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Review Papers | Animal Science | India | Volume 12 Issue 12, December 2023 | Rating: 5.8 / 10
Buffalo Genetic Resources in Nepal: Review
Maheshwar Dahal [2] | Anjay Kumar Sah [2]
Abstract: Buffaloes are the major genetic resources commodity in Nepal having significant contribution in food and nutrition security, employment and income of the marginalized as well as commercial farmers. According to Nepalese statistical information on agriculture of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, Nepal holds 5.13 million buffalo population producing 194 thousand metric ton meat and 1.46 million metric ton fresh milk production which contributes 4.23 % and 7.28 % respectively in agriculture gross domestic product of Nepal. Data, figures and reports from Ministry of Livestock and agricultural development, department of livestock services, Nepal agricultural Research Council, and other government organizations are analyzed to review this paper with objective to describe the production and productivity potential trend and significance of buffalo genetic resource in Nepal. This paper review on the existing breeds, their breeding system, production system, population status, and way forward to increase the production and productivity of buffaloes. Due to prohibition of cattle slaughter in Nepal, buffalo remains an important meat animal and hence good source of animal protein. It is also known for its sturdiness and draught power where buffalo males extensively are used for draught and meat purposes. Findings reveled that Nepal is endowed with three indigenous buffalo genetic resources namely Lime, Parkote and Gaddi whose purity is declining due to cross breeding with Murrah breed and hence exotic crossbred Murrah breed is prevalent in large number. To improve the buffalo production and productivity, country is found to adopt the selection tools, assisted reproductive technologies and have cross breeding program with the Murrah to upgrade the un - descript native buffalo production.
Keywords: Buffaloes, genetic resources, meat production, milk production
Edition: Volume 12 Issue 12, December 2023,
Pages: 1715 - 1719