low Country Wet Zone Breeding objective- to produce a dairy type animal Breeding policy-grading up using exotic breeds of cattle Breeding strategy-breeding strategy is defined separately for different farming systems found in the area. Farming system/ Recommended Target Remarks Breeding strategy breeds for lactation upgrading (kg/lactation) A) Intensive Friesian >3000 This recommendation is system Ayrshire >2750 for very high standards Continuous Jersey >2500 of management grading up of conditions. High milk existing cattle production is obtained using temperate with the Friesian and breeds of cattle Ayrshire breeds while Jersey breed has higher fat content in the milk.
128 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka
B) Semi- Temperate crosses intensive Jersey produce higher milk system Friesian >1500 yield under this climatic and management Grading up using Ayrshire temperate breeds conditions
to 50% blood level. C) Extensive Sahiwal is a tropical system Sahiwal >1250 dairy breed thriving well Continuous under this climatic and grading up of management condition. existing cattle using zebu breeds of cattle.
Low Country Intermediate Zone Breeding objective- to produce a dairy dominant dual type animal Breeding policy -grading up using exotic breeds of cattle Breeding strategy- breeding strategy is defined separately for different farming systems found in the area Farming Recommended Target Remarks System/breeding breeds for lactation strategy upgrading (kg/lactation) A) Intensive Friesian >3000 This recommendation is system Ayrshire >2750 for very high standards Continuous grading Jersey >2500 of management conditions. High milk up of existing cattle AFS >2500 using temperate production is obtained breeds of cattle with the Friesian and Ayrshire breeds while Jersey breed has higher fat content in the milk. B) Semi-intensive Ayrshire Temperate crosses system Jersey >1500 produce higher milk Grading up using AFS yield under this climatic and management temperate breeds to Sahiwal 50% blood level. conditions
The breeding bulls
with 50% blood level will be produced in breeder farms. Use temperate
129 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka
breeds to produce F1, which will have 50% temperate blood level. These bulls will be used in upgrading the existing herds. C) Extensive Sahiwal is a tropical system Sahiwal >1250 dairy breed thriving well Grading up of under this climatic and existing cattle using management condition. temperate x zebu 50% crossbred bulls or continuous grading up using a zebu breed.
Low Country Dry Zone Breeding objective- to produce a dairy dominant dual type animal Breeding policy - grading up using exotic breeds of cattle Breeding strategy- breeding strategy is defined separately for different farming systems found in the area. Farming system/ Recommended Target Remarks Breeding strategy breeds for lactation upgrading (kg/lactation) A) Intensive Ayrshire >1750 If the management system Jersey >1500 conditions are really Grading up of good the temperate existing cattle blood level could be using temperate raised up to 100% breed to 50% exotic blood level. B) Semi-intensive AFS >1750 Sahiwal is a tropical system Jersey >1500 dairy breed thriving Continuous grading Sahiwal >1250 well under this climatic and management up of existing cattle using a zebu breed conditions. Jersey
or grading up of crosses produce a higher existing cattle milk yield under using a temperate tropical weather breed to 50% blood conditions. AFS could level. be used straight away until the recommended quality F1 sires are made
130 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka
available locally. C) Extensive Sahiwal Sahiwal is a tropical System >1250 dairy breed thriving Grading up of well under this climatic existing cattle and management using temperate x condition. zebu 50% crossbred bulls or continuous grading up using a zebu breed.
5.2 Buffalo Whole Country Breeding objective- to produce a high yielding dairy or dairy dominant dual type buffalo Breeding policy-grading up of existing herds using exotic breeds of buffaloes Breeding strategy- breeding strategy is common for all the farming systems existing in the country Farming system/ Recommended Target Remarks Breeding strategy breeds for lactation upgrading (kg/lactation) Intensive /semi- Murrah >2800 If draught power is intensive or extensive Nili Ravi >2800 required pure or systems 50% cross bred Continuous grading Lanka Buffaloes up of existing buffalo could be using recommended maintained. exotic breed.
5.3 Goat Upcountry Wet Zone Breeding objective- to produce a dairy type goat Breeding policy - grading up of existing herds using exotic dairy breeds of goats
131 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka
Breeding strategy- breeding strategy is common for all farming systems Farming system/ Recommended Remarks Breeding strategy breeds for upgrading Intensive and semi-intensive Saanen Saanen is recommended systems for the climatic Continuous grading up of conditions prevailing in existing goats using the upcountry area. recommended breeds.
Up Country Intermediate Zone Breeding objective- to produce a dairy dominant dual type goat Breeding policy-grading up using exotic breeds of goats Breeding strategy- breeding strategy is common for all farming systems Farming system/ Recommended Remarks Breeding strategy breeds for upgrading Intensive and semi -intensive Saanen Saanen is a dairy breed systems Jamnapari whereas Jamnapari is Continuous grading up of existing considered as dual type goats using recommended breeds. breed.
Mid Country and Low Country Breeding objective- to produce a dairy dominant dual type goat Breeding policy - grading up using exotic breeds of goats Breeding strategy- breeding strategy will depend on the farming system Farming system/ Recommended Remarks Breeding strategy breeds for upgrading Intensive systems Saanen Saanen is a dairy Continuous grading up of existing Jamnapari breed whereas goats using recommended breeds. Jamnapari is considered as dual
type breed. Semi-intensive and extensive systems Jamnapari Continuous grading up of existing goats using recommended breeds.
132 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka
5.4 Sheep Whole Country Breeding objective- to produce a meat type sheep Breeding policy - grading up using exotic breeds Breeding strategy- breeding strategy is common for all farming systems Farming system/ Recommended Remarks Breeding strategy breeds for upgrading Intensive semi-intensive and Red Madras Bannur is the preferred extensive systems Bannur breed for meat production Continuous grading up of and Red Madras shows a existing sheep to exotic level. better adaptability to local conditions. Red Madras is the most available breed at the moment
5.5 Pig Whole Country Breeding objective- to produce a fast growing commercial pig Breeding policy-maintain the existing exotic breeds of pigs and to produce suitable commercial pig Breeding strategy- cross breeding (two way or three way) for commercial production Farming system/ Recommended Remarks Breeding strategy breeds for upgrading Intensive systems Landrace The two way commercial pig would To produce two-way large white be the cross between Landrace and or three way fattener Duroc Large White or vice-versa. These pigs. cross bred females are issued to the commercial farmers. Three way cross is produced by crossing the crossbred gilts (large White X Landrace or reciprocals) to Duroc as a terminal sire.
6. Breeding Infrastructure /Institute /Capacity National AI program is facilitated by the central government DAPH and implemented by the 09 provincial DAPH. There are 307 numbers of field veterinary surgeons offices under the purview of provincial DAPH and 600 AI technicians are attached to those offices who are responsible for implementation of the AI program.
133 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka
Other institutions involved with animal breeding activities are, Ministry of Rural Economy National Livestock Development Board Milco (Milk Industries of Lanka Company Limited) Mahaweli Livestock Enterprises Universities, NGOs, Private sector organizations
7. Recommendation for Future Breeding Plan and Strategy More AI technicians need to be trained and deployed for further expansion of the AI service; Current progeny testing program and the PPRS (Parentage Performance Recording Scheme) has to be further expanded to increase the number of recorded animals; User friendly software development is needed for proper monitoring of the AI program in such a way to analyze the age at puberty, age at first conception, and calving to conception interval and calving interval in the AI applied population; Breeding policy guidelines needed to be updated by assembling the breeding committee at recommended intervals; Conservation program applied on white cattle has to be expanded to other food producing indigenous animal species; Establishment of embryo transfer facility for conservation programs of indigenous animals;
8. Conclusion Livestock sector of Sri Lanka is fast growing due to the involvement of the private sector for milk production through establishment of medium and large scale commercial dairy farms. This development is true for other livestock sectors through public-private partnership. High producing commercial cattle herds of Bos taurus type breeds are more popularizing with application of modern technologies to mitigate the climatic effect. Propagation of the commercial breeds of livestock will results in the inattention of the indigenous breeds as they are low producers. However, these indigenous breeds are having important traits such as high temperature/high humidity tolerance, internal and external parasite resistance, fast wound healing, could be thrived on poor quality and quantity of locally available roughages and survive with little amount of water.
134 Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies in Sri Lanka
World is experiencing climatic changes with the effect of global warming and commercial dairying will not be economical in the future due to high investment on environmental control to mitigate the temperature and humidity changes. Important traits of the indigenous animals as indicated above can incorporate into commercial herds and have great value under the explained circumstances and in-situ or ex-situ conservation of live animals and/or germplasm should be seriously considered.
