Why in News?
Recently, The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has registered 16 new indigenous breeds, strengthening efforts to document, conserve and sustainably use India’s animal genetic resources. The registrations were recommended at the 14th meeting of ICAR’s Breed Registration Committee, held in New Delhi on 7 August 2026.
What are the 16 newly registered indigenous breeds?
The 16 breeds cover nine species across 13 States and one Union Territory:
- Cattle: Koppal (Karnataka), Mahakaushali (Madhya Pradesh), Periyar (Kerala), Umarda (Maharashtra)
- Buffalo: Gomanchali (Goa)
- Goat: Battisi (Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh), Totapuri (Rajasthan)
- Sheep: Asomi (Assam), Kow Debar (Uttarakhand), Madgyal (Maharashtra and Karnataka), Seemanchali (Bihar)
- Donkey: Braj (Uttar Pradesh)
- Horse/Pony: Kashmiri (Jammu & Kashmir)
- Pig: Nagal (Nagaland)
- Yak: Sikkimese (Sikkim)
- Dog: Kombai (Tamil Nadu)
Each breed has been assigned a unique accession number by ICAR-NBAGR, creating an official scientific record.
Why is ICAR's Breed Registration Important?
Breed registration supports the documentation, conservation and sustainable utilization of indigenous animal genetic resources. Locally adapted breeds may possess valuable traits such as climate adaptability, disease tolerance and suitability for low-input farming.
Such genetic diversity can also support rural livelihoods, selective breeding, climate resilience and future livestock improvement.
What is ICAR?
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) was established on 16 July 1929 and is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India. It is the apex organization for planning, guiding and managing research and education in agriculture, horticulture, fisheries and animal sciences.
Key Mandate of ICAR-
ICAR's major responsibilities include:
- Research and Extension: Promoting innovation and sustainable agricultural development through a nationwide network, including 700+ Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs).
- Technology Generation: Developing productive and climate-resilient technologies and crop varieties to strengthen food security.
- Education: Setting standards for higher agricultural education and accrediting institutions.
- Capacity Building: Connecting scientific research with farmers and strengthening field-level agricultural knowledge.
Role of ICAR-NBAGR-
The ICAR–National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR), Karnal, is the nodal institution for breed registration in India. It scientifically characterizes animal populations and maintains official breed records.
India's Registered Breed Base Reaches 262-
With the latest additions, ICAR-NBAGR's registered breed base has reached 262, including 258 indigenous and four synthetic breeds. This reflects the continuing effort to identify and scientifically document India's diverse animal populations.
Climate Resilience and Conservation:
Indigenous breeds can be valuable under changing climatic conditions because many are adapted to local heat, disease and environmental stresses. Conserving them maintains genetic options for future breeding and sustainable livestock production.
Conclusion:
The registration of 16 new indigenous breeds marks an important step in protecting India's animal genetic heritage. From Koppal cattle and Madgyal sheep to the Sikkimese yak, Nagal pig, Kashmiri pony and Kombai dog, the new additions showcase India's extraordinary biological diversity. Their conservation can contribute to biodiversity, climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, rural livelihoods and long-term food security.
