T.N. goat and sheep breeding policy advocates for nucleus herd in each district, cooperative societies for rearers

Key Points

1. Tamil Nadu Government unveiled the Goat & Sheep Breeding Policy.
2. The policy advocates for an open nucleus breeding system for goats.
3. Selective breeding within the breed with superior rams for sheep is promoted.
4. The policy aims to conserve local breeds and explore registration in ICAR-NBAGR.
5. Artificial Insemination (AI) will be introduced through pilot projects.
6. Sheep population in Tamil Nadu is 45 lakh (20th Livestock Census).
7. Goat population in Tamil Nadu is 98 lakh (20th Livestock Census).
8. Recognised sheep breeds include Mecheri, Kilakarisal, Vembur, Coimbatore, Madras Red, Ramnad White, Katchaikatty Black, Nilgiri, Tiruchi Black and Chevaadu.
9. Recognised goat breeds include Kanni Adu, Kodi Adu and Salem Black.