9. References Abeygunawardana, H., Ratnayake, D., and Jayathilaka, W.M.A.P. (1997). Characteristics of cattle farming systems in Sri Lanka. Journal of the National Science Foundation of the Sri Lanka, 25(1), 25-28. Abaywansa, W.D., and Abeygunawardena, H.(1995). Phenotypic Characteristics of the Female Indigenous Zebu Cattle. Sri Lanka Tropical Agricultural Research, 7, 289-290. Chandrasiri, A.D.N. (2002). The state of Animal Genetic Resources in Sri Lanka, country report presented to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Annual Report. (2016). Department of Animal Production and Health, Kandy, Sri Lanka Siriwardana, J.A., de, S., Subasinghe, D.H.A., Horadagoda, N.U., Abeygunawardana, H. (2000). Changing role of the buffalo in the new millennium in Asia, Proceedings of the third Asian Buffalo Congress, Sri Lanka. Rajamahendran, R., Rajamahendran, V., Ravindran, L.A., Goonewardene, P., Sahaayaruban and Rajaguru, A.S.B. (2008). Department of Animal Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. DAPH. (2010).The National Livestock breeding policy guidelines and strategies for Sri Lanka.
135 Strategies for Buffalo Development and Genetic Improvement in Nepal
Chapter 8 Strategies for Buffalo Development and Genetic Improvement in Nepal
Bhumi Nand Devkota Agriculture and Forestry University, Chitwan, Nepal Email: [email protected]
1. Background Animal genetic resources for food and agriculture comprise an essential component of the biological basis for food security in Nepal. Majority of poor rural people keep livestock and often rely on their animals to provide multiple products and services. In harsh environments where crops will not flourish, livestock keeping is often the main or only livelihood option available. Buffalo is considered as one of the top most valuable livestock species in Nepal. They are reared in the southern plains and around the river basins of the hills. There are about 5.16 million buffaloes in the country. They share 65% contribution to the national milk production and 54% to the national meat production, thus becoming the major source of economy and nutrition. Realizing the huge potentiality of the buffalo to contribute in food and economy, particularly of the rural communities, last 1 or 2 decades has seen a dramatic focus on buffalo development to enhance their productivity, conserve the genetic potentiality and address the welfare issues. In Nepal, this is well reflected in the government plans and policies as well as development projects related to the livestock. In research, cytogenetic study of indigenous buffaloes was started in Nepal about 20 years back aiming to conserve the genetic pool, and the universities and other research stations had started focusing on buffalo research to understand the genetic variation, enhance the production capacity and implement techniques to obtain economic production. In recent years Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU), the first government technical university in the country established in 2010 by upgrading the previous Agriculture, Animal Science and Forestry schools, is playing a key role in buffalo research focusing on nutrition-reproduction interactions and developing a novel technology to enhance fertility during low breeding season. The impact of such kind of works would be important on addressing the problem of acute shortage of milk in the country during spring and early summer months. Additionally, government research body,
136 Strategies for Buffalo Development and Genetic Improvement in Nepal
Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC) through National Buffalo Research Program (NBRP) in Tarahara and Animal Breeding Division (ABD) in Khumaltar are working on buffalo research. The outcome of the NBRP is minimal; however, ABD is working on genetic diversity study on Nepalese buffaloes using different molecular markers correlating with their phenotypes with the objective of finding some unique marker for selection so that more uniform population of buffalo genetic resources can be established. Studies on morphological and productive traits of non-descript Terai buffalo is also carried out by the ABD. Furthermore, ABD in collaboration with SAARC Agricultural Center is working on buffalo genetic improvement through introducing Nilli Ravi semen for AI in Nepalese buffaloes and has already produced some Nilli Ravi cross bred calves in Government Livestock Development Farm in Pokhara and the NBRP farm in Tarahara. There are large number of constraints particularly on policy related matters such developing breeding policy while conserving the indigenous genetic pool in one hand and improving genetic potentiality for production in other hand, as well as in research and development aspects in these areas. Therefore, there is a need to mitigate the gaps and further optimize the use of resources and undertake pragmatic breeding policy and research based development strategies for genetic improvement of buffaloes in the country. Considering a huge gap between the food and economic value of this animal and lack of priority based research efforts, establishment of a “Buffalo Research Center” as a center of excellence in the country is of prime importance.
2. Buffalo Genetic Diversities and Current Breeding Policies There are 3 indigenous breeds of buffaloes in Nepal such as Lime, Parkote and Gaddi widely spread in the hills and valleys whereas, Terai and Inner Terai region is dominated by exotic breed Murrah and their crossbred population. Moreover, there are sizable population of non-descript buffaloes throughout the country. Recently, Terai buffalo is also identified as an indigenous Nepalese breed. The production of native buffalo breeds is comparatively low (about 900 liter/lactation) as compared to the Murrah and their cross breeds (1500 liter/lactation). However, the native breeds have some other valuable adaptive and disease resistant characteristics under local climatology and management system. Buffalo production system in Nepal, so far, is a subsistence type. Recently, government has given priority in the improvement of production and productivity of buffaloes through a dedicated Central Cow Buffalo Promotion Office under the Directorate of Livestock Services (DLS). The government has also given priority to the conservation of native indigenous
137 Strategies for Buffalo Development and Genetic Improvement in Nepal buffaloes by endorsing and supporting implementation of the long term action plan of animal genetic resources in Nepal (2011-2021). Government, through DLS, has implemented various programs like Buffalo Genetic Improvement Program (BGIP), community buffalo bull distribution program, artificial insemination and forage missions, buffalo conservation, nutrition program of newly calved buffaloes and male buffalo fattening for meat production in many districts. Through the public private partnership, establishment of buffalo pocket area, resource centers and intensive resource centers has been implemented. Moreover genetic interventions, nutritional supplementation, commercialization, studying effects of climate change and its mitigation, product diversification of buffalo milk and meat as niche products could be some of the important way forward to increase the productivity and utilization of buffaloes in the country. The need of technical intervention to shorten the calving interval and overcoming the anestrous state, particularly a low breeding season intervention, is important tool to enhance the productivity of buffaloes. Government of Nepal has realized that future priority should be given towards research and technology development, and is committed to support on any future endeavor that helps on enhancing buffalo production in the country.
3. Need for Conservation of Indigenous Buffalo Genetics The unplanned slaughtering and rampant use for meat is an emerging scenario of need to conserve buffalo population in Nepal. Moreover, if the breeding policy fails to properly conserving the indigenous genetic pool and allows to cross-breed all those indigenous population in the name of breed improvement it will threaten or lead to vanishing the most-adapted indigenous buffalo germplasm in the country.
4. Goals for Development of Buffaloes As the government current goal is self-sustainability in terms of animal source food and buffalo is the major source of milk and meat in the country, our future goal should be directed to develop this commodity at par. To achieve it, government slogan should be “Self-sufficiency in animal source food through buffalo development”. In order to achieve this goal, following activities are recommended to be carried out immediately. Selecting and conserving the elite native breeds; Record based selective breeding of native indigenous breeds for their genetic improvement; Selection of superior sires out of the native breeds to promote genetic improvement;
138 Strategies for Buffalo Development and Genetic Improvement in Nepal
Maintaining a pure-bred exotic breed, preferably Indian Murrah, by establishing nucleus herds in several locations of the country; Cross breeding of inferior native buffaloes and all other non-descript buffaloes with potential Asian dairy buffalo, preferably using a grade Murrah bulls, up to certain generation (50% or 75% or 62.5%) for grading up in terms of genetic and production improvement; Applying the means or methods of advance reproductive technologies for further and continuing genetic improvement that include sire and dam selection, marker assisted selection, Timed AI programs, multiple ovulation and embryo transfer techniques and so on; Ensuring veterinary and other reproductive management service delivery at the doorsteps of farmers; Managing feed and fodder round the year; Producing clean and hygienic milk; Strengthening farmers cooperatives for ensuring fair deal to farmers; Developing farmer-friendly policies to promote growth and enhance profits;
5. Focus and Activities of Genetic Improvement of Buffaloes The focus on genetic improvement of buffaloes should be to enhance milk production, while conserving native breeds. The proposed activities can be grouped into research, technology development and field services. 5.1. Proposed research activities Genomic studies to identify the genes/DNA sequences for various economic traits and resistance to stress and diseases and genetic engineering to incorporate them for improvement of new progeny; Creation of gene banks of exotic and indigenous breeds; Identification of elite buffaloes in the field for herd registration; Field data recording and establishment of national data bank for evaluation of sires under progeny testing and studying the performance and economics of various indigenous breeds and different blood levels of exotic breeds, should be the base for formulating the national breeding policy; Standardization of oestrous synchronisation technique to enhance fertility round the year and increase coverage of buffaloes under AI programme; 5.2 Technological developments required to promote genetic improvements Developing technology for round the year calving in buffalo;
139 Strategies for Buffalo Development and Genetic Improvement in Nepal
Well coordinated programme for sire production, screening for genetically transmitted diseases, selection and evaluation of sires through progeny testing; Registration of all the bulls selected for semen freezing and setting minimum standards for semen production; Setting up high quality semen freezing facilities;
Field services required for promoting genetic improvement of buffaloes owned by farmers are establishment of buffalo breeding facilities to provide breeding services along with minor veterinary health care at the doorsteps of farmers even in remote villages. Government, AFU and NARC should jointly establish monitoring, evaluation and quality control mechanism for these activities. The paravets and the development agencies engaged in providing breeding services may also be entrusted with the responsibility of identifying elite animals which can be registered and used for production of bull mothers and breeding bulls required for future breed improvement.
