NATIONAL BUREAU OF ANIMAL GENETIC RESOURCES

The Manda buffalo has been recognised as the 19th unique breed of buffaloes found in India by the National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR).
Four breeds of cattle – Binjharpuri, Motu, Ghumusari and Khariar – and two breeds of buffalo – Chilika and Kalahandi – and one breed of sheep, Kendrapada, have already received NBAGR recognition.

Important points:

They are found in the Eastern Ghats and plateau of Koraput region of Odisha.
The small, sturdy buffaloes are used for ploughing in their native habitat.
These buffaloes have ash grey and grey coats with copper-coloured hair. Some animals are silver white in colour.
The Manda are resistant to parasitic infections, less prone to diseases and can live, produce and reproduce at low or nil input systems.
Significance of Recognition:
The state and the Centre will make efforts to conserve this unique buffalo genetic resource of Odisha and enhance their productivity through breeding strategy.
The governments will help in marketing the produce- milk, curd and ghee at a premium price resulting in the improvement of the livelihood of the stakeholders in the native tract.
Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal (ICAR-NBAGR) is the nodal agency for the registration of newly identified germplasm of livestock and poultry of the country.
Its mandate includes Identification, Evaluation, Characterization, Conservation and sustainable Utilization of Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resources.

SOURCE: THE HINDU,THE ECONOMIC TIMES,MINT

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