Leh: A special awareness camp focused on the conservation of indigenous livestock breeds was held on August 5, 2025, in Lamayuru and Kanji villages of Khaltse Sub Division.
The event was organized by the Sheep Husbandry Department, Leh, in collaboration with the ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR), Karnal.
The camp aimed to educate local herders on preserving native breeds like Malra and Malluk, which are well-suited to Ladakh’s unique environment and vital for sustainable livelihoods.
A large number of livestock herders from Lamayuru, Kanji, Wanla, and Fotoksar villages attended the event.
The camp saw participation from key experts including Dr. Manish Mukesh and Dr. Karan Veer Singh (Principal Scientists), Dr. Mahesh Dige (Senior Scientist), and officials from the Sheep Husbandry Department—Dr. Tsewang Morup (District Officer, Leh) and Dr. Tsewang Dolma (Block Officer, Khaltse). Village Nambardar Sh. Tsering Lamchung also attended the programme.
Speaking at the camp, Dr. Manish Mukesh outlined NBAGR’s vision to make Ladakh the first UT in India with all indigenous livestock breeds registered, thereby eliminating non-descript breeds. He informed that the process to characterize and register Malra and Malluk breeds is already underway and expected to conclude by the end of 2025. Once registered, central government schemes for breed conservation and improvement will be introduced, bringing long-term benefits to local herders.
Dr. Tsewang Morup emphasized that indigenous breeds not only support the local economy by providing milk, meat, wool, and hides, but also play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance in high-altitude areas like Ladakh.
The session ended with the distribution of livestock feed and first-aid kits to participating herders. The village Nambardar expressed heartfelt gratitude to the team of scientists and the Sheep Husbandry Department for bringing such a valuable initiative to the grassroots level.
The programme marks an important step toward safeguarding Ladakh’s livestock heritage while empowering its herding communities.