6. Recommendations Following strategies are recommended for buffalo development and genetic improvement in Nepal. Develop a strong breeding policy focusing on conserving the indigenous buffalo genetics in one hand and improving genetic potentiality for production in other hand; Focus on the identified goals of buffalo development and genetic improvement; Genetic improvement program should focus on research, technology development and field services; For research and development, establishment of a “Buffalo Research Center” as a center of excellence and satellite research centers in the country is highly important; Selective breeding in indigenous buffalo breeds, maintaining a pure-bred exotic breed suitable for Nepal, genetic improvement of indigenous or non-descript buffalo breeds by cross breeding for grading up the genetic potentiality and adoption of advanced technologies for genetic improvement of buffaloes are the keys of buffalo genetic improvement;
140 Strategies for Buffalo Development and Genetic Improvement in Nepal
7. References Devkota, B., Bhattarai, N., Gautam, G., Sah, M.K., Luitel, H. eds. (2017). The proceedings of international buffalo symposium, Agriculture and Forestry University, Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal, November 15-18, 2017. pp. 1-4. Devkota, B., Sah, S., Gautam, G., Devkota, NR., Bhattarai, N., Pandeya, Y.R. (2018). Efficacy of timed artificial insemination (TAI) protocols in Nepalese buffaloes. Khurana SK, Dey A, Nayan V, Balhara AK, Sunesh, Jan MH, Singh RK, Singh M, Deeksha, Sarangi A, Pangai S and Kumar S (Eds.). “Climate resilient buffalo production for sustainable livelihood”. Book of Abstracts: IX Asian Buffalo Congress-2018, Feb 1-4, 2018, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar, Haryana, India, pp. 44. FAO. (2010). Breeding strategies for sustainable management of animal genetic resources. FAO animal production and health guidelines, No.3, Rome. Gorkhali, N.A., Sapkota, S., Dhakal, A., Pokharel, B.R., and Shrestha, Y.K. (2017). Buffalo population and breeding strategies for its genetic improvement in Nepal. The proceedings of international buffalo symposium (Eds. Devkota, B; Bhattarai, N; Gautam, G; Sah, MK, Luitel, H), Agriculture and Forestry University, Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal, November 15-18, 2017. pp. 218. Government of Nepal, Ministry of Agricultural Development. (2017). Statistical information on Nepalese agriculture 2015/2016. Nirmal, B.K., Devkota, B., Shrestha, S., and Subedi, S. (2018). Country report on buffalo production systems in Nepal. Khurana SK, Dey A, Nayan V, Balhara AK, Sunesh, Jan MH, Singh RK, Singh M, Deeksha, Sarangi A, Pangai S and Kumar S (Eds.). “Climate resilient buffalo production for sustainable livelihood”. Book of abstracts: IX asian buffalo congress-2018, Feb 1-4, 2018, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar, Haryana, India, pp. 6. Nirmal, B.K., Shrestha, S., and Subedi, S. (2017). Strategy to enhance the production and productivity of buffaloes for the growth of livestock gross domestic production (LGDP) of Nepal. The Proceedings of International Buffalo Symposium (Eds. Devkota, B; Bhattarai, N; Gautam, G; Sah, MK, Luitel, H), Agriculture and Forestry University, Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal, November 15- 18, 2017. pp. 5. Sapkota, S., Gorkhali, N.A., Bhattarai, N., Pokharel, B.R., Jha, P.K., and Shrestha, Y.K. (2017). Morphological and productive traits of buffaloes of Eastern Terai, Nepal. The Proceedings of International Buffalo Symposium (Eds. Devkota, B; Bhattarai, N; Gautam, G; Sah, MK, Luitel, H), Agriculture and Forestry University, Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal, November 15-18, 2017. pp. 81. Sethi, R.K. (2013). Breeding strategies for genetic improvement in buffaloes. Buffalo Bulletin, 32, 1, 219-226 ref.8. Sreenivas, D. (2013). Breeding policy strategies for genetic improvement of cattle and buffaloes in India, Vet World 6(7), 455-460.
141 Strategies for Genetic Improvement of Dairy Cattle and Buffalo in Nepal
Chapter 9 Strategies for Genetic Improvement of Dairy Cattle and Buffalo in Nepal
Lok Nath Paudel District Livestock Services Office, Department of Livestock Services Arghakhanchi, Nepal Email: [email protected]
1. Background Nepal is an agrarian country where more than 65% of the total population is still engaged in agriculture contributing about 32% to the total Gross Domestic Production (GDP) in the country. Livestock is the integral part of agricultural farming system which contributes about 11% to the national GDP and 26.8% to the agricultural GDP (MoLD, 2017). Dairy sector alone contributes more than 2/3rd of the livestock sector to the national economy. However, this sector is still dominated by the smallholders with mostly native breed of dairy animals. Buffalo and cattle are the two most important dairy species which provides about 70 and 30% of the total milk production in Nepal. There are above 7 million cattle and 5 million buffalo that produce about 2.6 million tons of milk annually in the country (DoLP, 2018). Only 30% of the total buffalo and 15% of the total cattle of Nepal are improved breed (either exotic or crossed or upgraded). Though native and local breeds are more adaptive to the harsh environment of the country they are very poor yielders. On an average, a native cattle produces 450 liter of milk per lactation where as the native breed of buffalo produces about 850 liter of milk per annum. National Animal Science Research Institute (NASRI) of Nepal Agriculture Research Council (NARC) reported that a F1 generation (cross of native and improved breed) of cattle can produce 1650 liter and that of buffalo can produce 1500 liter of milk per animal per lactation. Therefore, a big change in milk production is possible by using appropriate breeding technology in the area of dairy sector. Though, livestock breeding, feeding, health care and management are taken as the important pillars of livestock production, breeding program should get higher priority. It is because once the change in genetic merit it would be lifelong change in the individual animal. Because of this pertinent importance of livestock breeding Government of Nepal (GoN) has been launching natural as well as artificial insemination program since long back but because of lack of appropriate breeding strategy and breeding policy these program could not yet be materialized to take momentum in the area of
142 Strategies for Genetic Improvement of Dairy Cattle and Buffalo in Nepal breed improvement. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of United Nations (UN) recommends consuming 250ml of milk per day per person but it is still only around 175ml in Nepal. A huge amount of milk and milk products are being imported from abroad annually. Milk processing plants both public and private are running below their capacity because of unavailability of raw milk in their collection areas. In these circumstances, a clear strategy and policy are needed for the genetic improvement of dairy animals. In this paper, dairy sector development and the prevailing strategies and policies have been dealt in brief.
2. Brief history of dairy sector development in Nepal Breed improvement and dairy sector development programs date back to Rana regime in Nepal. Brief historical events of these sectors are listed below: 1861-import of European cattle in Rana regime (late prime-minister Junga Bahadur Rana) 1952-establishment of livestock improvement section in Singhdurbar 1952- Yak cheese production in Rasuwa with FAO support 1953- Small scale milk processing plant in Tushal of Kabhre district 1954- Dairy development section within Department of Agriculture (DOA) 1955- Dairy Development (DD) commission established 1956- Central dairy processing plant (500 liter per hour capacity) in Lainchaur, Kathmandu 1962- DD commission renamed as Dairy Development Board 1969- Dairy Development Corporation (DDC) established Late 1970s- Involvement of private sector in dairy industry 1980- Milk producers' cooperative and association 1992- National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) established 1995- Establishment of skim milk processing plant (SMPP) in Biratnagar from public side 2008-09- SMPP in Kaski and Chitwan established by private sector 2016- Ministry of Livestock Development (MoLD) established 2018- MoLD merged into Ministry of Agriculture, Land Management and Cooperative (MoALMC)
143 Strategies for Genetic Improvement of Dairy Cattle and Buffalo in Nepal
3. Dairy Animal Production System Buffalo and cattle are the two important animals considered as the dairy animal in Nepal. The dairy animal production system is not systematic. Following points give brief scenarios of the production system: Either only cattle or buffalo or cattle and buffalo mixed is common; A system in which buying lactating buffaloes, keeping for whole lactation period and selling either for slaughter or for breeding after cessation of lactation is also common in milk grid areas; Disposal of male buffalo and cattle calves at early age is most prevalent system in milk grid areas; Stall fed system for high producing and grazing for indigenous cattle and buffalo is a common practice; Very low productivity of indigenous breeds; No approved breeding policy yet; No specified breeding strategy or plan or program; Dairy Cattle Improvement Program (DCIP), 2008 and Dairy Cattle and Buffalo Genetic Improvement Program (DCBGIP), 2011 that leaded to the Artificial Insemination (AI) mission program were the two notable program in the area of genetic improvement in Nepal
4. Breeding Plan and its Use in Genetic Improvement of Dairy Cattle in Nepal A breeding plan is the organized structure that is set up in order to realize the desired genetic improvement of the population. The plan should consider the following points: What is the breeding objective: which traits need to be improved and how important, are different traits in relation to each other. What and how do we measure? Which traits, which animals? Do we need to use any reproductive technology: NS, AI and/or ET, if possible? How many and which animals do we need to select as parents for the next generation? How to mate the selected males and females? What are the data recording and collection system? What are the methods and tools for breeding value estimation? What and which principles and methods are adopted for selection and mating?
