Manda buffalo gets ‘unique breed’ tag

• Integrity Education, Delhi
• 07, Sep 2021

• The National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR) has recognised the Manda buffalo as the 19th unique breed of buffaloes found in India.
• Manda buffalo is found in the Eastern Ghats and plateau of Koraput region of Odisha
• The Manda are resistant to parasitic infections, less prone to diseases and can reproduce at low or nil input systems.
• These buffaloes have ash grey and grey coat with copper-coloured hair.
• Lower part of legs of the breed is also light in colour with copper colour hair at knee

How will the national recognition help ?

• With the national recognition, efforts will be made by the Centre and State for conservation of the unique buffalo genetic resource.
• Steps will be taken to enhance their productivity through breeding strategy.
• The produce from the breed will also be made available at premium price to improve livelihood of the stakeholders in the native tract.

Other recognised Breeds from Odisha
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.