The Manda buffalo, a species of buffalo found in the hill ranges of eastern Ghats and plateau of Koraput region of Odisha, has been recognised as a breed at the national level.
The Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR)-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR) has recognised this breed after a detailed study.
The buffalo species, having ash grey and grey coat with copper-coloured hair, received accession number ‘India_Buffalo_1500_Manda_01019’ to become the 19th recognized buffalo breed in India.
Also Read
“I am pleased to inform you that ICAR Breed Registration Committee in its meeting held on August 16, 2021 has approved the registration of Manda buffalo as a breed,” BP Mishra, Director of ICAR-NBAGR stated in a letter written to the director of Odisha Animan Husbandry and Veterinary Services Department.
According to sources, the State Animal Husbandry Department and Odisha University Of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) have jointly studied the germplasm of the buffalo. This rare species of buffalo is resistant to parasitic infections. They are less prone to diseases due to high immunity. Similarly, the reproduction capacity of this species of buffalo is very good.
Pravat Majhi, Livestock Inspector who worked with the survey team, said, “Manda buffalo is seen in Malkangiri, Nabarangpur and Koraput of undivided Koraput district. From 2005 to 2012, efforts were made by various organisations, NGOs and government agencies to get recognition for the breed. We collected blood samples of all buffalos of this breed and sent them to Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) and OUAT.”
“Now we are happy that the buffalo breed has received national recognition. It is a matter of great pride for Koraput,” he added.