144 Strategies for Genetic Improvement of Dairy Cattle and Buffalo in Nepal
What are the structures for dissemination of genetic progress to production population? Present breeding policy for the genetic improvement?
Above mentioned points are to be seriously considered for the breed improvement program but in Nepal have no breeding policy yet. The breed improvement programs have been launched considering the breed improvement draft of 2000 in Nepal. Considering high importance of breeding policy a three members technical committee was formed from the Department of Livestock Services (DLS) in the fiscal year 2010/11. The committee had submitted a report to DLS within the given time. After series of meetings and discussion on the draft, a final draft of the livestock breeding policy was submitted to the Ministry of Agriculture in the same fiscal year. However, it has not yet been approved from the ministry side. Therefore, livestock breed improvement program till now are being launched based on the draft of 2000 and 2010/11. To systematize the breeding plan and selection of the bulls based on genotypic traits, DCIP was introduced in 2008 in Nepal.
5. Dairy Cattle Improvement Program (DCIP) and Dairy Cattle and Buffalo Genetic Improvement Program (DCBGIP) To start pedigree performance recording scheme (PPRS) for the genetic improvement of dairy cattle, DCIP was started from the financial and technical collaboration in Nepal. FAO assistance was approved in April 2008 under the technical cooperation programme (TCP/NEP/3105) for “Dairy Cattle Improvement Project" for a period of 18 months with a budget of USD 360,000. The government counterpart agency designated responsible for project implementation was the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives (MoAC). Project activities began in July 2008 and, following revision, ended in December 2009. However, an extension in support of the above project was approved on January 26, 2010 till June 30, 2010. A no cost extension was approved till 30 September, 2010 (FAO, 2010). The DLS and NARC) under MOAC were the main institutions to run the programs. National Livestock Breeding Centre (NLBC) under DLS is the main institution involved for production of semen and supply of input of AI nationwide. The central cattle and buffalo promotion office (CCBPO) under the Directorate of Livestock Production (DoLP), DLS, coordinated the program from DLS side. The ABD under National Animal Science Research Institution (NASRI), NARC undertook genetic evaluation research activities. The FAO-TCP worked closely with these institutions along with the fourteen districts livestock services offices. The project aimed to achieve the objective through:
145 Strategies for Genetic Improvement of Dairy Cattle and Buffalo in Nepal
Expert advice and training of trainers (extension workers) in dairy cattle feeding and management, particularly in the use and demonstration of alternative feed resources; Establishment of a pilot performance recording scheme with modern analytical methods to allow; Farmers to base their management decisions on solid data and consequently improve productivity and economic returns. This is particularly useful for the bigger herds; Improved performance of the extension services particularly for the larger herds, as advice could be based on quality data; Identification of the best cows to serve as bull mothers for the production of bulls for natural mating and AI services; Comparison of breeds and crosses with subsequent choice of the most appropriate breed for a given agro-ecological and management regime. This is particularly important for the development of future breeding strategies and development programme for Nepal; Better planning of DLS interventions in the dairy sector based on solid and reliable data; Simple (i.e.) feeding trials at little extra costs; Support for the establishment of herd books for Jersey and Friesian herds as potential supplier of quality males for AI and natural mating in areas where AI cannot be done and females for general distribution; Development of strategy that will help the private sector to undertake dairy cattle performance recording and improved breeding practices fully or partly (farmers and AI Centre or other stakeholders)
5.1 Methodology Applied in DCIP Fourteen districts were selected based upon the availability of cross breed animals, potentiality for the dairy sector development, facilities for the AI program and government priorities for the genetic improvement of cattle. More than 6,000 cross-bred cattle from 858 herd were air tagged for the project intervention. About 2,500 lactating cows were identified for the monthly milk recording under the PPRS. Unique identification of animals with latest plastic tags, herds’ identification, recording formats, introduction of lactoscans for milk analysis, were done according to the rules set by international centre for animal recordings(ICAR). All the herds and animals were identified with the help of concern District Livestock Services Offices (DLSOs) supervisors, field level inseminators and recorders. The field recorders were trained for recordings supervised by respective districts supervisor who were trained as training of
146 Strategies for Genetic Improvement of Dairy Cattle and Buffalo in Nepal trainers (ToT). All the cattle herds of DLS, NARC and bigger herds of farmers from the selected districts were included in the Pedigree Performance Recording Scheme. The data collected were put in the computer with the guidance of international consultant using the microsoft access software. The genetic analysis were made using R-packages. 5.2 Termination of FAO funded DCIP and initiation of DCBGIP in Nepal DCIP provided very good results but terminated in September, 2010. For the sustainability of the program and to incorporate the most important dairy animal, buffalo, a project entitled as dairy cattle and buffalo genetic improvement program (DCBGIP) was proposed by the Central Cattle and Buffalo Promotion Office (CCBPO) under the DoLP, DLS, MoAC. The project was funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for the period of three years. In addition to 14 DCIP district 10 districts (Saptari, Siraha, Dhanusha, Mahottari, Sarlahi, Bara, Parsa, Nawalparasi, Kapilvastu and Kaski) were included in the program. In collaboration with Animal Breeding Division (ABD) of NASRI, NARC the CCBPO coordinated the program from 2011 to 2013 (3 years). After the termination of the USAID financial support for the DCBGIP, GoN, MoAC has been continuing the budget and the program is still going on for the dairy animal genetic improvement program in Nepal. 5.2.1 Envisaged outcomes of the DCBGIP The main envisaged outcomes of the program were as following: Availability of high genetic worth bulls required for NLBC each year; Provision of next best bulls for natural services to other non-project districts; Suitable breed/ crossbreeds recommendation for different environment and production system; Long term recording system establishment for genetic improvement in the country; The approaches/strategies in DCBGIP The program has two different approaches/strategies for the genetic improvement of the dairy animals as follows:
147 Strategies for Genetic Improvement of Dairy Cattle and Buffalo in Nepal
The Approaches/Strategies Breeding programme schematic first two years
AI top imported semen Top go AI Center 50 Top go AI Center
Bulls for Total population
Total population Natural AI imported Recorded service semen Population 2500
Non recorded population
Breeding programme schematic 3rd year onwards
AI top imported semen 50 Top bull go AI Center
AI imported 20% Total population
Total population semen Recorded Population Bulls for 2500 Natural service
Non recorded population
5.2.1.1 Parameters recorded in PPRS program Following were the important dairy related parameters recorded in PPRS in the DCBGIP Herd details
148 Strategies for Genetic Improvement of Dairy Cattle and Buffalo in Nepal
Animal details (ID, breed, sex, date of birth) Monthly records Morning and evening milk Milk sample analysis AI records Calving Death/ exit Movement Disease and treatment New animal entry
It has been found that there is ample possibility of incremental change in milk production and percentage of milk fat content from the breed improvement but very less increase is possible in milk protein. 5.2.1.2 Lesson learned from the DCBGIP in Nepal DCBGIP program could be taken as the milestone for the milk production program of Nepal. Based upon the success story of the DCIP, animal breed improvement program, commonly known as "AI Mission" was introduced and from/for the success of AI mission program the "Forage Mission" also going on for the dairy sector, in specific, and for the whole livestock sector development, in general, in the country. Followings are some of the lesson learned from the programs: The role of recorder is very crucial in the genetic improvement program; DLSOs role in supervising field activities and linkage with centre is vital and ownership feeling is essential; Dairy cooperatives and private institution can be utilized for effective field implementation in the future; Smaller herd size- costly and difficult for monitoring; In buffaloes- PPRS system and smaller herd size- more difficult than in cattle; Breeders' association is needed for the continuation of the program; Right man in right position at right time and for long period is a must for the success of the dairy animal genetic improvement program in Nepal; 5.3 Planned implementing modality for the future Genetic improvement is a continuous process. It neither can be achieved in a short time nor be stopped after some achievement. Following points should be considered for the effective improvement of the dairy animals in Nepal:
149 Strategies for Genetic Improvement of Dairy Cattle and Buffalo in Nepal
Reducing herd numbers from more than 800 to 100-125 in cattle and include NARC, University and private big buffalo farms for the effective implementation of the program; Already registered herds-continuation in those with more than 10 milking animals; Herds possessing more than 20 milking animals and willing to participate in PPRS can be registered in the program; Initiation of progeny testing in cattle is must; Embryo transfer technology for genetic progress is also needed; 6. Conclusion Effective strategy for the genetic improvement of dairy animals is most important among the four pillars of livestock development in Nepal. However, this sector is becoming paralyzed because of no breeding policy approved yet by the government. In absence of breeding policy, DCIP and DCBGIP have created a platform to make effective strategies and appropriate livestock policy in the country. These programs have clearly shown that remarkable positive change in dairy sector is possible if effective genetic improvement strategies could adopted based upon the national livestock breeding policy. Following points can be put forward as the conclusion for the genetic improvement of dairy animals in Nepal: Continuation of DCBGIP in more effective way is a must for the genetic progress of dairy animals; Livestock breeding policy at hand within a short period of time is most demanding; Progeny testing for test bulls and proven bull production for semen collection in NLBC must get high priority; Embryo transfer can be made possible by enhancing manpower and infrastructure needed for the program; Sexed semen production of cattle in the country should be started soon; 7. References CCBPO. (2014). Annual technical progress report. Central cattle and buffalo promotion office, Hariharbhawan, Nepal. DoLP. (2018). Annual technical booklet. Directorate of livestock production, Hariharbhawan, Nepal. FAO. (2010). Dairy cattle improvement project. Terminal statement paper. Food and agricultur organization, Hariharbhawan, Nepal. MoA. (2016).Some statistical information of agricultural sector of Nepal. Ministry of agriculture, Singhdurbar, Kathmandu, Nepal. MoLD. (2017). Statistical information of livestock sector of Nepal. Ministry of livestock development, Singhdurbar, Kathmandu, Nepal.
