RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh’s native buffalo has become the latest breed to be recognized under the National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR).Union agriculture minister Radha Mohan Singh handed over the registration certificate to Kamdhenu University vice-chancellor NP Dakshinkar and the university’s animal genetic and breeding department HOD professor Dr Mohan Singh in Delhi recently.Speaking to TOI, Dr Mohan Singh said that out of the total 13.5 lakh buffaloes in Chhattisgarh, around 90 per cent of them are nondescript — which are not classified under any breed. India has 15 registered buffalo breeds while Chhattisgarh had none so far.For the recognition process , studies were made on physical characteristics, reproduction and production performance, milk qualities, adaptability etc of buffaloes. Blood samples were collected for the genetic studies at DNA level and their related studies were studied with respect to the other existing buffalo breeds. On basis of this study, application was submitted for registration of the breed, duly forwarded by the state government to NBAGR, which is the registering body. After fulfilling all the requirements for registration, NBAGR decided to register the breed.Chhattisgarhi buffaloes are found in the central plains and northern hilly terrains of the state. This is a medium sized breed with black-brown coat and sickle shaped horns. The average milk production is around five litres per day with 7.5 per cent fat, 4.9 per cent lactose and 3.9 per cent protein.

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