The Telangana State is working to protect the environment, but they are struggling to document livestock. This lack of records makes it difficult to monitor and conserve the State’s livestock resources. One breed of cattle, called ‘Poda Thurupu,’ was recognized in January 2020, but no further identification has occurred since then. This breed is mostly found around Amrabad in Nagarkurnool district. Another breed, called ‘Vandhara,’ has been documented by Watershed Support Services and Activities Network (WASSAN), and there are approximately 10,657 of them in the State. These cattle are well-suited for agriculture and adapted to the local climate. There are also other indigenous goats found in Kerameri village in Adilabad district that need to be documented by the government.
A retired professor from PV Narasimha Rao Telangana Veterinary University stated that there are many indigenous livestock resources in the State that require immediate attention from the government to protect them. Telangana has many breeds spread across the region, such as sheep in Achampet, buffaloes in Adilabad to Nagpur border, and goats and sheep in Mahbubnagar known for prolificacy. The diversified indigenous livestock must be studied, documented, characterized, and efforts must be made to register the breed.
Livestock biodiversity is being neglected, receiving insufficient attention in both mainstream media coverage and academic curriculum. The conservation of indigenous breeds is notably absent from the teachings in veterinary colleges, indicating a lack of focus on preserving these valuable genetic resources. Unfortunately, nearly 90 percent of India’s cattle breeds are under such perilous circumstances. Urgent action is required from the government to address this issue and implement measures for their protection.