150 Genetic and Phenotypic Diversity in Nepalese Sheep and Goats
Chapter 10 Genetic and Phenotypic Diversity in Nepalese Sheep and Goats: Implication for Exploitation and Conservation
Neena Amatya Gorkhali Animal Breeding Division, Nepal Agricultural Research Council Khumaltar, Nepal Email: [email protected]
1. Introduction Small ruminants (sheep and goats) are essential components of the mixed farming systems in the hills of Nepal, and are distributed in all parts of country. They are mainly kept for meat, although wool (sheep), fiber (goats) and manure are also important products from these animals. The subsistence farmers in the hills have little surplus agricultural produce to sell. They therefore depend upon the sale of livestock and their products as a source of income. Among the livestock, a high proportion of sheep and goats are found in the hills due to their inherent ability to utilize mountain terrain which are unsuitable for crop farming. Resource-poor farmers of the hills, who cannot invest large sums of money in cattle and buffalo, prefer sheep and goat husbandry which has no social, religious or cultural taboos, or caste restrictions. Only 5 to 25 percent of this commodity is exotic (pure or crossbred) in case of sheep and goat respectively and the rest is indigenous suggesting more contributions come from the indigenous breeds. These indigenous sheep are high valued for meat, wool, manure and draught (particularly in the hills and mountains). Small ruminants, in the hills of Nepal, are reared either under a sedentary or a migratory system. Sedentary flocks may be stall-fed, semi- stall-fed or completely grazed, whilst the migratory flocks are reared under an extensive management system. Many efforts have been made over the past three decades to increase production from sheep and goats, and this paper will describe the existing sheep and goat resources, their management systems and the various efforts employed in trying to improve their production.
151 Genetic and Phenotypic Diversity in Nepalese Sheep and Goats
2. Population Distribution
9000000 8000000 7000000 6000000 5000000 goat 4000000 sheep 3000000 2000000 1000000 0 1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23
Figure 1. Population trend of small ruminants of Nepal for 24 years till 2017 (FAO, 2017)
Over 87% of the sheep and 64% of the total goat populations of the country are reared in the hill regions. Goats are more common in the hills, whereas sheep are almost equally distributed between the hills and mountains. These population distribution indicates the importance of sheep and goat husbandry in hill and mountain regions compared to the Terai. When compared with the population of last 24 years, the overall goat population has shown the positive trend whereas the population of sheep is decreasing (Figure1).
3. Sheep Breeds
Figure 2. Different sheep breeds of Nepal (clockwise: Bhyanglung, Baruwal, Kage and Lampuchhre)
152 Genetic and Phenotypic Diversity in Nepalese Sheep and Goats
The indigenous sheep have been classified into four breeds: Bhyanglung, Baruwal, Kage and Lampuchhre. These breeds are well-adapted to the variations of altitude and the natural environment. Out of the total estimated sheep population, it has been grossly estimated that 4% are Bhyanglung, 63% are Baruwal, 21% are Kage and 12% Lampuchhre (Figure 2). These indigenous sheep are high valued for meat, wool, manure and draught (particularly in the hills and mountains). Apart from these, they have several other uses such as hides, bones and hair. They also have cultural and social values in the country.
Figure 3. Population of different sheep breeds of Nepal (%)
4. Goat Breeds There are four indigenous breeds of goat available in the country distributed across various ecological zones that has been identified and characterized so far. They are Terai, Khari, Sinhal and Chyangra (Shrestha, 1995; Neopane, 2005; Gorkhali et al., 2014). Across southern plains and inner terai (100 to 500 ASL) from east to west Nepal, Terai goats are dominant. Khari or hill goats are the major goat species found across the mid-hills region of Nepal at an altitude of 500 to 1500 average sea level (ASL). Besides this, presence of some subtypes/strains is also found in Khari goats of the country. Kunwar (2000) studied Khari goat across the hills in the country and reported that three distinct strains (small, medium and large) existed among Khari population. Small types based on body size are found in the eastern region while that of large type was found in the western region. In high hills or mountains regions Sinhal goats are major goat species from 1500 to 2400 ASL. Chyangra goats are dominant across northern trans-Himalayan regions from an altitude of 2500 to 5000 ASL.
153 Genetic and Phenotypic Diversity in Nepalese Sheep and Goats
Table 1. Different goat breeds and their estimated population (in millions) distribution in Nepal Sl. No. Goat Breeds Percentage Population (in millions) 1 Terai 27 2.967 2 Khari 56 6.152 3 Sinhal 16 1.758 4 Chyangra 1 0.109 Total 100 10.986 Source: FAO Country Report, 2014; DLS Annual Report, 2016
Figure 5. Different goat breeds of Nepal
5. Research on Small Ruminants Animal Breeding Division, one of the disciplinary divisions under National Animal Science Research Institute, is a national level organization mandated for breeding related research on domesticated farm animal species throughout the country. The division undertakes its research activities both at NARC stations (RARS, ARS, commodity programmes) and at farmers' livestock herds/ flock in all three agro-ecozones and five development regions of the country. It has also access to the government livestock farms for undertaking research particularly on genetic improvement of farm animals. The division works in close collaboration with Department of
154 Genetic and Phenotypic Diversity in Nepalese Sheep and Goats
Livestock Services and its regional and district level offices and private and public universities. For the research impact studies, ABD with socio- economic division of NARC works together. ABD develops the proposal under following three thematic areas: Reproduction physiology and biotechnology Genetic resources conservation, promotion and utilization Animal genetic improvement /breed development 5.1 Research on sheep genetic resources The characterization of Nepalese sheep breeds was done with the initiation of Animal Breeding Division, Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC) documenting the phenotypic variation and production performance of indigenous sheep, starting from 1991 (Tsunoda et al., 2009; Neopane et al., 2008). Furthermore, the division initiated activities aimed at characterization of these genetic resources at both chromosomal (refer Table: Karyotype and number of chromosomes in the Nepalese sheep) (Dohge et al., 1989) and protein polymorphism studies (Tsunoda et al., 1989, 2006, 2010; Sun et al., 2010). Recently, molecular characterization was performed in holistic approach considering mt-DNA, Y-chromosome and nuclear DNA to ascertain their status including distribution, population change and genetic diversity (Gorkhali et al., 2014; Gorkhali et al., 2016).
Domestic animals are perfect materials for the detection of signatures of selection since they have been adapted to different kinds of environment and developed genotypes and phenotypes accordingly over the time of domestication and through the subsequent selection resulting from the condition of their habitat such as high altitude environment. Due to the unique geography of Nepal, containing eight of the world’s ten highest mountains in the north and lowland Terai plains in the south, Nepalese sheep are one of the best domestic animals for the study of high altitude adaptation. Population structure analyses of indigenous sheep revealed that one highland breed (Bhyanglung) has similar genetic background as the Tibetan sheep, while another highland breed (Baruwal) shows a distinctly different
155 Genetic and Phenotypic Diversity in Nepalese Sheep and Goats population structure. The two lowland breeds (Kage and Lampuchhre) were found to be mixed with the highland and Indian lowland breeds (refer Phylogenetic neighbor joining tree, Gorkhali et al., 2016). To understand the genetic basis of adaptation to high altitude in farm animals, by comparing the breeds from different altitudes revealed strong signals of population differentiation at the four loci of hypoxia-related genes out of which three are novel mutations for this specific function. Out of these, FGF7 is the most promising one with epithelium specific expression and an important role in early lung organogenesis and the morphogenesis of epithelium. Furthermore, identified one novel upstream regulatory novel mutation specific to the high- altitude sheep.
This study is the first one to characterize genetic polymorphism of valuable Nepalese sheep genetic resources which have very unique properties of adaptation to high-altitude environment. We have also provided important information on the genetic diversity of the Nepalese sheep and potential mechanisms for the adaptation to hypoxia caused by high altitude. This study further opens a new avenue to study on the identified genes for the functional mechanism in the adaptive processes. 5.2 Research on goat genetic resources The mt-DNA genetic diversity study revealed that Nepalese goats were shaped not only by the extensive gene flow to the high-altitude goat
156 Genetic and Phenotypic Diversity in Nepalese Sheep and Goats southwards down to hill goats from China but also by the continuous exchanges between sheep found in mid hills and low lands of Nepal and India (Gorkhali et al., 2014). The available information on genetic variation on the small ruminants is the prerequisite to promote actions particularly at the national level to improve the information based on Nepalese sheep breeds and provide inputs into the national sheep diversity conservation policy. There are on-going activities which are built on the result so far. 5.3 Ongoing activities and prospective Following are the on-going activities: Sampling of sheep and goats; Gene expression work Complete genomic studies using whole genome sequencing Functional diversity, e.g. SNPs involved in key metabolic pathways influencing production, disease resistance and morphological traits (sheep and goats) Selection using DNA marker information and pedigree information. Genetic improvement and add-value to the important and unique indigenous breeds
6. Recommendation for the Conservation 6.1 Breeding strategies for declining/ endangered population Selection using phenotype, performance, DNA marker information and pedigree information; More number of males to be involved; 6.2 Breeding strategies for normal population Selection using phenotype, performance, DNA marker information and pedigree information; Cross breeding;
7. Challenges for Sheep/ Goat Farming in Nepal Breeding strategy, policy guidelines and implementation; Incorporation of genomic selection; Pedigree and progeny data recording; Maintenance and improvement of pure breed for specific traits; Commercial production (cross breed);
157 Genetic and Phenotypic Diversity in Nepalese Sheep and Goats
8. Regional Cooperation All these above mentioned issues (challenges) in sheep and goat farming are cross-border or trans-boundary in nature, and the regional collaboration and cooperation is required for better genetic improvement in the following areas Investigation of genetic variation and breed improvement; Genetic exchange; Product trading; Sustainable value chains; Cultural conservation; Capacity building; Technology sharing; Exchange of expertise;
9. References Annual report. (2016). Department of Livestock Services (DLS), Govt. of Nepal Dohge, K., Tsunoda, K., Nishida, T., and Rajbhandary, H.B. (1989). Karyotype analysis of the native sheep in Nepal. In: Morphological and genetic studies on the native domestic animals and their wild forms in Nepal. Faculty of Agriculture, The University of Tokyo, Japan. pp. 77-81. FAO. (2014). Country Report, FAO, Nepal. Gorkhali N.A., Shrestha B.S., Ma, Y.H., and Han, J.L., (2014a). Mitochondrial genetic diversity in domestic goats of Nepal. In: proceeding of the 16th Asian- Australasian Association of Animal Production Societies (AAAP) congress, 10-14 November 2014, Gadjah Mada University, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, II, 109-112. Gorkhali, N.A., Han, J.L., and Ma, Y.H., (2014b). Mitochondrial genetic diversity in Nepalese domestic sheep (Ovis aries). Tropical Agriculture Research Journal, 26 (Accepted) Gorkhali, N.A., Shrestha, B., Ma, Y.H., and Han, J.L., (2014a). Mitochondrial DNA diversity in Nepalese indigenous goats (Capra hirus). Proceeding of the 34th conference of International Society of Anim Genet (ISAG), Xi’an, Shaanxi, China. pp. 110-111. http://faostat.fao.org, 2017 Kunwar, B.S., Kharel, M., Neopane, S.P., (2000). Haemoglobin and transferrin polymorphism in Nepalese hill goats. In: proceeding of the 4th National Animal Science Convocation, pp. 141-151. Neopane, S.P., Gorkhali, N.A., and Pokhrel, P.K. (2008). Sheep genetic resources of Nepal. published by Animal Breeding Division, Nepal Agriculture Research Council, Nepal. Pp. 14.
158 Genetic and Phenotypic Diversity in Nepalese Sheep and Goats
Neopane, S.P., Gorkhali, N.A., and Pokhrel, P.K. (2005). Indigenous goat breeds of Nepal. published by Animal Breeding Division, Nepal Agricultural Research Council, pp. 1-15. Shrestha, N.P. (1995). Animal genetic resources of Nepal and their conservation. In: proceedings of the RBI 3rd global conference on conservation of domestic animal genetic resources, Canada. 113-119. Sun, W., Chang, H., Tsunoda, K., Musa, H.H., Yang, Z.P., Ma, Y.H., and Guan, W.J. (2010). The phylogeographic system survey of native sheep breeds in the eastern and southern central Asia. Journal of Animal Breeding Genetics, 127(4), 308-317. Tsunoda, K., Hong, C., Wei, S., Hasnath, M., Nyunt, M.M., Rajbhandary, H.B., Dorji, T., Tumennasan, H., and Sato, K. (2006). Phylogenetic relationships among indigenous sheep populations in East Asia based on five informative blood protein and non protein polymorphisms. Biochem genet, 44(7-8), 287- 306. Tsunoda, K., Yamamoto, Y., Namikawa, T., Shotake, T., Amano, T., Maeda, Y., Nishida, T., and Rajbhandary, H.B. (1989). Morphological characteristics and genetic variability of the native sheep of Nepal. In: morphological and genetical studies on the native domestic animals and their wild forms in Nepal. Faculty of Agriculture, the University of Tokyo, Japan. pp. 49-76.
159 Report of the Consultation Meeting
Report of the Consultation Meeting
A very special SAARC regional consultation meeting on "Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies for the Genetic Improvement of Indigenous Animal Resources" was held from 11-13 April, 2018 at Hotel da Yatra, Pokhara Nepal. The inaugural session was started at 09:15 hours on 11 April, 2018 on the chairmanship of the Director, SAARC Agriculture Center (SAC), Dr. S. M. Bokhtiar. Honorable Minister of the Ministry of Land Reform, Agriculture and Cooperatives, Mr. Lekh Bahadur Thapa Magar was the chief guest of the inaugural session. Honorable member of the state parliament (state number 4) Deepak Thapa was also present as the special guest. The inaugural session was also graced by Dr. Bimal Kumar Nirmal, Director General, Department of Livestock Services, Nepal and Dr. Habibar Rahman, Regional Representative for South Asia, International Livestock Research Institute, India. The country focal persons from SAARC Member States and professionals from different organization of Nepal attended the inaugural session. Dr. Bimal Kumar Nirmal, DG of the Department of Livestock services, Nepal warmly welcomed the chief guests, special guest and all the other guests and dignitaries of the meeting. He stressed about the indigenous animal resources of the region, their importance and need of their conservation and promotion. Furthermore, he highlighted about the indigenous animal resources of Nepal and their contribution in the areas of food and nutritional security, income generation and livelihood improvement of the farmers of Nepal. He wished for the pleasant stay of the guests and dignitaries in the very beautiful city of Nepal, Pokhara and hoped that the meeting will be a cornerstone for the formulation of animal breeding policies and strategies for the genetic improvement of indigenous animal resources. Dr. Md. Nure Alam Siddiky, Senior Program Officer (Livestock), SAC, highlighted the objective of the meeting. He stressed that SAARC region is very rich in the areas of indigenous animal resources but these resources are not well utilized. He also addressed about the importance of animal breeding policies and strategies for the genetic improvement of indigenous animal resources in the region. He further pointed out that the meeting was organized to share the policies and strategies that are already at hand with some countries and those who are in the process of policy formulation. According to Dr. Siddiky, this meeting was organized to bring all the stakeholders' representatives working in the areas of animal breeding in a round table, discuss about the issues and come forward with the framework for the policy and strategies about the genetic improvement of indigenous animal resources.
160 Report of the Consultation Meeting
Dr. Habibar Rahman, Regional Representative for South Asia, International Livestock Research Institute, India, in his inaugural address opined that there are huge number breeds of indigenous animals which are very important for the nation. He stressed that these animals must be taken care with the good nutrition, breeding, health care and management. He pointed out that healthy animals lead to healthy human beings and without agriculture no lifestyle could proceed! He further pointed out that 70% of the poor people of Africa and SAARC raise animals where ILRI is working with such an important commodity. Dr. Rahman wished that this three days meeting will come forward to create a road map in the area of animal breeding in this region. Addressing as the chief guest of the session, Hon. Minister for Land Reform, Agriculture and Cooperative, Lekh Bahadur Thapa Magar pointed out the share of livestock in Nepalese agriculture and to the Gross Domestic Production (GDP) in Nepal. He pointed out the Government of Nepal has given high priority for the agricultural sector in general and to the livestock sector in particular. The state government will also put high priority in livestock sector for the prosperity of the farmers and as a whole nation. He thanked to the organizer to convene such an important meeting in such a beautiful place of Pokhara. He wished for the grand success of the meeting and look forward to formulate the appropriate animal breeding policies and strategies for the genetic improvement of the indigenous animal resources in the region. Dr. Kiran Pandey, livestock development officer of the department of livestock services, Nepal delivered vote of thanks to the chief guest, special guests, guests, dignitaries and all the participants and the stakeholders who contributed their time, mind and money to conduct the meeting. He especially thanked the chief guest, Hon. Minister for Land Management, Agriculture and Cooperatives of the State 4 of Nepal who despite of his busy schedule provided his time to attain and address the inaugural session. He also thanked Hon. member of the parliament Deepak Thapa for his presence in the inaugural session and for his best wishes to make the meeting a grand success. Dr. Pandey also thanked Dr.H. Rahman, Regional Member, ILRI, Dr. S. M. Bokhtiar, Director of SAC, Dr. Bimal Kumar Nirmal, DG, DLS and Dr. Md. Nure Alam Siddiky for their contribution in conducting the meeting. Speaking as the chairperson of the session, Dr. S.M. Bokhtiar, Director of the SAC, highlighted about the establishment of SAC in 1987 in Dhaka for the overall development of the agricultural sector in the region. He pointed out that very good publication had already been done from SAC for the dissemination of agricultural tools and technologies in the region. He stressed that Bhutan, Nepal and Pakistan are the landlocked countries and Maldives and Sri Lanka being the islands and India and Bangladesh very potential for the agricultural production that can easily raise the livelihood of the people
161 Report of the Consultation Meeting from the substantial increment in the agricultural production. He further noted that indigenous livestock are much more important in the rural areas and they have very multi dimensional important in the region. With his remarks the inaugural session was closed around 11:15am of the day. As per the schedule, first technical session was started around 11:45am. Dr. Bimal Kumar Nirmal, DG of DLS, Nepal chaired the session. Four country status papers were presented in first technical session. The first paper was from Ms. Zeenat Sultana, Upazilla Livestock Officer, Department of Livestock Services, Dhaka, Bangladesh. The second paper was presented by Dr. Jigme Wangdi, Principal Production Officer, Department of Livestock, Ministry of Agriculture and Forest, Royal Government of Bhutan. The third paper was from Dr. Bhusan Tyagi, Assistant Commissioner, Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India. Similarly fourth and the last paper of the first technical session was presented by Mr. Rudra Prasad Poudel, Chief of National Livestock Breeding Center, Department of Livestock Services, Nepal. All the papers in the form of full article have been included in the proceedings. The second technical session of the day was started at 14:30pm. The first paper of the session, country status report of Sri Lanka, was presented by Dr. P.G. Seneviratne, Veterinary Surgeon, Department of Animal Production and Health, Kandy Sri Lanka. The second paper of the second technical session was presented by Dr. H. Rahman on the activities of ILRI. In his presentation, Dr. H. Rahman stressed about the importance of livestock and role of ILRI in livestock research and development. He mentioned that 13% of the total calories and 28% of the total protein of the world comes from livestock. Livestock, especially, goats are taken as the ATM, living refrigerators and poor men's cow! He also stressed that out of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals 8 (1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 12, 13 and 15) are related to livestock. This technical session was completed around 16:30pm. All the papers in the form of full article have been included in the proceedings. The third technical session was named as the special presentation session which was started around 17:00pm. The first paper was on 'Policy and Way Forward for AnGR Conservation in Nepal' presented by Dr. Bimal Kumar Nirmal, DG, DLS, Nepal. The second paper of the session was on 'Strategies for Buffalo Development and Genetic Improvement in Nepal' presented by Dr. Bhumin Nanda Devkota, Professor and Coordinator of Post Graduate Program, Agriculture and Forestry University, Chitwan, Nepal. The third and last paper of the session was on 'Strategies for genetic improvement of dairy cattle in Nepal' presented by Dr. Lok Nath Paudel, Senior Livestock Development Officer, District Livestock Services Office, Arghakhanchi, Nepal. All the papers in the form of full article have been included in the proceedings.
162 Report of the Consultation Meeting
The second day of the meeting was started at 09:00am. The first technical session of the day was chaired by Dr. Habibar Rahman, Regional Representative, International Livestock Research Institute, India. The first paper entitled 'New insights into infertility: A major constraints for breed improvement' was presented by Dr. Kiran Pandey, Livestock Development Officer, DLS, Nepal. The second technical paper was presented by Dr. Neena Amatya Gorkhali, Senior Scientist, Nepal Animal Science Research Institute, Nepal. The paper was on 'Genotypic and phenotypic diversity in Nepalese sheep and goats: Implication for exploitation and conservation'. The third paper entitled as 'SAARC initiatives on livestock' was presented by Dr. Md. Nure Alam Siddiky, Senior Program Officer, SAC. Bangladesh. All three papers have been included in the proceeding. After presentation of all the papers scheduled in the program and with very good discussion the meeting was turned to the recommendation session. Three groups were formulated to make the recommendation on breeding policies and strategies for indigenous animals. The groups were formed as below: 1. Breeding policies and strategies for Bovine species (cattle, buffalo and yak). 2. Breeding policies and strategies for pig and poultry and 3. Breeding policies and strategies for Caprine species (goat and sheep). Members of the meeting were divided into different groups as per their expertise and interest. After about 2 hours of rigorous group discussion, the teams were come up with the recommendation and presented in the plenary session. The recommendations of the first group for Bovine species were presented by Dr. Bhusan Tyagi. Recommendations of the group have been included in the proceeding. Dr. Nanda Prasad Shrestha inquired about the possibilities of germplasm exchange especially of Murrah buffalo from India and Nili Ravi buffalo from Pakistan. Dr. Lok Nath Paudel also raised some queries about the procurement or supply of elite Murrah buffalo from India. Dr. Paudel also enquired about the farmers' access and benefit sharing for the conservation of the indigenous livestock in their communities. Dr. Bhusan Tyagi, Dr. Rahman and Dr. Siddiky responded on the issues raised by Dr. Shrestha and Dr. Paudel. They explained that it would be easy to exchange the semen and embryos but the process would be lengthy for the provision of live animals from one country to others. They suggested trying through the respective embassies. The recommendations of the second group for the poultry were presented by Dr. Neena Amatya Gorkhali. Dr. H. Rahman suggested to include other indigenous breeds of poultry found in other SAARC countries, rather not
163 Report of the Consultation Meeting only about Sakhini and other indigenous breeds of poultry found in Nepal. Dr. Nanda Prasad Shrestha also commented on the recommendations of the group. Dr. Nanda Prasad Shrestha presented the recommendations on breeding policies and strategies for the indigenous pig. Dr. Lok Nath Paudel, Dr. H. Rahman, Dr. Md. Nure Alam Siddiky, Dr. Bimal Kumar Nirmal commented to the recommendations and urged to make a concise recommendations. The third group who was worked on caprine species came with the recommendations which was presented by Dr. Nanda Prasad Shrestha. Mr. Sivanath Mahato, Dr. Neena Amatya Gorkhali, Mr. Rudra Prasad Poudel and Dr. Lok Nath Paudel commented on the recommendations. After the presentation of the recommendations by different groups on breeding policy and strategies for the indigenous livestock of SAARC region, the plenary concluded to make brief and concise recommendations by incorporating the comments and suggestions from the members of the meeting for different species of the indigenous livestock in the SAARC region. The last session of the day was the closing session. This session was chaired by Dr. Bimal Kumar Nirmal, DG of DLS, Nepal. Dr. H. Rahman and Dr. S.M. Bokhtiar as the guest speakers spoke about the grand success of the meeting. Both of them thanked Dr. Bimal Kumar Nirmal, DG, DLS for making the meeting a grand success! Dr. Kiran Pandey was also thanked by all the speakers for his untired efforts right from the initiation of the meeting till its completion. All the participants were offered the Momento and certificates from the guests and the chairperson. At the end, Dr. Md. Nure Alam Siddiky delivered the vote of thanks to all the guests, delegates and the participants of the meeting. The chairperson of the closing session, Dr. Bimal Kumar Nirmal briefly mentioned how the meeting was started, how it went on and how the conclusion and recommendations were drawn from the meeting for the formulation of animal breeding policies and strategies for the improvement of indigenous animal breeds of the SAARC region. He also thanked the chief guest, special guests, guests and all the participants whose efforts resulted to make the meeting a grand success. At the end, Dr. Bimal Kumar Nirmal wished for the safe journey back home of all the guests and participants and finally closed the consultation meeting. All the recommendations came from the group works and finalized from the plenary discussion have been placed in the annexes of the proceeding.
164 Recommendations of the Consultation Meeting
Recommendations of the Consultation Meeting
General Consideration for Animal Breeding Policies and Strategies Review/update/develop and implement national breeding policy and strategy with clear objective for short, medium and long term for each country taking into consideration of ecology/feeding/farming system; Identification, characterization (phenotypic and genotypic) and registration (patenting) of potential indigenous animal genetic resources; Development of national recording system for genetic evaluation to undertake selective breeding and crossbreeding; Develop at least one live breeding infrastructure (nucleus, multipliers and commercial) for each species; Development of long term breeding and genetic up-gradation programme with expertise development;
General Outlines for Breeding Policies and Strategies of Large and Small Ruminants (Cattle, Buffaloes, Sheep and Goat) A. General breeding policies: It may be Selective breeding of indigenous breeds in the breeding tract Maintaining the purity of the source promising well adapted breeds Grading up of non-descript populations Crossbreeding of non-descript populations Conservation of indigenous well adapted breeds Emphasis on research and development on genetic improvement of indigenous breeds B. General breeding strategies: It may be Selective breeding of indigenous breeds in the breeding tract: It can be achieved by a. Production of high genetic merit (HGM) disease free breeding male b. Development of field performance recording system c. Pedigree selection program (PS) d. Progeny testing program (PTP) e. Establishment of bull mother farm (Public Private Partnership) in their respective home tract
165 Recommendations of the Consultation Meeting f. Adoption of assisted reproductive technology (ART) by using ET and MOET g. To consider high genetic merit (HGM) disease free breeding male for semen production h. Increase artificial insemination (AI) coverage i. Genomic selection Maintaining the purity of the source promising well adapted breeds: It can be achieved by a. Exchange of germplasm (live animals, semen and embryos) b. Increase variation in the population c. Concept of nucleus herd, multiplier herd, beneficiary herd (crossbreds) formation d. Production of high genetic merit (HGM) disease free breeding male e. Multi-location bull mother farm (Public Private Partnership) f. Assisted reproductive technology (ART) by using ET and MOET g. High genetic merit (HGM) disease free bulls for semen production h. Increase AI coverage Grading up of non-descript populations: It can be done by a. High genetic merit (HGM) disease free breeding male for semen production b. Increase AI coverage c. Breeding male production program (Bull produced through scientific breeding programme) d. Semen production from high genetic merit (HGM) disease free bulls (PTP, PS, ETT) Cross breeding of non-descript populations a. Using imported semen (suitable breeds) b. Imported embryos c. Bulls Conservation of indigenous well adapted breeds a. In situ conservation -Bull mother farm (farmers’ level) b. Ex situ conservation -Cryopreservation c. Using advanced technology for genetic improvement
166 Recommendations of the Consultation Meeting
-Assisted reproductive technology (ART) through ET & MOET -Molecular techniques (MAS) Emphasis on research and development on genetic improvement of indigenous breeds -National research centre (national level) and satellite research centres (specific regional level) in the home-tract and outreach centres (farmers’ level)
General Outlines for Poultry Breeding Policies and Strategies A. Poultry breeding policies and strategies Upgrading indigenous breeds through selective breeding Maintaining the purity of the exotic breed (New Hampshire, Black Austrolop, Giriraja or any suitable exotic breeds) through continuous importation of grand parent stock (GPS), parent stock (PS) on station Promoting rural backyard poultry using low input birds (Sakini, Pwankhulte or any other) Encouragement of contract farming Grading up of non-descript population –intervention on station –Distribution of up-graded breeds to farmers Crossbreeding of non-descript population by using -local potential breeds -exotic breeds Conservation of well adapted indigenous breeds Emphasis on research and development on genetic improvement of poultry –Establishment of poultry breeding farms (central and regional)
Yak and Mithun General breeding policies and strategies Selective breeding for genetic up-gradation of desired traits (milk production, meat production, body weight gain, increased reproduction efficiency) Avoid inbreeding through exchange of germplasm Production of high genetic merit (HGM) disease free bulls Establishment of bull mother farm (Public Private Partnership) in their respective home tract
167 Recommendations of the Consultation Meeting
Adoption of assisted productive technology (ART) by ET and MOET Introduction of semen freezing technology and AI Facilitation of semen station Emphasis on research and development on genetic improvement of indigenous breeds national yak/ mithun research centre (national level) and satellite research centres (specific regional level) and outreach centres (farmers’ level)
Pig: Review/develop the breeding policy/structure for genetic improvement of pure pig breeds for each country Develop laboratory facility to use frozen semen from abroad in short term and establish frozen semen production laboratory for long term Follow international identification and recording system for pig Establish fresh boar semen laboratory for semen collection, evaluation, processing and storage Develop specific crossbreeding program for quality pork production and marketing with establishment of small farmers group based slaughter house Prioritize pig and pork production as an industrial commodity to meet the demand of meat for fast growing urbanized population in the SAARC countries Long term breeding and genetic development program with expertise development in genetics and breeding for a longer period of time Establishment of community based indigenous pig breeding farm for pure breed system as an agro-tourism basis Use indigenous breed of pig for producing crossbred commercial pig breed as sire terminal line Promote community based access and benefit sharing for maintaining indigenous breed of pig Breeding, production and marketing of lean pork utilizing indigenous breed of pig in the breeding structure
168 List of the Participants
List of the Participants
Ms. Zeenat Sultana Upazilla Livestock Officer Department of Livestock Services Dhaka-1215, Bangladesh Email: [email protected] Mr. Jigme Wangdi Principal Production Officer Department of Livestock Ministry of Agriculture and Forests Royal Government of Bhutan Email: [email protected] Dr. Bhushan Tyagi Assistant Commissioner Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Government of India Email: [email protected] Mr. Rudra Prasad Poudel Chief National livestock breeding centre Department of Livestock Services Pokhara, Nepal Email: [email protected] Dr. Khalid Ashfaque Assistant Animal Husbandry Commissioner Ministry of National Food Security and Research Islamabad, Pakistan Email: [email protected] Dr. P. G. Seneviratne Veterinary Surgeon Department of animal Production and Health Kandy, Sri Lanka Email: [email protected]
169 List of the Participants
Dr. H. Rahman Regional Representative for South Asia International Livestock Research Institute New Delhi, India Email: [email protected] Dr. S. M. Bokhtiar Director SAARC Agriculture Centre Dhaka, Bangladesh Email: [email protected] Dr. Md. Nure Alam Siddiky Senior Program Officer SAARC Agriculture Centre Dhaka, Bangladesh Email: [email protected] Dr. Bhumi Nand Devkota Coordinator, Post Graduate Program Agriculture and Forestry University Chitwan, Nepal Email: [email protected] Dr. Bimal Kumar Nirmal Director General Department of Livestock Services Nepal Email: [email protected] Dr. Kedar Raj Pandey Senior Veterinary Officer Regional Veterinary Laboratory Pokhara Email: [email protected] Dr. Kiran Pandey Livestock Development Officer Department of Livestock Services Nepal Email: [email protected]
170 List of the Participants
Dr. Lok Nath Paudel Senior Livestock Development Officer District Livestock Services Office Arghankhanchi, Nepal Email: [email protected] Dr. Nanda Prasad Shrestha Ex. Executive director Nepal Agriculture Research Center Adjunct Professor, HICAST Email: [email protected] Dr. Neena Amatya Gorkhali Senior Scientist Nepal Animal Sciences Research Institute, Nepal Email: [email protected] Dr. Prerana (Bhattarai) Sedai Senior Veterinary Officer Department of Livestock Services, Lalitpur Email: [email protected] Mr. Raju Kadel Center Chief Goat Research Center, NARC Bandipur, Tanahu Email: [email protected] Mr. Sambhu Pandey Senior Livestock Development Officer Livestock Development Farm, Pokhara Email: [email protected] Mr. Shiva Nath Mahato Senior Livestock Development Officer District Livestock Services Office, Sunsari Email: [email protected] Dr. Shova Sharma Livestock Development Officer National Livestock Breeding Center Pokhara Email: [email protected]
171 List of the Participants
Dr. Subash Chandra Chaudhary Livestock Development Officer National Livestock Breeding Center Pokhara Email: [email protected] Dr. Mahendra Malla Livestock Development Officer District Livestock Services Offices Pokhara Email: [email protected] Dr. Ganesh K.C. Veterinary Officer District Livestock Services Offices Pokhara Email: [email protected]
172